Цетрин

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Цетрин

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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 Цетрин

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Cetirizine Dihydrochloride
Form Film-coated tablet, Oral solution, Syrup
Pharmacological class Second-generation H₁-receptor antagonist
Common use Addressing the symptoms of allergic reactions
Origin Synthetic (Metabolite of Hydroxyzine)

What Type of Medicine is Цетрин?

Цетрин is a synthetic, long-acting medicinal product classified as a second-generation H₁-receptor antagonist, also known as an antiallergic agent. Its active substance is Cetirizine Dihydrochloride, a highly selective compound that works systemically after oral administration. Pharmacological studies confirm that Cetirizine is a key active metabolite of the older antihistamine Hydroxyzine, placing it in the carboxylic acid derivative chemical class.

This classification is clinically recognized for its targeted action. Cetirizine is designed to demonstrate minimal penetration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), thereby significantly reducing the potential for central nervous system effects, such as drowsiness, compared to many first-generation agents.


Active Composition and General Therapeutic Purpose

Цетрин's identity is based entirely on its active constituent, Cetirizine Dihydrochloride, making it a single-ingredient product. The drug is frequently available as an over-the-counter (OTC) item in many regions, reflecting its established safety profile for common allergic conditions. It is administered orally and is available in several dosage forms, including the standard film-coated tablet and liquid preparations such as an oral solution or syrup.

Its general therapeutic purpose is to help interrupt the cascade of the allergic response within the body, providing essential relief from associated symptoms. This objective is achieved by selectively blocking the effects of histamine, the primary chemical mediator released during an allergic reaction, by occupying its H₁-receptor sites. This action defines its function as a reliable antiallergic agent.

Regulatory References

  1. Cetirizine | WHO eEML

What side effects are possible with Цетрин?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Цетрин (Cetirizine Dihydrochloride) is based on official government regulatory documents, categorizing documented adverse reactions by frequency and affected body system.

Official Adverse Reactions by Frequency

Adverse reactions are classified using standard regulatory terminology. The most frequently reported effects are classified as Common (ge1/100 to <1/10 of users), while severe reactions are classified as Rare or Very Rare.

Classification Examples of Documented Side Effects
Common Somnolence (drowsiness), Headache, Fatigue, Dizziness, Dry mouth, Nausea, Pharyngitis.
Uncommon Agitation, Paraesthesia (tingling sensation), Pruritus (itching), Rash.
Rare Hypersensitivity, Convulsions, Tachycardia, Abnormal hepatic function (with elevated liver enzymes), Urticaria, Oedema.
Very Rare Anaphylactic shock, Thrombocytopenia, Hepatic failure, Oculogyration, Dysuria (painful urination).

Serious Safety Events

Serious adverse reactions documented in regulatory labeling include Anaphylactic shock, Convulsions, and clinically significant changes such as Abnormal hepatic function and Angioneurotic oedema (severe swelling).

Population and Duration-Specific Constraints

The official labeling notes specific safety constraints for certain populations and usage patterns:

  • Renal Impairment: The medicine is contraindicated in cases of severe renal disease. Dose adjustments are necessary for other degrees of renal impairment.
  • Lactation: Use is contraindicated during breast-feeding.
  • Discontinuation: The occurrence of pruritus and/or urticaria upon discontinuation has been reported following prolonged use.

Specific caution is advised for patients with risk factors for urinary retention or those prone to convulsions.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The regulatory profile for Цетрин (Cetirizine Dihydrochloride) overdose describes a range of clinical manifestations primarily involving the Central Nervous System (CNS).

Overdose Scope

Parameter Regulatory Statement
Documented overdose presentations Symptoms may include somnolence (drowsiness), sleepiness, fatigue, headache, dizziness, malaise, restlessness, irritability, tachycardia (fast heart rate), tremor, diarrhoea, confusion, and urinary retention.
Dose-related or exposure-related factors Overdose has been reported following ingestion of doses as high as 150 mg in adults.
Population-specific overdose notes Pediatric cases may exhibit initial restlessness and irritability followed by drowsiness, contrasting with the primary somnolence noted in adults.
When immediate medical help is required Individuals must seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away if overdose is suspected or if severe symptoms, such as seizures or collapse, occur.

Official Overdose Management

Official overdose statements:

  • The regulatory documentation confirms there is no known specific antidote to Cetirizine.
  • Management should be symptomatic or supportive treatment, which may include gastric lavage shortly after ingestion.
  • Monitoring measures may be necessary, and regulatory sources note that the substance is not effectively removed by dialysis.

Connection to the overall overdose profile: Regulatory documents define the overdose profile by listing the spectrum of CNS and systemic manifestations that necessitate immediate action. The official management approach is strictly supportive care, reflecting the regulatory acknowledgement that there is no specific antidote, and individuals are mandated to seek professional assistance immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Therapeutic Uses of Цетрин

What Цетрин Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Цетрин is a second-generation antiallergic agent commonly used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms related to heightened physiological activity. This medicine may assist with managing symptoms associated with conditions such as hay fever, seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, and chronic urticaria (hives). It is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, supporting the patient during difficult episodes by easing discomfort.

“Symptomatic relief may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations associated with common allergic conditions.”

This medicine helps address symptom clusters that may become intense, including sneezing, runny nose, nasal and ocular itching, and watery eyes. It is also applied in settings where localized discomfort, such as pruritus and swelling from hives, is more noticeable. It may provide supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.


Quick Fact: Relief for Allergic Discomfort

Symptom Domain Key Manifestations Addressed Clinical Context
Respiratory & Ocular Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, watery eyes Seasonal and perennial allergen exposure
Dermal Pruritus (itching), urticarial lesions (hives), localized swelling Chronic management and acute flare-ups
General Benefit Assists with maintaining functional stability and helps improve day-to-day comfort Periods of heightened allergic symptoms

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Цетрин?

Eligibility for using Цетрин (Cetirizine Dihydrochloride) is determined by official regulatory labeling, primarily based on age, existing medical conditions, and known allergies. Use is categorized as contraindicated, restricted, or approved across various patient groups.


Formal Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Цетрин is formally contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the active substance, to the parent compound hydroxyzine, or to any piperazine derivatives. It is also prohibited for patients with severe renal impairment defined by a Creatinine Clearance below 10 mL/min, which often includes those on dialysis.


Age-Based Eligibility

Age Group Eligibility Status
Infants (<6 months) Use not established; not recommended.
Children (6 months - 5 years) Approved for specific indications (e.g., chronic urticaria) using liquid formulations.
Children (6 years and older) Tablets are approved; use of tablets is generally not recommended under 6 years.

Conditional Use and Restrictions

Patients with mild to moderate renal impairment require a reduced dose as mandated by regulators. Caution is advised for patients with a risk of urinary retention (e.g., prostatic hyperplasia) or a history of epilepsy/convulsions. Use during pregnancy and lactation is generally subject to caution, with some regulatory bodies advising against use while breastfeeding due to the excretion of cetirizine into human milk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section outlines the officially documented interaction patterns for the active ingredient of Цетрин, Cetirizine Dihydrochloride, based on government regulatory prescribing information.


Documented Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Interaction Type Interacting Substance Official Regulatory Finding
Pharmacokinetic (Exposure Increase) Ritonavir (600 mg BID) Results in an approximate 40% increase in Cetirizine plasma exposure (AUC).
Pharmacokinetic (Clearance Reduction) Theophylline (400 mg daily) Causes a 16% decrease in Cetirizine clearance.
Pharmacodynamic (Additive Effect) Alcohol or Other CNS Depressants May cause additional reductions in alertness and impairment of performance.

Interactions with Food and Population-Specific Notes

  • Food Intake: Consuming Цетрин with food does not change the total amount of drug absorbed (AUC), but it decreases the rate of absorption, delaying the time to maximum concentration (Tmax) and reducing the maximum concentration (Cmax).
  • Population-Specific Constraint: Due to reduced drug elimination, Цетрин is contraindicated in individuals with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min).
  • Hepatic Impairment: Patients with chronic liver diseases demonstrate reduced clearance (40% decrease) and a prolonged half-life (50% increase) for Cetirizine, increasing overall exposure.

Officially documented studies reported no clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions when Cetirizine was co-administered with medicines such as Azithromycin, Erythromycin, Ketoconazole, or Pseudoephedrine.

Mechanism of Action

Цетрин (Cetirizine) functions as a selective antagonist of the peripheral histamine H1 receptor.

Molecular Interaction

Histamine, an endogenous signaling molecule released by mast cells and basophils, exerts its effects by binding to and activating H1 receptors on target cells, including those in the respiratory tract, vascular endothelium, and smooth muscle. Цетрин acts by competitively binding to these peripheral H1 receptors, thereby blocking the activation cascade initiated by histamine. This interaction is characterized by a high affinity for the receptor and prevents the subsequent downstream signaling events.

Intracellular Consequence

By inhibiting H1 receptor activation, the drug prevents the histamine-mediated increase in intracellular calcium and the associated cellular responses. Furthermore, its biological activity extends to the inhibition of inflammatory cell migration, specifically the recruitment of eosinophils and neutrophils to sites of cellular distress, through mechanisms independent of the H1 receptor pathway. This dual mechanism modulates the overall inflammatory response at a cellular level.

System-Level Modulation

The primary systemic consequence is the stabilization of local vascular permeability and the prevention of microvascular dilation, which are direct effects of histamine signaling. Цетрин's chemical structure and efflux by P-glycoprotein limit its passage across the blood-brain barrier, resulting in highly selective action on peripheral H1 receptors.

Dosage and Administration Information

Instruction Map: How to use Цетрин — Official Administration Guidelines

The official instructions for Cetirizine Dihydrochloride are designed to standardize the administration and dosing regimen.


Administration Scope

Instruction Detail
Route of Administration: Primarily Oral (tablets, solution). The active substance also has an approved Intravenous (IV) route for specific, acute settings.
Dosing Schedule: Adults/Adolescents (over 12 years): Standard dose is 10 mg once daily. Children (6 to 12 years): Typically 5 mg twice daily or 10 mg once daily.
Timing in Relation to Meals (if applicable): May be taken with or without food, as absorption extent is maintained.
Preparation Requirements (if applicable): Liquid forms must be measured with an appropriate dosing device. Tablets are to be swallowed with liquid.
Age-Group Administration Rules: Children under 6 years should use liquid formulations to allow for precise dose adaptation, as tablets do not permit this adjustment.
Missed-Dose Rules: (Adherence to the once-daily schedule is the main requirement).
Special Procedural Conditions: The dose may be administered in the evening if desired. Dose reduction to 5 mg once daily is necessary for adults with moderate renal impairment.

Instruction Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Detail
Administration method type: Oral (primary).
Frequency pattern: Predominantly Once daily for adults; Twice daily for younger children.
Use-context constraints: Physiological constraint (dose is reduced based on renal function); Diagnostic constraint (must be discontinued before allergy skin testing).

Resulting Procedural Structure

Official step sequence:

  • Determine the appropriate oral dosage form (tablet or solution) based on the patient's age.
  • Establish the necessary daily dose (e.g., 10 mg for adults) and confirm if a renal adjustment is required.
  • Administer the medicine once daily, which can be taken with or without food.

Connection to the Overall Use Protocol

The official administration protocol is established by the Oral Administration Route and the Once-Daily Standard Dosing, which define the baseline use pattern for the drug. The protocol requires that this baseline must be modified through Contextual Dosing when the patient has impaired kidney function, ensuring that dosage aligns with physiological parameters. This structured approach, including timing and frequency, outlines the standardized use of the medicine.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Цетрин (Cetirizine)


Evidence for Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (SAR)

Research has examined Cetirizine in the context of seasonal allergies (rhinitis), primarily conducted using short-term (1–4 week) Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. These studies have been used in research exploring how symptoms change over time in adult, adolescent, and pediatric populations during periods of heightened symptom activity. Research describes changes measured during the study period in Total Nasal and Ocular Symptom Scores when compared against control groups, with systematic reviews reporting consistent findings across these short-term evaluations. However, the majority of research is relevant in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns, and long-term effects are not fully established.

Evidence for Perennial Allergic Rhinitis (PAR)

Studies focusing on year-round (perennial) allergic rhinitis explored outcomes using short-term symptom measurement, but often with intermediate follow-up durations extending up to a few months. Research has explored the medication in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, monitoring outcomes reflecting daily functioning. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies regarding the measurement of symptom changes compared to control groups. For this chronic condition, data are still emerging for extended maintenance, and continuous use lasting longer than six months has mainly been evaluated in observational or safety-extension studies.

Evidence for Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU/CIU)

Research examined Cetirizine in the context of conditions involving persistent hives and itching. Trials, including those focused on dose-escalation strategies, utilized standardized instruments like the Urticaria Activity Score (UAS/UAS7) to track the severity and number of hives. Trials reported that measurements of the Urticaria Activity Score were observed over treatment periods of 1 to 3 months. However, the evidence quality varies across studies concerning dosing strategies above the standard limit, as these trials often have modest sample sizes. Controlled research focusing on long-term outcomes or remission rates remains insufficient.

Research in Special Populations

Research has been conducted in special groups, primarily in pediatric patients across different age ranges, utilizing systematic reviews of age-appropriate RCTs. Studies explored how symptoms are measured in children, focusing on age-appropriate outcomes related to daily functioning. Data for certain groups remain insufficient; for instance, evidence describing the use in the youngest cohorts sometimes relies on extrapolation from findings in older children.

Research Gaps and Uncertainties

Despite the extensive evidence base, certain aspects of Cetirizine research still present gaps. The comparative evidence is lacking for some of the newest-generation antihistamines, which means findings describe group patterns but do not always provide clear context relative to other recently developed medications. Furthermore, the results apply only to the populations studied, and evidence quality varies across studies, particularly when examining less common or secondary outcomes.

Key Studies & References

  1. Cetirizine, loratadine, or placebo in subjects with seasonal allergic rhinitis: effects after controlled ragweed pollen challenge in an environmental exposure unit
  2. Cetirizine: MedlinePlus Drug Information (National Institutes of Health)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Цетрин (FAQ)

Q: How quickly should I feel relief after taking Цетрин?

Regulatory reviews suggest that the onset of action for the medicine is typically observed within 30 to 60 minutes of oral administration, though individual response times can vary. Taking the medicine with food may delay the rate at which the active ingredient enters your bloodstream.


Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Цетрин last?

Official information indicates that the effects of a single dose of the medicine generally last for approximately 24 hours. This duration of action supports its regulatory classification as a once-daily treatment for allergy symptoms.


Q: What is the main difference between Цетрин and Loratadine?

Both Цетрин (Cetirizine) and Loratadine are classified as second-generation antihistamines. Regulatory documents comparing the two substances note that the potential for drowsiness is generally higher with Цетрин than with Loratadine. This difference is linked to their varying ability to penetrate the central nervous system.


Q: Is it normal to feel tired the day after taking Цетрин?

Yes, fatigue and somnolence (drowsiness) are frequently reported side effects in official adverse event reports. These effects are considered common and may persist and be noticeable throughout the day after the medicine is taken.


Q: Can Цетрин be taken by someone who has kidney problems?

Use is Contraindicated (must not be used) in patients who have severe renal impairment (a serious kidney condition). Official guidelines indicate that a reduced dose is necessary for adults with mild to moderate kidney impairment, as determined by a healthcare provider.


Q: Is Цетрин safe for people with liver issues?

Official labeling notes that caution is necessary when the medicine is used by patients with hepatic impairment (liver issues). This is because patients with chronic liver diseases may experience reduced clearance of the drug, which increases overall exposure.


Q: Do other medications interact negatively with Цетрин?

Official regulatory documents document interactions with several substances. Combining Цетрин with alcohol or other CNS depressants (medicines that slow down the brain) may cause additional reduction in alertness. Pharmacokinetic interactions have also been documented with medicines such as Ritonavir and Theophylline.


Q: Can Цетрин help clear up congestion caused by allergies?

Regulatory indications confirm its use in relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, which includes symptoms like a runny nose and post-nasal discharge. The medicine's effect helps manage the swelling and secretion associated with the allergic response.


Q: Can Цетрин be taken along with my daily vitamins or supplements?

The official documentation indicates that caution should be considered when the medicine is used alongside herbal remedies or supplements. This is especially relevant for supplements that may cause side effects like drowsiness or difficulty urinating, as these effects could be amplified.


Q: Can Цетрин be taken on an empty stomach?

Yes, the official administration instructions state that it may be taken with or without food. Taking it with a meal does not change the total amount of the drug absorbed, but it may cause a slight delay in the time to maximum concentration.


Q: Why is Цетрин sometimes prescribed for chronic conditions?

Цетрин is officially indicated for the treatment of both Perennial Allergic Rhinitis (year-round allergies) and Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (long-lasting hives). Since these are chronic conditions, the medicine's long duration of action supports its use in the ongoing, once-daily management of symptoms.


Q: What happens if I forget to take a dose of Цетрин?

If a dose is missed, regulatory guidance generally suggests taking it as soon as it is remembered, unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. If that is the case, the missed dose should be skipped. It is advised not to take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.


Q: Why do some people say Цетрин stopped working for them after a while?

Regulatory post-marketing surveillance reports have noted the recurrence of itching (pruritus) and/or hives (urticaria) upon discontinuation after prolonged use in some individuals. This observation is noted in regulatory post-marketing reports, although the specific reason for this temporary change is not fully understood.


Q: Does Цетрин affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

The official labeling indicates that caution is necessary when performing tasks like driving a car or operating machinery. This is due to the potential for the side effect of somnolence (drowsiness), which has been reported in patients using the medicine.


Q: Are there specific times of day when it is best to take Цетрин?

The dose may be administered in the evening if desired, as noted in the official instructions. Taking the dose in the evening may be chosen to help manage the potential for drowsiness during daytime hours.


Q: What research has been done on the long-term use of Цетрин?

The long-term safety of the medicine is evaluated through toxicology studies, which include animal carcinogenicity trials reviewed by regulators. However, official labeling notes that the clinical significance of these findings for extended use in humans is not yet fully established.


Q: Is Цетрин known to cause weight gain?

Yes, weight increased is documented as a Rare side effect in some official regulatory listings for the medicine. It is documented as a Rare side effect, meaning it has been reported infrequently in adverse event data.


Q: What research is available on the safety profile of Цетрин in specific patient groups?

Regulatory safety data are available from studies focused on the pediatric population across various age groups. Safety constraints have also been documented in official labeling for patients with existing conditions like renal (kidney) and hepatic (liver) impairment.


Q: Can Цетрин affect my sleep quality?

Official side effect reports show that while somnolence (drowsiness) is common, insomnia (sleeplessness) is also documented as a Rare side effect. This suggests the medicine may affect different aspects of the sleep cycle in a small number of people.


Q: Do I need to stop taking Цетрин before certain medical tests?

Yes, the medicine must be discontinued before undergoing an allergy skin test. This constraint is necessary because Цетрин's mechanism of action can suppress the skin's reaction to allergens, which would interfere with the test results.


Q: Is it okay to crush or chew Цетрин tablets?

Tablets are formulated to be swallowed whole with liquid, as indicated in the administration instructions. Liquid formulations are available for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets. The active ingredient is known to have a bitter taste, which could be exposed if the tablet coating is broken.


Q: Does Цетрин have a bitter taste?

Yes, the active ingredient is described in pharmaceutical research as having a very unpleasant bitter taste. Bad taste in mouth is also documented as a Very Rare adverse event in some official reports.


Q: Is it normal to experience a slightly increased heart rate after taking Цетрин?

The official documentation lists Tachycardia (an abnormally fast heart rate) as a Rare side effect in official regulatory listings.

How should Цетрин be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Cetirizine

Official regulatory documents define strict conditions for storing and disposing of Cetirizine (Цетрин) to maintain its stability and ensure safety.


Storage Requirements

Cetirizine must be stored at room temperature, generally defined as not exceeding 30 C, and some liquid forms may require storage not above 25 C. The medication must be kept away from excess heat and moisture, and it is explicitly stated to not freeze the product.

It is required to keep the medicine in the container it came in with the container tightly closed. Crucially, regulatory labeling mandates that all forms of this medicine must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.


Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Cetirizine must not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Disposal must follow the instructions provided by a pharmacist or adhere to local/regional regulations for pharmaceutical waste.

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

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