Cetirizine drug class?

What drug class is cetirizine in?

Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine (specifically, a H1-receptor antagonist). [1]

What does cetirizine treat as an antihistamine?

Because it blocks H1 histamine receptors, cetirizine is used for allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes (typical of allergic rhinitis and related allergic skin symptoms). [1]

How is cetirizine different from older antihistamines?

As a second-generation antihistamine, cetirizine is generally less sedating than older (first-generation) H1 antihistamines, although drowsiness can still occur in some people. [1]

Is cetirizine the same drug class as loratadine or fexofenadine?

Yes. Cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine are all in the second-generation antihistamine (H1 blocker) class. Differences among them are mainly about side-effect profiles such as sedation and how people tolerate each medicine. [1]

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com — Cetirizine drug information: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/