Cetirizine 10mg Tablets

Cetirizine, a piperazine derivative, is a potent and selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It inhibits the effects of histamine on H1-receptors, thereby reducing symptoms associated with allergic reactions (e.g., sneezing, rhinorrhea, pruritus, urticaria). It has minimal anticholinergic or antiserotonergic activity and does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to less sedation compared to first-generation antihistamines.

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention, as they may be signs of a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Other Possible Side Effects
While not everyone experiences side effects, it's essential to be aware of the potential ones. If you're bothered by any of the following side effects or if they don't go away, contact your doctor for advice:
- For all patients taking this medication:
- Drowsiness
- Feeling tired or weak
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty sleeping
- For children:
- Headache
- Stomach pain

Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or through their website at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This is crucial because this medication may interact with other drugs or exacerbate existing health problems.
* Any health issues you are experiencing, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.

To ensure your safety, it is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Until you understand how this drug affects you, avoid operating a vehicle and engaging in other activities that require your full attention.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.

To minimize potential risks, refrain from consuming alcohol while using this medication. Before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that may cause drowsiness, consult with your doctor to discuss potential interactions.

If you are 65 years or older, exercise caution when taking this medication, as you may be more susceptible to experiencing side effects.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is necessary to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.

• CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, opioids): May cause additive CNS depression (drowsiness, dizziness).

• Theophylline: A small decrease in cetirizine clearance has been observed, but is not clinically significant.

• Efficacy of symptom relief (e.g., reduction in sneezing, runny nose, itching, hives)
• Adverse effects, particularly drowsiness or sedation
• Paradoxical excitation (rare, especially in children)

Cetirizine is generally considered a preferred antihistamine for use during pregnancy due to its Category B classification and extensive human data showing no increased risk of major birth defects. However, use only if clearly needed and after consulting a healthcare provider.

Cetirizine is excreted into breast milk. While the amount is small, it may cause drowsiness or irritability in the infant. It may also decrease milk supply. Use with caution, especially in newborns or premature infants. Consider alternative antihistamines or monitor the infant for adverse effects.

Dosing must be carefully adjusted by age and weight, especially in infants and young children, due to differences in metabolism and potential for increased sensitivity to sedative effects. Not recommended for infants under 6 months without medical supervision.

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the sedative effects and may have age-related decreases in renal function. A lower starting dose (e.g., 5 mg once daily) is recommended, especially if renal impairment is present. Monitor for increased drowsiness or confusion.

• Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine, generally less sedating than first-generation agents like diphenhydramine, but drowsiness can still occur, especially at higher doses or in sensitive individuals.
• Take cetirizine in the evening if drowsiness is a concern, as its effects last for 24 hours.
• It is effective for both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, as well as chronic idiopathic urticaria.
• Patients with renal impairment require dose adjustment due to its primary renal excretion.
• Avoid concurrent use with alcohol or other CNS depressants due to additive sedative effects.

• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• Desloratadine (Clarinex)
• Azelastine (nasal spray)
• Olopatadine (nasal spray/eye drops)
• Corticosteroid nasal sprays (e.g., fluticasone, mometasone)

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.