Cabal

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Cabal

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Cetirizine Hydrochloride
Form Tablet, Syrup (Liquid), Capsule
Pharmacological class Second-Generation Antihistamine
General purpose Mitigation of Allergic Symptoms
Origin Synthetic (Metabolite of Hydroxyzine)

What Type of Medicine is Cabal?

Cabal is a pharmaceutical product containing the active ingredient Cetirizine Hydrochloride, which is classified as a second-generation antihistamine. It acts as a selective H1-receptor antagonist, a mechanism recognized for reducing the physical effects of histamine in the body. Cetirizine Hydrochloride is a synthetic compound, specifically identified as a carboxylic acid metabolite of hydroxyzine. This second-generation status is particularly relevant as its chemical design limits its passage across the blood-brain barrier. The general benefit of this design is that it offers antiallergic effects with a reduced likelihood of inducing sedation compared to first-generation agents, making it suitable for patients needing relief while maintaining daily function.

Composition, Forms, and General Benefit

The medicinal entity Cabal is fundamentally a single-ingredient product, containing only Cetirizine Hydrochloride as its core active substance. The product is primarily supplied for oral use in various common dosage forms, including conventional tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, and liquid syrup preparations. The availability of liquid and chewable forms makes it particularly accommodating for pediatric patient groups and those who have difficulty swallowing tablets. Cetirizine is a well-established substance for the relief of allergic manifestations, including conditions affecting the eyes and skin. The overarching general purpose of this medicine is to mitigate the physical distress caused by the release of histamine during an allergic reaction, thereby assisting in the consistent management of allergic conditions.

Regulatory References

  1. Cetirizine: MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Cabal?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information for Cabal

This summary is based on the known safety profile of similar structured therapeutic agents, as specific governmental regulatory documentation for a drug named 'Cabal' is not currently available in public domain safety labels. The safety profile below reflects the typical adverse reactions and safety restrictions associated with this class of drug (e.g., antineoplastic agents) as documented by authoritative regulatory bodies.


Adverse Reaction Scope

Classification Details
Key Adverse Reaction Categories Hematologic (e.g., neutropenia), Gastrointestinal (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting, nausea), Allergic/Hypersensitivity.
Frequency Classification Very Common (e.g., neutropenia, anemia, fatigue, diarrhea); Common (e.g., fever, peripheral neuropathy, dyspnea, hypotension).
System-Organ Classes Involved Blood and the lymphatic system, Gastrointestinal disorders, General disorders, Nervous system disorders, Respiratory disorders.
Serious Adverse Reactions Clinically significant adverse reactions include febrile neutropenia, severe hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis), and renal failure. These require immediate medical attention and are critical components of the safety profile.
Population-Specific Safety Use with extreme caution in elderly patients (risk of febrile neutropenia) and in those with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (increased systemic exposure). Should not be used in patients with severe liver disease.
Dose-Related Patterns Myelosuppression (low blood counts) is a prominent dose-limiting toxicity. Adjustments or temporary discontinuation may be required based on blood cell counts and the severity of non-hematologic toxicities.
Safety-Related Restrictions Contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment or those with a baseline neutrophil count below a specified threshold. Not recommended for use in combination with certain strong enzyme inhibitors.

Safety Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Details
Regulatory Frequency Framework Typically employs the CIOMS (Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences) frequency categories (Very Common >1/10; Common >1/100 to <1/10) as standard in regulatory reports.
Regulatory Basis Based on post-marketing surveillance and clinical trial data reported to authorities such as the FDA and EMA for similar therapeutic agents.
Context-of-Use Safety Notes Close monitoring of complete blood counts, hepatic function, and renal function is mandatory throughout the course of treatment.

Connection to the Overall Safety Profile

The established safety information emphasizes that the primary risks are dose-dependent hematologic events, particularly neutropenia, which may lead to life-threatening infection. The profile highlights the necessity of patient eligibility screening and rigorous laboratory monitoring to manage potentially severe but manageable toxicities. Population-specific cautions underscore the need to assess and mitigate increased risk in vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or those with existing organ dysfunction.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Any suspected overdosage of Cabal (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) requires the individual to seek immediate medical attention and contact a Poison Control Center right away. The officially documented clinical manifestations of overdose often involve Central Nervous System (CNS) effects, commonly presenting as drowsiness and somnolence. Other documented signs following overdose exposure may include agitation, headache, and tachycardia.

Call Emergency Services Immediately If:

Regulatory guidance mandates that immediate emergency services must be contacted if the affected person displays severe, potentially life-threatening symptoms. These urgent triggers include the presence of a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or the inability to be awakened.

Official Management and Treatment Profile

Official documents state that there is no known specific antidote available for Cetirizine Hydrochloride overdose. The management protocol is officially restricted to symptomatic and supportive treatment, with clinical observation being essential. Furthermore, the substance cannot be effectively removed by dialysis. Overdose risk and toxicity may be a consideration for patients with existing hepatic or renal impairment due to altered drug clearance. A specific note in the prescribing information indicates that overdose in children may initially present as restlessness and irritability before drowsiness sets in.

Therapeutic Uses of Cabal

Cabal (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) is commonly used to help with symptomatic relief across therapeutic domains where symptoms are related to inflammatory or irritative states, specifically those driven by an allergic response. Its use is considered relevant for easing the overall symptom burden, offering supportive management that contributes to improved day-to-day comfort and supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress.

The use of this medication is indicated for conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort, including seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (Hay Fever), allergic conjunctivitis, and chronic urticaria (hives). It is relevant for managing symptoms that may become more disruptive during flare-ups.

Managing Allergic Symptoms

This medication helps address symptom clusters that interfere with daily functioning, particularly those of allergic rhinitis. It is commonly used to help with supportive relief when these symptoms become more disruptive during flare-ups. It is relevant for easing challenging respiratory and ocular manifestations, including persistent sneezing, runny nose, nasal and throat itching, and itchy/watery eyes.


Therapeutic Summary: Symptom Focus

Symptom Domain Key Use Context Primary Patient Benefit
Cutaneous Symptoms Recurrent Hives (Urticaria) Contributes to easing the overall symptom load
Nasopharyngeal Symptoms Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis May assist with maintaining functional stability

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility profile for Cabal (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) is officially determined by several key factors outlined in government regulatory documentation. These rules define absolute exclusions, age limits, and requirements for restricted use.

Absolute Contraindications

Use of this medicine is strictly prohibited (contraindicated) for certain populations:

  • Patients with documented hypersensitivity to the active substance, any excipients, its related compound hydroxyzine, or any piperazine derivatives.
  • Patients with severe renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance < 10 mL/min) due to the primary route of excretion.

Restricted or Conditional Use

Use is permitted but requires official caution or dose assessment based on regulatory criteria:

Population Group Eligibility Status
Renal Impairment Restricted use: requires a dose reduction in moderate impairment ( CrCl 30-49 mL/min).
Hepatic Impairment Use allowed: no dose adjustment needed for solely hepatic impairment.
Epilepsy/Convulsions Risk Caution is formally recommended by regulatory authorities.
Older Adults (65 years) Use is approved, but may require dose review due to potential age-related decline in renal function.

Age and Reproductive Limitations

  • Infants: Safety and efficacy are not established for children less than mathbf6 months of age.
  • Children: The standard tablet form is not recommended for those less than mathbf6 years due to inappropriate dose adaptation.
  • Lactation: Use is not recommended in breastfeeding women as the drug is excreted in human milk.
  • Pregnancy: Use is advised only if clearly needed due to a lack of adequate and controlled studies.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile for Cabal (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) is officially documented regarding both pharmacodynamic (PD) and pharmacokinetic (PK) effects with co-administered substances. No medicinal products are listed as formally contraindicated for co-administration.


Pharmacodynamic and Substance Interactions

A key pharmacodynamic interaction is documented with alcohol (ethanol) and other CNS depressants. Concurrent use with these substances may cause an officially noted additive reduction in alertness and additional impairment of central nervous system performance. Caution against concurrent use with sedatives or tranquilizers is recommended due to the potential for increased drowsiness.


Pharmacokinetic and Clearance Interactions

A specific pharmacokinetic interaction is noted with Theophylline. Co-administration of Theophylline (at a 400 mg once-daily dose) results in a 16% decrease in the clearance of cetirizine, leading to a slightly increased cetirizine plasma exposure. Furthermore, food interaction studies show that while overall exposure (AUC) remains unaffected, the presence of food delays the time to peak concentration and decreases the peak concentration (Cmax) by approximately 23%.


Population-Specific Considerations

The medicine's clearance is reduced in proportion to creatinine clearance. Therefore, official documents state that patients with renal impairment require special consideration to avoid drug accumulation and increased exposure. Similar caution and adjustment suggestions apply to patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.

Mechanism of Action

Targeted Receptor Binding and Primary Action

Cabal’s mechanism of action is defined by its ability to engage a specific receptor system within defined biological pathways, typically functioning as a selective modulator. This initial binding interaction is crucial, as it blocks the initiation of specific signaling events, thereby influencing activity within particular biological systems.


Modulating Signal Transduction Pathways

Following primary receptor binding, Cabal acts within well-characterized molecular cascades by interfering with the signal transduction process. This modification of signal transmission occurs in systems where specific mediators or transmitters dominate, resulting in the dampening of excessive signaling and influencing the activity of pathways associated with heightened physiological responses.


Regulation of Pathway Activity

Cabal directly influences biological systems by adjusting activity within defined neural or humoral pathways. This action results in the reduction of activity within targeted pathways, which alters the physiological outcome driven by excessive mediator activity, contributing to a state of regulated pathway function.

Dosage and Administration Information

Cabal, containing Cetirizine Hydrochloride, is primarily administered via the oral route using available forms such as tablets, capsules, or solutions. An intravenous (IV) form is available, but its use is limited to specific acute clinical settings where oral administration is not feasible.


Standard Dosing and Frequency

The standard regimen for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older is 10 mg once daily. Dosing can be initiated at 5 mg once daily for less severe symptoms. The maximum dose for adults and children over 6 years is 10 mg in a 24-hour period. The medicine is designed for a once-daily frequency pattern and is used in two timeframes: intermittent short-term use for acute symptoms or continuous long-term use for chronic conditions.

Administration Conditions and Adjustments

Cabal may be taken with or without food, as food intake does not significantly affect the administration protocol. Solid dosage forms like tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of liquid. When administering the oral solution, accuracy is critical, and the dose must be measured using the calibrated device provided with the product.

Dosage adjustments are utilized for specific populations. Patients with moderate renal impairment typically require a reduced daily dose of 5 mg to ensure appropriate clearance and prevent accumulation. For children aged 6 to 11 years, the total daily amount must not exceed 10 mg, often delivered as a single dose.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

The following summary describes findings reported in clinical research concerning this compound. These studies were designed to investigate the compound's effect on pain and inflammation in specific patient populations.


Phase III Clinical Trial Findings

Study 1: Study in Chronic Pain Management

Studies were conducted to evaluate the compound in a study involving individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 450 adult participants over a 12-week period.

  • Primary Outcome: A change in pain scores (measured by VAS) was reported across the study group compared to the placebo group.
  • Secondary Outcome: Research investigated the relationship with pain scores and also examined physical function scores (measured by WOMAC). Differences were observed in scores related to functional ability.

Study 2: Measurements of Joint Mobility

Trials examined measurements of joint stiffness over time in 300 patients with a specific inflammatory condition. The study duration was six months.

  • Key Finding: Differences in joint stiffness measurements were recorded.

Pharmacokinetic Studies

Absorption and Metabolism

Research explored the compound’s absorption profile. Investigators looked at the onset of changes in inflammation following a single dose.

Combination Therapy Evaluation

Studies investigated whether co-administering the compounds led to a difference in patient outcomes, specifically looking at the use with a commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory agent. The findings focused on the co-administration of the two compounds.


Safety and Tolerability

Adverse Event Profile

Safety data was collected from studies involving adults. The adverse events reported most frequently included gastrointestinal upset and headache. The rates were comparable to those in the placebo group.

Specific Populations

Individuals with heart conditions were often excluded from the studies, limiting data in this population. In clinical studies, liver function was monitored for changes. No participants discontinued the study due to liver-related adverse events.


Conclusion of Evidence

Research has been conducted on this compound regarding pain and inflammation. Differences in results were observed when compared to placebo across multiple metrics. Evidence on long-term safety and specific patient subgroups remains limited.

Key Studies & References

  1. Study on Efficacy and Safety of Chondroitin Sulfate + Glucosamine Hydrochloride Versus Celecoxib in Knee Osteoarthritis (NCT01425853)
  2. Pharmacokinetics: An Overview of Drug Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cabal (FAQ)


Q: What are the most commonly reported side effects of Cabal?

A: According to official product information, some of the side effects reported most frequently in studies include somnolence (sleepiness or feeling tired), headache, and a sensation of dry mouth. The regulatory documents contain a complete list of all adverse events reported across different frequency categories.


Q: How long does it usually take for Cabal to start having an effect?

A: Studies and official information indicate that the effects of the medicine generally begin within approximately thirty minutes after taking an oral dose. This information is based on assessments of the compound's absorption profile in clinical research.


Q: How long can a person usually stay on Cabal?

A: Regulatory guidance indicates that the medicine is approved for both intermittent short-term use for temporary symptoms, as well as continuous long-term use for chronic or persistent conditions. The duration of use depends on the condition being addressed.


Q: Is it safe to take Cabal if I also take a multivitamin?

A: Regulatory documents detailing interactions primarily focus on specific medicines. There is typically no official interaction documented with standard multivitamin supplements.


Q: What information is available about using Cabal during pregnancy?

A: Official regulatory information advises that the medicine should be used only if clearly needed. This is based on the fact that adequate and controlled studies on its use in pregnant individuals are lacking.


Q: Can I take Cabal if I am breastfeeding?

A: Official safety profiles note that the drug is excreted into human milk. Due to this, official product information often states that use is not advised for women who are breastfeeding.


Q: Are there any known interactions between Cabal and herbal supplements?

A: Official regulatory interaction summaries focus on pharmacological substances, such as other medicines, alcohol, and food. Specific herbal supplements are not typically listed in the official interaction summaries.


Q: Is Cabal safe to use for teenagers?

A: Official dosing and eligibility guidance confirms that the medicine is approved for use in adolescents aged 12 years and older. They follow the same standard dosing patterns outlined for adults.


Q: How is Cabal eliminated from the body?

A: According to official pharmacokinetic summaries, the medicine is primarily eliminated from the body through urinary excretion. Most of the compound is cleared unchanged, with limited involvement of the liver's metabolic processes.


Q: Is Cabal the same type of medicine as [similar drug name]?

A: Official documents classify the medicine as a second-generation antihistamine. It is chemically defined as the active metabolite of hydroxyzine, which helps distinguish it from other compounds used for allergy relief.


Q: What is the difference between Cabal and a regular over-the-counter treatment for [condition]?

A: Cabal is a well-established substance in the second-generation antihistamine class. It is often available over the counter in many countries with the overarching purpose of mitigating allergic symptoms.


Q: Is Cabal addictive or habit-forming?

A: Official regulatory documents do not classify the medicine as addictive or habit-forming. However, the FDA has noted a risk of severe itching (pruritus) upon discontinuation after an individual has used the medication daily for a long duration.


Q: Is it normal to feel a mild headache after starting Cabal?

A: Yes, regulatory documents list headache as a common side effect of the medicine. This is a frequently reported event from clinical trial data.


Q: What happens if I miss a dose of Cabal?

A: Official labeling specifies the medicine is a once-daily (24-hour) treatment. Specific instructions regarding a missed dose should be clarified through a healthcare professional.


Q: Why do some people need to take Cabal more than once a day?

A: Official dosing guidance is clear that the medicine is designed for a once-daily frequency pattern. The officially recognized maximum dose for adults and children over 6 years is 10 mg in a 24-hour period.


Q: What should I do if the side effects of Cabal are too bothersome?

A: Official consumer labeling includes a recommendation to seek advice from a healthcare provider or doctor if side effects become bothersome, persist, or if symptoms worsen.


Q: Is it true that Cabal can affect mood?

A: Official product information lists a number of effects related to the psychiatric and nervous system. Side effects like agitation, aggression, confusion, depression, and hallucination are reported as rare or uncommon effects in regulatory documents.


Q: Can I use Cabal if I have a heart condition?

A: Official regulatory documents for this specific medicine do not list heart conditions as an absolute exclusion or contraindication.


Q: Has Cabal been approved in Europe/UK (EMA/MHRA)?

A: The active ingredient, Cetirizine Hydrochloride, is a well-established substance that has an official monograph in the European Union (EMA) and is widely approved and available in the UK (MHRA).


Q: Why do doctors switch patients from a different drug to Cabal?

A: The medicine is classified as a second-generation antihistamine. This class of drug is pharmacologically designed to have a reduced likelihood of inducing sedation compared to older-generation agents, which may be a factor in treatment choice.


Q: Does Cabal require a prescription?

A: The active ingredient, Cetirizine Hydrochloride, is commonly available over-the-counter (OTC) in multiple countries, including the US and UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription.


Q: Is there a generic version of Cabal available?

A: Yes, the active ingredient, Cetirizine Hydrochloride, is widely available in numerous generic formulations in addition to the brand-name product.


Q: Can Cabal be crushed or split if it is a tablet?

A: Official administration guidelines state that solid dosage forms, such as tablets, should be swallowed whole with a glass of liquid. This is to ensure the medicine is delivered as intended.


Q: Are there any common misunderstandings about what Cabal is used for?

A: The medicine is only officially indicated for the relief and management of symptoms associated with allergic manifestations, such as hay fever and hives. It is not intended for non-allergic symptoms or conditions.


Q: Does Cabal cause weight gain or weight loss?

A: Official product information notes that weight gain has been reported as an uncommon side effect in clinical trials. There are no regulatory claims or common reports regarding weight loss associated with the medicine.


Q: Does Cabal interact with birth control pills?

A: Official drug interaction summaries and regulatory data indicate that the medicine does not affect the efficacy of hormonal birth control pills.


Q: Are there any known interactions between Cabal and vaccines?

A: Regulatory drug interaction screeners and official databases typically show no specific interaction documented between the medicine and common vaccines.


Q: Why does Cabal need to be taken consistently every day?

A: The medicine is approved for the continuous management of chronic conditions where symptoms are persistent. Consistent daily use is necessary to maintain the therapeutic effect of blocking the histamine receptor system.


Q: What kind of monitoring is recommended when taking Cabal?

A: Specific laboratory monitoring, such as regular blood tests, is not typically required for the routine use of this medicine as outlined in official regulatory guidance.


Q: What do official warnings say about driving or operating machinery while taking Cabal?

A: Official warnings related to the ability to drive or operate machinery state that patients should first determine how the medicine affects their alertness. While it is generally non-drowsy, there is a potential for drowsiness in sensitive individuals.


Q: Does taking Cabal at a specific time of day matter?

A: Official guidance states the medicine may be taken with or without food. It only specifies a once-daily frequency, meaning the time of day is generally flexible, provided it is taken around the same time each day.


Q: Are there any specific lab tests needed before starting Cabal?

A: Official contraindication and monitoring sections confirm that no specific laboratory tests are universally required before beginning treatment with this medicine.


Q: What are the official guidelines for stopping Cabal treatment?

A: Official communication, such as safety reports from the FDA, has noted the potential for severe itching (pruritus) upon discontinuation after long-term daily use. This is a known symptom that may occur when stopping the medicine.

How should Cabal be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements for Cabal (Cetirizine)

Official regulatory guidelines define the mandatory conditions for storing Cabal to ensure stability. Solid forms, such as tablets and capsules, must be stored at a controlled room temperature between 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F). The liquid oral solution must not be stored above 25 C and must be discarded six months after the bottle is first opened.

All medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children, as required by government labeling. The product packaging, including blister units and bottle seals, must be intact for use.

For disposal, unused or expired Cabal should be taken to a drug take-back program. If this is unavailable, it should be mixed with an undesirable substance, sealed in a container, and disposed of in household trash; it is not recommended for flushing.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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Equivalent of Cabal found in:

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