From the Guidelines
Taking two doses of cetirizine (10mg each) within a short period for a 12-year-old is not recommended due to the increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness and performance impairment. According to the study by 1, cetirizine 10 mg may be associated with mild drowsiness (13.7% for patients age 12 years) compared with placebo (6.3%), and higher doses may lead to performance impairment. The standard dosage for children 6-12 years old is typically 5-10mg once daily, and exceeding this recommended dose could increase the risk of adverse effects.
Some key points to consider:
- Cetirizine is associated with sedative properties, especially at higher doses or in individuals with low body mass 1.
- The use of cetirizine at recommended doses for the treatment of allergic rhinitis has been associated with sedative properties compared with placebo 1.
- Patients given cetirizine for allergic rhinitis should be cautioned regarding the risk of drowsiness and performance impairment 1.
- If a dose was accidentally doubled, it is essential to monitor the child for increased drowsiness or unusual behavior and return to the regular dosing schedule for subsequent doses.
It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider if the child's allergy symptoms are severe enough to consider a higher dose, as they may suggest alternative treatments or a different medication schedule. Cetirizine works by blocking histamine receptors, which reduces allergy symptoms, but taking more than the recommended amount does not necessarily provide better symptom control and may only increase the likelihood of unwanted effects 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions Adults and children 6years and overone 10 mg tablet once daily, do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Side Effects of Cetirizine in 12-Year-Olds
- The most common side effects of cetirizine in children include somnolence, which is dose-related and generally similar to that with other second-generation H1 receptor antagonists 2.
- Other potential side effects of cetirizine in children may include dry mouth, which has been seen more commonly with cetirizine than with placebo 3.
- Cetirizine has been shown to be well tolerated in pediatric patients, with no adverse effects on cognitive function, behavior, or achievement of psychomotor milestones 2.
- However, a recent study suggests that cetirizine may be associated with a higher risk of somnolence, attention disturbance, and other nervous and psychiatric system adverse events compared to loratadine 4.
Specific Considerations for 12-Year-Olds Taking 2 Doses of Cetirizine (10mg)
- The recommended dose of cetirizine for children aged 6 to 11 years is 10mg once daily, and it is not clear what the effects of taking 2 doses (20mg) would be 2, 3.
- However, given the potential for somnolence and other adverse events, it is possible that taking 2 doses of cetirizine could increase the risk of these side effects 4.
- It is also worth noting that cetirizine has been shown to have a rapid onset of action, with significant clinical inhibition of a wheal and flare response occurring within 20 minutes of a single oral dose, and persisting for 24 hours 3.
Important Safety Information
- Cetirizine has been associated with a potential risk of pericarditis, although this is relatively rare 4.
- As with any medication, it is essential to monitor patients for potential adverse events and adjust treatment as needed to minimize risks.