Cetirizine: a new, nonsedating antihistamine.
OBJECTIVE
To introduce cetirizine, a nonsedating antihistamine, and discuss its mechanism of action, chemistry, clinical and comparative trials, and adverse effects.


METHODS
An English-language literature search of MEDLINE was conducted.


METHODS
Human clinical trials were selected for evaluation.


RESULTS
Cetirizine, an investigational agent and a potent histamine1-antagonist is a piperazine derivative and carboxylated metabolite of hydroxyzine. As a second-generation, nonsedating antihistamine, cetirizine is associated with fewer adverse effects compared with first-generation antihistamines. It appears to be at least as effective as the other nonsedating antihistamines in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, chronic idiopathic urticaria, and pollen-induced asthma. The recommended adult dosage of this agent is 5 or 10 mg/d.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinical studies indicate that cetirizine may be more beneficial in some ways than other available agents. Two of these advantages are a rapid onset of action and a once-daily dosing regimen. Future postmarketing surveillance is warranted to further document these findings.
Barnes
C L
CL
Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506.
McKenzie
C A
CA
Webster
K D
KD
Poinsett-Holmes
K
K
D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy; D017332:Cetirizine / Q000737:chemistry / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D012221:Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / Q000188:drug therapy; D006255:Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / Q000188:drug therapy; D014581:Urticaria / Q000188:drug therapy
D017332:Cetirizine