Generic Name

cetirizine
Dosage:
1 tab PO ODHS

Brand Name
Verlix

Classification
Therapeutic:
Antihistamine
Pharmacologic:
H1 receptor
blocker

Mechanism of Action

Indications

Adverse Reactions

Virlix competes with

histamine for binding at H1receptor sites on the effector
cell surface, resulting in
suppression of histaminic
edema, flare, and pruritus.
The low incidence of
sedation can be attributed to
reduced penetration of
cetirizine into the CNS as a
result of the less lipophilic
carboxyl group on the
ethylamine side chain.

For the relief of

symptoms associated
with seasonal allergic
rhinitis, perennial
allergic rhinitis and the
treatment of the
uncomplicated skin
manifestations of
chronic idiopathic
urticaria.

CNS: headache, nausea,

sleep problems,
restlessness, feelings of
irritation
GI: vomiting

Nursing Considerations

Do not use cetirizine to treat

hives that are bruised or
blistered, that are an unusua
color, or that do not itch.

Stop taking cetirizine and cal

your doctor if your hives do
not improve during the first 3
days of your treatment or if
your hives last longer than 6
weeks. If you do not know th
cause of your hives, call your
doctor.