← Search & browse all drugs
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › ANTIHISTAMINES FOR SYSTEMIC USE › ANTIHISTAMINES FOR SYSTEMIC USE › Piperazine derivatives
cetirizine
R06AE07
Forms & Strengths
- Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg
- Chewable Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg
- Syrup: 5 mg/5 mL (1 mg/mL)
- Capsule: 10 mg
Adult Dosing
- Allergic rhinitis and urticaria: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily
- Renal impairment (CrCl 11-31 mL/min): 5 mg once daily
- Renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min): 5 mg every 2 days
- Hepatic impairment: 5 mg once daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 6 months to 2 years: 2.5 mg orally once daily
- Children 2 to 5 years: 2.5 mg orally once daily; may increase to 5 mg once daily (or 2.5 mg every 12 hours)
- Children 6 years and older: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily
Indications
- Perennial allergic rhinitis
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Chronic idiopathic urticaria
Mechanism of Action
- Selective, peripheral H1-receptor antagonist
- Inhibits histamine-mediated early-phase allergic reactions
- Reduces migration of inflammatory cells and suppresses release of mediators in later-phase allergic response
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any component of the formulation
- Severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min) or end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis
Adverse Reactions
- Somnolence
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Pharyngitis
- Dizziness
Drug Interactions
- CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, opioids, sedatives, hypnotics): May potentiate central nervous system depression
- Theophylline: Decreases clearance of cetirizine, potentially leading to increased adverse effects
- Anticholinergic agents: May enhance additive anticholinergic adverse effects
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use