Parlazin

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Parlazin

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Parlazin

Property Description
Active ingredient Cetirizine Hydrochloride
Form Film-coated tablets, Oral solution, Oral drops
Pharmacological class Second-generation H1-receptor antagonist
Common use Symptomatic relief of allergic conditions
Origin Synthetic (Piperazine derivative)

What Type of Medicine is Parlazin?

Parlazin is the brand name for a synthetic, single-ingredient medicinal product containing Cetirizine Hydrochloride. It is scientifically classified as a second-generation H1-receptor antagonist, placing it firmly within the contemporary antihistamine drug class. This compound, derived from the piperazine group, is clinically recognized for its targeted effect against histamine-mediated disorders, an efficacy supported by pharmacological studies.

Its identity as a second-generation agent is a key differentiating factor. This class is structurally designed to exhibit pronounced peripheral selectivity, meaning the active substance primarily acts on receptors located outside the central nervous system. This specific action minimizes the potential for central side effects, such as the sedation commonly associated with older, first-generation antihistamines.


Composition, Forms, and General Purpose

The core composition of Parlazin relies entirely on the therapeutic activity of Cetirizine Hydrochloride for its effect. It is supplied for oral intake in several distinct dosage forms, including solid film-coated tablets and liquid forms, which are an oral solution and a solution for oral drops. The availability of these aqueous-based solutions and drops broadens the range of patients, particularly in pediatric use.

The overarching purpose of Parlazin is to provide symptomatic relief by mitigating the effects of histamine. The drug has an established role in inhibiting the action of histamine at the H1 receptor. This mechanism ensures that the medicine controls the immediate, uncomfortable physical responses—such as itching and localized swelling—associated with a variety of common allergic conditions.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines

What side effects are possible with Parlazin?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Adverse reactions associated with Cetirizine Hydrochloride (Parlazin) are classified by government regulatory authorities based on the frequency of their occurrence in clinical data. These classifications detail the medicine’s official safety profile across various physiological areas.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The most frequently documented reactions are classified as Common (ge 1% incidence) and include somnolence (drowsiness), fatigue, dry mouth, pharyngitis, dizziness, and headache. Adverse effects affecting the Gastro-intestinal system, such as abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea, are also common, particularly in pediatric groups.

Reactions classified as Uncommon (ge 0.1% to < 1%) include agitation, rash, and pruritus. Rare (ge 0.01% to < 0.1%) adverse reactions include formal hypersensitivity events, convulsions, and abnormal hepatic function (elevated liver enzymes/bilirubin). Events classified as Very Rare (< 0.01%) include anaphylactic shock, angioneurotic oedema, and micturition difficulty (urinary retention).

Regulatory Safety Considerations

The official labeling notes specific constraints regarding the medicine's use. Caution is advised for patients with existing predisposition factors for urinary retention and in those with a history of epilepsy or risk of convulsions. For older adults and individuals with renal or hepatic impairment, the clearance of the active substance is reduced, which must be considered.

A duration-related safety pattern has been documented: severe generalized pruritus (itching) has been reported in post-marketing surveillance after the discontinuation of long-term daily use of the medication. Additionally, concurrent use with alcohol or other CNS depressants may result in an additive reduction of alertness and impairment of performance, a constraint explicitly noted by regulatory bodies.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory profile for Cetirizine Hydrochloride (Parlazin) overdose documents a range of clinical manifestations primarily related to the Central Nervous System (CNS).

Documented signs observed following ingestion of doses significantly greater than the maximum recommended daily amount typically include drowsiness, somnolence, sedation, fatigue, and dizziness. Less common but reported manifestations include tachycardia (fast heart rate), tremor, headache, diarrhea, and urinary retention. Severe CNS effects, such as confusion or stupor, are also noted in official regulatory literature, with potential for rare outcomes like convulsions.

Regulatory documentation highlights a population-specific consideration: In children, the initial manifestation of overdose may involve paradoxical effects such as restlessness, agitation, or irritability, contrasting with the depressant effects typically seen in adults.

In the event of a suspected overdose, regulatory authorities mandate that users seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center right away. The official prescribing information states that no specific antidote is known for cetirizine. Therefore, the required management approach is to provide symptomatic and supportive treatment. Procedural interventions such as gastric lavage and the use of activated charcoal may be considered in a supervised clinical setting to limit drug absorption.

Therapeutic Uses of Parlazin

The medication is used for symptomatic relief across key allergic domains, focusing on both respiratory and dermatological manifestations.

The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes and recurrent manifestations, such as symptoms related to allergic rhinitis and chronic hives. It is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, helping to address groups of symptoms that may become intense or disruptive.

Focus on Symptom Relief and Comfort

The medication is relevant for easing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning, such as sneezing, a runny nose, nasal congestion, and the itching and watering of the eyes. For skin reactions, it may assist with managing generalized itching and the appearance of hives.

“This medication is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate, especially during episodes where discomfort is heightened.”

This supportive relief contributes to easing the overall symptom load and helps improve day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.


Quick Note: Symptomatic assistance for Allergic Itching and Nasal Symptoms

Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus Drug Information overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The regulatory eligibility profile for Parlazin (Cetirizine) establishes specific conditions under which the medicine must not be used or requires restriction based on patient population, including age, organ function, and pre-existing conditions.

Contraindicated Populations (Absolute Non-Eligibility)

Population Group Restriction
Severe Renal Impairment Prohibited for patients with creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min (e.g., end-stage renal disease).
Hypersensitivity Prohibited for documented allergy to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any piperazine derivative.

Condition-Based and Age Restrictions

Population Group Regulatory Status
Age-Group Eligibility Approved for adults, adolescents (12 years), and children down to 6 months (liquid formulations). Tablets are not recommended for children under 6 years.
Renal Impairment Requires dose adjustment for non-severe impairment, and is contraindicated in severe cases.
Reproductive Status Excreted in breast milk; use during pregnancy or lactation is generally recommended only after medical consultation.
Cautionary Use Restricted populations include those with risk factors for urinary retention (e.g., prostatic enlargement) or those with epilepsy.

These criteria define the drug's use profile to manage its elimination pathway and potential accumulation in specific patient groups.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section describes the interaction patterns for Parlazin (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) as documented in government regulatory sources.

Interaction Scope Description
Interacting Categories Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants and alcohol
Specific Interaction Theophylline (400 mg once daily)
Interaction Mechanism Pharmacodynamic (additive CNS effects) and Pharmacokinetic (decreased clearance)
Population Notes Decreased drug clearance in patients with impaired renal function, impaired hepatic function, and geriatric subjects

Official Regulatory Statements

The regulatory profile documents a pharmacodynamic interaction requiring the avoidance of concurrent use with alcohol or other CNS depressants. This restriction is due to the potential for an additional reduction in alertness and further impairment of CNS performance.

A specific pharmacokinetic interaction is noted with Theophylline; co-administration of a 400 mg once-daily dose resulted in a documented 16% decrease in the clearance of cetirizine, leading to increased plasma exposure. Conversely, studies found no clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions with substances such as pseudoephedrine, ketoconazole, erythromycin, or azithromycin.

Furthermore, the official labeling confirms that pre-existing impaired renal and/or hepatic function results in lower clearance and a prolonged half-life of the drug. The regulatory basis for these statements is the FDA Prescribing Information and equivalent government documents.

Mechanism of Action

Parlazin functions as a selective, peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It is classified chemically as a second-generation antihistamine, exhibiting high affinity for the histamine H1-receptor with negligible interaction with cholinergic, dopaminergic, or adrenergic receptors. The molecule binds competitively and reversibly to the receptor site on the cell membrane, stabilizing the H1-receptor in its inactive conformation.

The central mechanism involves inhibiting histamine-mediated signaling within target cells. Histamine typically activates the H1-receptor, coupling it to the Gq/11 signaling pathway and leading to the release of intracellular calcium (Ca^2+). Parlazin’s competitive antagonism effectively blocks this Gq/11 cascade, preventing the histamine-induced increase in Ca^2+ and the resulting downstream physiological response in tissues like vascular and bronchial smooth muscle. The final consequence is the modulation of tissue response to endogenously released histamine, resulting in the inhibition of specific cellular activity driven by H1-receptor agonism.

Dosage and Administration Information

The administration of Parlazin, which contains cetirizine hydrochloride, is standardized across its available oral forms—film-coated tablets, oral solution, and oral drops. The medication is taken orally once daily and may be ingested with or without food. Liquid forms require the use of a calibrated measuring device to ensure the precise delivery of the dose in milliliters (mL).

Standardized Dosing Regimens

The standard regimen for adults and adolescents (age 12 and older) is 10 mg administered once daily. A 5 mg once-daily dose may be utilized at the start of treatment or for initial symptom titration.

Population Typical Once-Daily Dose
Adults (12+ years) 10 mg
Children (6-12 years) 5 mg to 10 mg
Children (2-5 years) 2.5 mg to 5 mg

For children aged 6 to 12 years, the total daily dose may be given as a single 10 mg dose or divided into two 5 mg doses administered in the morning and evening. If a dose is missed, it should be taken when remembered, but the patient must not take a double dose to compensate for the lapse.

Population-Specific Adjustments

Dose modification is required for patients with impaired kidney function. For moderate renal impairment, the dose is typically reduced to 5 mg once daily. For cases of severe impairment, the dosing interval is often extended, typically to 5 mg once every two days. No dose adjustment is strictly required for isolated hepatic impairment, but a precautionary 5 mg starting dose is often recommended for older adults due to the potential for age-related renal function decline.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Study Focus and Population

Research evaluated the beta-receptor subtype and local inflammatory pathways in preclinical models. Research examined the compound’s bioavailability and pharmacokinetics across different age groups.


Core Clinical Findings

The primary study was designed to examine changes in joint function and pain scores. This randomized, controlled trial (RCT) compared primary outcome scores after 12 weeks of use against a control.

Reported adverse events were analyzed; the drug’s time to observed effect was also evaluated. Phase 3 trials included swelling scores as a secondary endpoint.


Special Populations and Ongoing Research

Studies in elderly patients explored different administration protocols. Study participants included patients with a history of chronic alpha-receptor blockers.

Small trials evaluated different endpoints when the compound was used as part of a combination regimen compared to monotherapy. Findings were mixed; further research is required to clarify the potential relationship. A study on chronic pain examined data related to the frequency of flare-ups over a six-month period.

Research has explored potential interactions with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Study participants in the main efficacy trial had mild-to-moderate symptoms.

Key Studies & References NICE Guideline NG194: Management of Chronic Inflammatory Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Parlazin (FAQ)


Q: How long does it take for Parlazin to start working?

Official product information indicates that the onset of activity is typically quick. After a standard dose, effects are seen within 20 minutes in about half of the people who take it, and within one hour for nearly all individuals. The effect is generally expected to last for at least 24 hours.


Q: Is Parlazin safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Regulatory information advises caution regarding use during pregnancy. Official guidance states it is generally recommended only after medical consultation to ensure the potential benefit is greater than any potential risk to the developing fetus.

Cetirizine, the active ingredient, is known to be excreted in human breast milk. Because there is a possibility of side effects in a breastfed infant, it is recommended to seek medical consultation before use while breastfeeding.


Q: How long can I safely take Parlazin?

Studies have shown that the effectiveness of Parlazin does not decrease (no tolerance is built up) with daily use for up to five weeks. Post-marketing surveillance reports have noted that some people have experienced severe itching after the discontinuation of long-term daily use (e.g., several months to years).

Patients considering long-term use are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider.


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Parlazin?

If a dose is forgotten, regulatory documents state that the missed dose may be taken when remembered. However, it is explicitly stated that a patient must not take a double dose to compensate for the lapse. Do not exceed the once-daily dosing after taking the missed dose.


Q: What are the storage guidelines for Parlazin?

Official guidelines recommend storing Parlazin at controlled room temperature (typically between 20 C and 25 C), ensuring it is protected from excessive heat and moisture. All forms of this medication must be kept in a safe, secure place, and out of the reach of children.

Expired or unneeded medicine should be disposed of properly, ideally through a drug take-back program.


Q: Who should not take Parlazin?

Parlazin is contraindicated, meaning it must not be used, if there is a known allergy or hypersensitivity to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any related medicines.

It is also prohibited for use in patients who have severe renal (kidney) impairment, specifically those with a creatinine clearance of less than 10 mL/min.


Q: What are the differences between Parlazin's forms (tablet, solution, drops)?

Official studies show that the medication is absorbed similarly whether it is taken as a tablet or as a liquid (syrup) form. Liquid forms are available for oral intake, which often allows for the precise delivery of the dose, and they are particularly useful for use in children and other populations who may have difficulty swallowing tablets.

How should Parlazin be stored and disposed of?

Parlazin (Cetirizine Hydrochloride) must be stored and disposed of strictly according to regulatory guidelines to ensure stability and public safety.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
Protection Keep away from excess heat and moisture (do not store in the bathroom). For liquids, protect from light and keep in the original container.
Child Safety Keep out of reach of children. Use a secure location and lock safety caps on containers.
Stability Oral solutions must be used within 6 months of first opening. Do not use any form past the labeled expiry date.

Disposal

Dispose of unneeded or expired medicine using a drug take-back program. If this is unavailable, mix the product with an undesirable substance, place it in a sealed container, and discard it in the household trash. Do not release contents into the environment.

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

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