Cetcip Tab Anti Histaminic

Cetirizine hydrochloride, an antihistamine, is a major metabolite of hydroxyzine, and a racemic selective H1 receptor inverse agonist used in the treatment of allergies, hay fever, angioedema, and urticaria. The structural similarity of cetirizine to hydroxyzine, and its derivation from piperazine, attribute similar adverse reactions and properties to other piperazine derivatives.

Cetirizine is a potent and highly selective antagonist of the peripheral histamine H1-receptor on effector cells in the GI tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract.
Absorption: Absorbed rapidly from the GI tract (oral); peak plasma concentrations after 1 hr. Rate, but not extent, of absorption altered by food.
Distribution: Enters breast milk; crosses the blood-brain barrier (insignificant amounts). Protein-binding: Highly bound.
Excretion: Via the urine (as unchanged); 10 hr (elimination half-life).