From the Guidelines
Cetirizine is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age, and for those 6-12 months old, the recommended dose is 2.5 mg once daily. When considering the use of cetirizine in infants, it's crucial to prioritize their safety and well-being, given the potential risks associated with over-the-counter cough and cold medications in young children, as highlighted in the study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 1. This study emphasizes the importance of avoiding the use of such medications in children under 6 years of age due to the risk of toxicity and the lack of established efficacy for symptomatic treatment of upper respiratory tract infections.
For infants 6-12 months old, the dose of 2.5 mg once daily is recommended, which can be administered as half of a 5 mg tablet or 2.5 ml of the liquid formulation. It's essential to use the liquid formulation specifically designed for children to ensure accurate dosing. The same dose applies to children 12-24 months old. The medication should be given at the same time each day for consistent relief of allergy symptoms.
Key considerations include:
- Never exceeding the recommended dose, as higher amounts won't improve effectiveness but may increase side effects.
- Consulting with a pediatrician before giving any antihistamine to an infant, as individual health conditions may affect dosing recommendations.
- Monitoring for unusual drowsiness, agitation, or other concerning symptoms after taking cetirizine, and seeking medical advice immediately if they occur.
The safety profile of second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine, as noted in the study 1, supports their use in young children when properly dosed and monitored. However, the decision to use cetirizine in infants should always be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional, prioritizing the infant's safety and well-being.
From the Research
Cetirizine Dosing for Infants
The recommended dose of cetirizine for infants can be determined based on the available studies.
- The study 2 evaluated the safety of cetirizine in infants aged 6 to 11 months and found that a mean daily dose of 4.5 mg (0.25 mg/kg twice daily) was well-tolerated.
- Another study 3 assessed the safety of levocetirizine, a related antihistamine, in infants aged 6-11 months and found that a dose of 1.25 mg daily was well-tolerated.
Key Considerations
When determining the dose of cetirizine for an infant, the following factors should be considered:
- Age and weight of the infant
- Medical condition being treated (e.g. allergic rhinitis, urticaria)
- Potential for adverse effects, such as sleep disturbances or cardiac effects
Available Data
The available data suggest that cetirizine can be safely administered to infants at a dose of 0.25 mg/kg twice daily, which is equivalent to a mean daily dose of 4.5 mg for infants aged 6 to 11 months 2. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dose for a specific infant, as individual factors may vary.