Cetirizine:
Antihistamine for
Allergy Relief
Second-generation antihistamine. Treats allergies and chronic urticaria.
Administration and Dosage
1 Adults and Children 6+
10 mg daily for allergic rhinitis.
2 Children 2-5 Years
2.5-5 mg once daily.
3 Chronic Urticaria
5-10 mg once daily for adults.
Classification and Indications
Pharmacological Therapeutic Indications
Second-generation antihistamine. Allergy medication. Allergy symptoms, chronic urticaria,
allergic skin reactions.
Mechanism of Action
H1 Receptor Blockade
1 Selectively antagonizes H1 histamine receptors.
Vascular Permeability
2 Reduces blood vessel permeability, decreasing swelling.
CNS Effects
3 Less likely to cross blood-brain barrier.
Adverse Effects
CNS GI Respiratory Other
Somnolence, sedation. Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal Bronchospasm, pharyngitis. Fever, photosensitivity, rash,
pain, constipation. myalgia, arthralgia,
angioedema.
Nursing Assessment
1 History 2 Monitoring
Assess patient's allergy Check for symptom relief
history and specific and potential side effects.
symptoms.
3 Safety
Minimize drowsiness risks and other side effects.
Medication Administration
Timing Consistency
Administer with or without Emphasize importance of
food, morning or evening. regular dosing for optimal
results.
Precautions Monitoring
Advise avoiding alcohol and Watch for drowsiness, dry
CNS depressants. mouth, headache, fatigue.
Patient Education
Dosing Timing Side Effects Precaution
Once daily Consistent Report Avoid driving
time severe initially
symptoms
