Zyrtec syrup is an antihistamine medication that is primarily used to treat various allergic conditions. It is mostly recommended for children and adults where a low dose of medicine is needed. The following are some common uses of Zyrtec Syrup:

  1. Allergic Rhinitis: Zyrtec syrup is often used to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including sneezing, runny nose, nasal itching, and nasal congestion caused by allergies to substances such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander.
  2. Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: Zyrtec syrup can also be used to treat chronic idiopathic urticaria, which is a long-lasting hive (skin rash) without a known cause. It helps reduce itching and skin inflammation associated with this condition.
  3. Allergic Conjunctivitis: Zyrtec syrup may provide relief for allergic conjunctivitis, an allergic reaction affecting the eyes. It can help alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and watering of the eyes.
  4. Allergic Skin Conditions: Zyrtec syrup can be used to alleviate itching and reduce allergic reactions associated with various skin conditions, such as allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, or hives.
  5. Seasonal Allergies: If you experience symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and nasal congestion during specific seasons, Zyrtec syrup may be prescribed to alleviate these symptoms caused by seasonal allergies.

Off-label Uses of Zyrtec Syrup

  1. Pruritus (itching) due to other Causes: Zyrtec syrup’s antihistamine properties may help alleviate itching associated with various conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis, or insect bites. However, other specific treatments may be more appropriate depending on the underlying cause of the itching.
  2. Allergic Asthma: While Zyrtec is not a standard treatment for asthma, it may be used as an adjunct therapy in some cases to help manage allergic triggers that contribute to asthma symptoms. Asthma treatment should be determined by a healthcare professional.
  3. Non-Allergic Rhinitis: Zyrtec syrup may be used off-label to manage symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis, which is a condition characterized by nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing, but without an allergic cause.
  4. Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Zyrtec syrup may be used off-label to help manage symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis, a chronic allergic inflammatory condition of the esophagus. It may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and chest pain.
  5. Allergic Reactions to Insect Bites/Stings: Zyrtec syrup has been used off-label to manage allergic reactions triggered by insect bites or stings. It can help reduce itching, swelling, and other allergic symptoms associated with these reactions.
Zyrtec Syrup Uses and Indications

What is Zyrtec?

Zyrtec syrup is one of the leading brands of Cetirizine HCI in oral liquid form, manufactured and marketed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Pakistan.

Zyrtec Alternatives : Other Cetirizine Brands

The following are some alternative brands of Zyrtec Syrup and their manufacturers.

  • Rigix : AGP Pharma, Pakistan.
  • Baydal : Bayer Schering Pharmaceuticals.
  • Sedil : Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Incidal-Neo : Bayer Schering Pharmaceuticals.
  • Gixer : Barrett Hodgson Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
  • Cetrix : Saffron Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
  • Cerzine : Pharmevo (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Dicet : Sharooq Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
  • Tarcit : Searl Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
  • Arix : Tabros Pharma, Pakistan.
  • Zanlan : Novartis, Pakistan.
  • Arozine : Global Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
  • Rex : Albro Pharma (Pakistan).

Zyrtec : Available Formulations and Strengths

Presently, Zyrtec is available in Syrup and Tablet forms.

Zyrtec Syrup : 1mg/ml strength.

Zyrtec Tablet : 5mg and 10mg Strengths.

Zyrtec Chewable Tablets : 5mg and 10mg Strengths.

Who Should Not Use Zyrtec?

Zyrtec syrup has certain contraindications, which are situations or conditions where the use of Zyrtec is not recommended.

Hypersensitivity: Zyrtec syrup should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Zyrtec or any of its components. Allergic reactions to the medication can range from mild symptoms to severe reactions, so it is important to avoid its use in such cases.

Severe renal impairment: Zyrtec is eliminated from the body primarily through the kidneys. In individuals with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the clearance of Zyrtec may be significantly reduced. As a result, the use of Zyrtec syrup is generally contraindicated in these patients.

What is the Recommended Daily Dosage of Zyrtec Syrup?

Zyrtec Syrup Dose for Adults and Children (12 years and older):

  • 10 mg (10ml of syrup) once daily.

Zyrtec Syrup Dose for Children (6 to 11 years):

  • 5 mg (5ml of syrup) once daily.

Zyrtec Syrup Dose for Children (2 to 5 years):

  • 2.5 mg (2.5ml of syrup) once daily.

Zyrtec Syrup Dose for Children (6 months to 2 years):

  • 2.5 mg (2.5ml of syrup) once daily.
  • However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before administering cetirizine syrup to children in this age range.

How Zyrtec Works?

Zyrtec is a second-generation antihistamine that works by blocking the effects of histamine. Its mode of action is selective inhibition of histamine H1 receptors. When an allergen triggers the release of histamine in the body, it binds to H1 receptors, leading to the activation of various allergic symptoms. Zyrtec blocks these H1 receptors, preventing histamine from binding to them and thereby reducing or preventing the allergic response.

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