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Zyrtec (cetirizine)
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  • Reduces itching and skin symptoms in all age groups
  • Safe for long-term use, including in young children
  • Can reduce need for strong topical steroids
  • May help prevent asthma in allergic children
  • May cause drowsiness and dry mouth
How well does Zyrtec work?
Zyrtec is above average for atopic dermatitis "Over-the-Counter Medicines" treatments.
What is the evidence behind Zyrtec?
Cetirizine is effective at reducing itching and other skin symptoms in both children and adults with atopic dermatitis
What does the research say?
Study Summary

Cetirizine helped reduce itching and other symptoms of atopic dermatitis in adults, with better results at higher doses (40mg). The medication was most effective at reducing itching, redness, and skin thickening compared to placebo.

Dose ranging study: cetirizine in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in adults
Study Type
Clinical Trial
Studied Population
Total Patients: 178
Severity: not available
Age: 18+
Results
Higher doses of cetirizine were more effective at improving symptoms, with 40mg showing the best results
What are other patients saying?
Long-term use of cetirizine is safe, even in young children. Studies showed no negative effects on behavior, thinking ability, or physical development when used for up to 18 months
What does the research say?
Study Summary

Cetirizine was found to be safe for long-term use in young children with atopic dermatitis. The medication showed similar or fewer side effects compared to placebo over 18 months of treatment.

Prospective, long-term safety evaluation of the H1-receptor antagonist cetirizine in very young children with atopic dermatitis. ETAC Study Group. Early Treatment of the Atopic Child
Study Type
Clinical Trial
Studied Population
Total Patients: 817
Severity: not available
Age: 12-24 months
Results
This was primarily a safety study
What are other patients saying?
Cetirizine can help reduce the need for strong topical steroids in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis
What does the research say?
Study Summary

Long-term use of cetirizine in infants with atopic dermatitis helped reduce the need for stronger topical steroids, especially in patients with more severe disease. The medication also significantly reduced the occurrence of hives compared to placebo (5.8% vs 16.2%).

Long-term treatment with cetirizine of infants with atopic dermatitis: a multi-country, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (the ETAC trial) over 18 months
Study Type
Clinical Trial
Studied Population
Total Patients: 817
Severity: not specified
Age: 12-24 months
Results
What are other patients saying?
In children with atopic dermatitis who are allergic to grass pollen or dust mites, cetirizine may help prevent or delay the development of asthma
What does the research say?
Study Summary

In infants with atopic dermatitis who were allergic to grass pollen or house dust mites, cetirizine treatment for 18 months helped prevent or delay the development of asthma. This protective effect was particularly strong and lasted for 36 months in children allergic to grass pollen.

A double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of cetirizine in preventing the onset of asthma in children with atopic dermatitis: 18 months' treatment and 18 months' posttreatment follow-up
Study Type
Clinical Trial
Studied Population
Severity: not available
Age: 1-2 years
Results
Cetirizine prevented/delayed asthma development in sensitized infants
What are other patients saying?
Is Zyrtec Right For Me?
What is Zyrtec?
Cetirizine is an antihistamine medication that helps relieve allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, and runny nose. It's available over-the-counter and comes in tablet form.
What are the requirements for taking Zyrtec?
Zyrtec might be right for you if:

  • You are 6 years or older

  • You have allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, or runny nose

  • You have symptoms from hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies

How does Zyrtec work?
Cetirizine works by blocking histamine, a natural substance in your body that causes allergy symptoms. When histamine is blocked, you experience less itching, sneezing, and other allergy symptoms.
Is it safe for children?
Safe for children 6 years and older at appropriate doses. For children under 6 years, consult with a doctor before use.
Is it safe for elderly patients?
Adults 65 years and older should consult with a doctor before use. Dose adjustments may be needed, especially if there are kidney problems.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
Limited data available. Consult with your healthcare provider before using cetirizine during pregnancy.
Is it safe during breastfeeding?
Cetirizine passes into breast milk. Consult with your healthcare provider before using while breastfeeding.