Zodak tablets are considered a high-quality generic (copy) of the patented drug Zyrtec, which is also often recommended by doctors for certain allergic manifestations. Let's consider what this remedy is, what the mechanism of action is and how to use it.
Forms of release and composition of the drug Zodak
Cetirizine is the main component of the drug, which is one of the leaders among histamine blockers. The active substance is considered the most powerful selective antagonist of peripheral H1 receptors. The medication is presented in the form of tablets, syrup and drops.
- The syrup is available in the form of a colorless, transparent suspension, which may have a light yellow tint. A measuring spoon is included.
- The tablets are white in color, on one side of the oblong pill there is a vertical stripe in the middle. Tablets are packaged in blister packs (7, 10 pcs.).
- Drops are a clear, colorless or light yellow liquid. Available in 20 ml dark glass bottles. In addition to the bottle and instructions, the box also contains a dropper cap. The liquid has a slight banana flavor.
Analogs
The most famous remedies that can compete with Zodak drops are:
- Clargothyl.
- Loratadine.
- Telfast.
- Zyrtec.
- Claritin.
- Peritol.
- Fenistil.
- Lomilan.
- Erolyn.
Of course, there are currently a lot of antihistamines.
But not many of them can boast of safe use by children. That is why Zodak for children in the form of drops is the most common medicine. Zodak in drops has an effective effect on eliminating allergy symptoms in both children and adults. Parents should pay attention to the dosage; it is better to consult with their pediatrician. Zodak, the instructions for using drops of which are quite impressive, is used very carefully for children. This use of the product provides beneficial treatment and eliminates all kinds of side effects.
Action of active substances
Cetirizine has a prolonged action antiexudative, antipruritic and antiallergic effect. When used in a therapeutic dose, no antiserotonin, sedative or anticholinergic effects are observed.
Thanks to the active substance, histamine H1 receptors are blocked. Cetirizine stops the allergic reaction at an early stage and helps alleviate the course of the disease. The substance prevents the migration of inflammatory cells and reduces the ability to release mediators that are involved in the late stage of the allergic reaction. The product, by reducing spasm of smooth muscles and capillary permeability, prevents the development of edema in the tissues.
The action of cetirizine provides significant relief from allergic rhinitis. The substance helps eliminate skin hyperemia and is effective in combating cold urticaria.
Doses from 5 to 60 mg exhibit linear kinetics. After a single dose of 10 mg of the substance, a noticeable effect is observed in the period from 20 to 60 minutes and lasts a day.
The level of the active component in plasma is a maximum of 300 ng/ml. It does not affect the absorption of warfarin by plasma proteins. The half-life is 10 hours, about 2/3 is excreted unchanged in the urine. Eating food does not affect the amount of absorption of cetirizine, but the rate of the process is reduced.
How to take Zodak tablets
Zodak allergy pills can be taken regardless of the meal - that is, before, after or during a meal. The tablet should be swallowed whole, without chewing or dissolving, with a small amount of liquid (preferably clean water). If after using this drug the patient experiences drowsiness or decreased concentration, it should be taken in the evening. The question of how to take Zodak should be discussed with your doctor individually.
Zodak tablets – dosage
For adult patients who are recommended to take Zodak, the dosage is 1 tablet (10 mg) once a day. It is worth noting that after swallowing the medicine, the effect begins to appear after 20 minutes and lasts about 24 hours. Zodak, the use of which in some cases causes urinary retention, is prescribed in a lower dosage to patients with renal failure. In this case, laboratory test data are taken into account. For example, in such cases, the drug can be prescribed in a dosage of 5 mg (half a tablet) once a day or 1 tablet every other day.
If during the course of treatment the patient accidentally missed the time of the next pill intake, it should be resumed as soon as possible, and the dosage cannot be increased, otherwise this may lead to unpleasant symptoms (drowsiness, tachycardia, diarrhea, headache, etc.). It has been established that during a course of treatment, tolerance to the antihistamine effect of the active compound of the drug does not develop. After completion of the therapeutic course, the effect lasts for approximately three days.
How many days should I take Zodak tablets?
How many days Zodak tablets can be taken is determined by the doctor for each individual patient, based on the characteristics of the existing clinical picture, the possibility of isolation from the influence of the allergen substance, and the body’s reaction to the medicine taken. In many cases, it is recommended to use until allergic symptoms disappear completely. In case of severe pathology, the drug can be taken for several weeks or months.
Indications for use for children
Pediatric doctors use Zodak in the treatment of the following diseases in children:
- any types of urticaria in children (including idiopathic);
- hay fever;
- bronchospasm;
- itching with dermatitis and chickenpox;
- inflammation of the eyes, conjunctivitis;
- allergic runny nose, which occurs seasonally and year-round;
- Quincke's edema.
Sometimes the drug is used to reduce the risk of unwanted conditions when vaccinating a child, although there is no such information in the instructions.
Zodak does not contain glucose, so it can be taken by children with a history of diabetes. Due to their prolonged action, the drops make it possible to almost completely get rid of allergy symptoms.
Features of the use of the drug
With proper use of Zodak and the correct dosage, the soporific effect, which depresses the central nervous system, does not appear.
That is why the Zodak does not inhibit mental development. Children who take Zodak for allergies do not have to worry about a delayed reaction at school. It is this manifestation of the drug that most distinguishes it from other drugs. After all, as you know, such treatments often lead to increased drowsiness. There is no addiction to this drug, even with long-term use within the same course. This property distinguishes it from numerous analogues. The lack of addiction will be appreciated by all parents, because afterwards they will not have to run around looking for additional medicine for subsequent treatment.
Can be used by patients with diabetes mellitus, since the composition does not contain sugar.
Directions for use and dosage
Only a specialist can decide on the advisability of using Zodak in therapy. The dosage and duration of treatment is calculated depending on the form of allergy, the patient’s age and the severity of the disease.
For the treatment of children over 12 months of age, doctors recommend using syrup or drops, and all forms of release are suitable for adults. The adult daily dose is 1 tablet or 20 drops (10 mg of cetirizine), or 2 tablespoons of syrup (10 ml).
READ ALSO: Zyrtec drops: instructions for use for children
The drug is contraindicated for the treatment of women in any trimester of pregnancy. Mothers who are breastfeeding will have to stop breastfeeding if they take Zodak. For people with various liver and kidney diseases, monitoring and adjustment of the amount of medication will be required.
Can Zodak be used to treat infants?
At what age are children allowed to take the drug? The annotation for the medication contains information that Zodak should absolutely not be used to treat newborn babies from 0 to 12 months.
This is one of the contraindications of this antihistamine. Admission is unacceptable due to the fact that adverse reactions of various etiologies may occur, so if it is necessary to use an antiallergic drug, it is better to purchase another drug with a similar effect.
The most common antihistamine prescribed to children from 1 month of age is Fenistil (for more details, see the article: Fenistil drops: instructions for use for newborns). It is worth noting that only a doctor will be able to select an analogue with a similar effect that can be taken by infants.
Dosage and route of administration for children over 1 year of age
Children need to strictly follow the dosage indicated in the instructions or prescribed by the doctor:
- For the youngest children (after one year), it is more convenient to drink the product in the form of drops or syrup. Up to two years of age, a child can take 5 drops or 5 ml of syrup, dividing this amount into two doses. Before use, you can dilute the medicine with a small amount of water.
- Preschool children (2-6 years old) are prescribed up to 10 drops twice a day or 5 ml of syrup once a day. The measuring spoon has special divisions that allow you to pour the product up to the 5 ml mark.
- For children of primary school age (6-12 years old), 20 drops once a day or 10 ml of syrup (2 measuring spoons) are recommended; if desired, you can divide the required amount into two doses. Starting from the age of six, a child is allowed to take Zodak in tablet form - ½ tablet twice a day.
- For adolescents (over 12 years of age), the therapeutic dose of liquid forms of Zodak is the same as for children over 6 years of age. As for tablets, from this age one tablet is prescribed once a day. It should not be bitten, but should be swallowed whole and washed down with plenty of water.
If the next dose is missed, then the next dose does not need to be increased. The effectiveness of the drug is in no way related to food intake.
Zodak tablets - contraindications
Let us list the restrictions on the use of the drug in question:
- the presence of individual sensitivity to the components of the tablets, hydroxyzine and other piperazine derivatives;
- severe renal failure (end stage);
- hereditary galactose intolerance, lactose deficiency, malabsorption syndrome;
- age up to 6 years (for this form of the drug).
In addition, it is known that these tablets should be used with caution by people who have an increased risk of urinary retention or seizures (including epileptic seizures). Caution should also be exercised when taking alcohol-containing drugs and other drugs that depress the activity of the central nervous system.
Many female patients are concerned about the question of whether Zodak can be used for allergies during pregnancy and breastfeeding. According to available data, experimental studies have not revealed any cases of negative effects with a clear cause-and-effect relationship on the developing fetus (including in the postnatal period), on the course of pregnancy and delivery.
However, due to the lack of regulated, strictly controlled clinical trials involving pregnant women, no pregnant women have been conducted, which is why pregnant women should still refuse to use it. As for the period of breastfeeding, due to the fact that the active component of the drug enters the milk in a significant concentration, it can be used by nursing mothers only in urgent cases, in especially severe cases.
Contraindications for use
After opening the bottle, Zodak can be used for no more than two weeks. Despite the safety of the product, strict restrictions still exist for certain categories of people:
- children under one year old;
- pregnant and lactating women;
- people with individual intolerance to cetirizine and other substances included in Zodak.
In addition, contraindications are:
- severe liver and kidney diseases;
- bronchospasm, non-allergic cough;
- alcoholism;
- simultaneous treatment with drugs that depress the central nervous system.
Contraindications
Contraindications according to the instructions are necessary for each patient to familiarize themselves with before taking it, even if Zodax for allergies was prescribed by the attending physician. You should definitely make sure that Zodax will not cause harm and whether its beneficial effects will be less than the negative ones by referring to the instructions:
- Under no circumstances should Zodax be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as the use of the drug can cause significant harm to the baby.
- Severe diseases of the liver or kidneys, as well as disturbances or dysfunction in their work.
- You should not be treated with Zodax if the symptoms listed in the instructions are not a manifestation of an allergy.
- Zodax is not suitable for treating infants under 1 year of age and may be hazardous to their health.
- Particular care should be taken when treating people over 60 years of age, because Careless use of Zodax can cause the development of nervous diseases.
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It is forbidden to start taking Zodax for allergies if you have hypersensitivity to individual elements of the composition, as well as allergic reactions to them.
To avoid the occurrence and development of side effects, you should consult a specialist and read the instructions before starting treatment.
Allergic rhinitis
Side effects and overdose
With a correctly calculated dosage, side effects are quite rare and are predominantly transient. Despite this, some patients still complain of short-term dizziness, upset stomach, dry throat, nausea and fatigue.
In case of intolerance to one of the components of Zodak, urticaria or skin rashes with itching may develop.
Side effects from using the drug are identical to the body's reactions during an overdose. In case of overdose, it is necessary to stop taking the medicine, rinse the stomach, drink activated charcoal, and possibly carry out symptomatic therapy.
Main side effects that may also indicate an overdose:
- headache;
- overexcitation, lethargy, nervousness;
- severe dizziness;
- loss of strength and drowsiness;
- dyspepsia;
- rash;
- drying out of the nasopharynx;
- vomit;
- urinary retention;
- digestive problems;
- angioedema;
- tremor of the lower and upper extremities;
- tachycardia.
Possible side effects
In general, Zodak is well tolerated by children and has no side effects. However, in rare cases, it can cause shortness of breath, swelling, and itchy skin rashes.
Intestinal bloating, dry mouth, and overexcitement may also be noted. In this case, you should stop taking the medication and contact your pediatrician.
If side effects occur, stop giving the medicine to your child.
Zodak should be taken with caution if the child has kidney or liver problems. In such cases, the doctor usually specifies the dosage regimen. Also, the drug is not recommended to be taken in parallel with bronchodilators (medicines that relieve bronchospasm), for example, Eufilin, Retafil, Teostad, etc.
How many days can you take allergy medicine?
How long can treatment with the drug be carried out? How long the therapy will last will be determined by the doctor, taking into account the age and individual characteristics of the patient, as well as the type of allergic reaction. Typically, the course of taking the drug is 7-10 days, but in difficult cases it can exceed 12 months.
For people suffering from chronic runny nose of allergic origin or idiopathic urticaria, the longest use of the drug is indicated - for 1 year. Doctors have noted that the use of the drug can significantly improve the quality of life of patients suffering from chronic forms of allergic diseases.
To treat children with seasonal allergic rhinitis, you will need to take the medicine for 2-4 weeks, and treatment for adults will take 3-6 weeks. In the complex treatment of asthmatic conditions of allergic origin, Zodak is sometimes used for 6 months.
Composition of Zodax
Speaking about the composition of Zodax, according to the instructions, it should be noted that the active substance is cetirizine dihydrochloride. The composition also includes a number of auxiliary substances in the fight against allergies, which differ for different forms of release of the drug.
Therefore, it is imperative to specify the individual ingredients of the composition in the instructions for use in order to avoid the occurrence of allergic reactions. Let's consider a number of excipients that may cause allergies or not be tolerated by patients individually:
- magnesium stearate,
- talc,
- propylene glycol,
- lactose monohydrate,
- povidone,
- titanium dioxide,
- acetic acid,
- corn starch.
According to the instructions, the antisedative effect of using Zodax can be achieved precisely thanks to these substances, therefore, if you are allergic to certain elements of the composition, it is better to turn to analogue drugs.
When using Zodak in tablets, special attention should be paid to the elements of the coating composition indicated in the instructions for use, because they can also pose a certain danger in the form of allergies, especially in persons under 18 years of age.
Zodak express
Allergy medicine Zodak: contraindications and side effects, price, analogues
Doctors recommend using Zodak for seasonal allergic rhinitis, chronic urticaria, conjunctivitis, as well as allergies to household products and products for caring for your body and face.
Allergies to animal fur, insect bites, sun - this medicine copes well with these and many others. The most important rule when using the drug is not to violate the dosage: do not reduce and, especially, do not exceed it. Each release form has its own dose for each patient age. It is very important that the children’s dosage is kept very strictly, especially for those who have not yet reached the age of 12. An overdose can cause some consequences, for example:
- Disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Constipation, vomiting and diarrhea will continue until the end of the course of the drug.
- Incoherent speech, cold sweats and hallucinations.
- Drowsiness or, conversely, hyperactivity.
- Head pain that is similar to migraine.
- Dry mouth, frequent desire to drink in large quantities.
In case of overdose, the victim’s stomach should be rinsed and allowed to rest for 24 hours.
Like other medications to get rid of allergies, Zodak cannot be taken by all people.
There are a number of conditions for which it is prohibited to take this medicine. It includes:
- Kidney and liver diseases. People who suffer from cystitis, cirrhosis of the liver and many other diseases are prohibited from taking the drug.
- Children's age up to 1.5 years. It is better, of course, to abstain until the child reaches two years of age, but with the doctor’s approval, you can start taking the medicine a little earlier.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Patients over 60 years of age are not recommended to take Zodak, but with full consultation with a doctor and his consent, they are still allowed to use this drug.
In the form of drops or syrup, the drug is often prescribed to relieve the symptoms of an allergic reaction in children. Therefore, when conducting clinical trials, the main focus was on safety. Moreover, as experts have found, in a child under 2 years of age the risk of unwanted reactions is much lower than in adults.
It is extremely rare that allergy medicine Zodak can cause the following side effects:
- symptoms associated with the effect of the drug on the central nervous system are drowsiness, fatigue, irritability, impaired concentration, memory disorders, headache;
- involuntary short-term muscle contractions (paresis);
- dryness on the surface of the mucous membrane of the nose, mouth, conjunctiva;
- blurred vision;
- pharyngitis, reflex cough;
- abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea;
- urinary disorders;
- increased appetite and associated weight gain;
- peripheral edema.
The main contraindication to taking the medicine is hypersensitivity to any of its components. But this is quite rare, since if you are allergic to the auxiliary ingredients of the drug, you can choose a different form of release. Also, the medication is not prescribed to children under one year old, pregnant and lactating women.
The allergy medicine Zodak is used with caution in cases of renal failure due to the risk of overdose. So, in case of a disease of moderate severity, the daily amount of the drug is halved; in case of severe symptoms of the pathology, another drug is prescribed, which is metabolized mainly in the liver.
Analogues of the drug Zodak:
- Zintset (India), tablets and syrup;
- Zyrtec (Switzerland) is prescribed as often as Zodak, since this drug has similar release forms;
- Parlazin (Hungary), oral drops and tablets;
- Cetirizine (Russia), tablets;
- Cetirizine Hexal (Germany), tablets and drops;
- Cetirinax (Iceland), tablets;
- Cetrin (India), drops, syrup and tablets.
Oksana, 38 years old. “I have suffered from allergies for a long time, so antihistamines firmly occupy a central place in the family medicine cabinet. The doctor recommended cetirizine a long time ago, and I chose its analogue made in India, but I didn’t feel much result. Then I decided to switch to Zodak. This drug, unlike cheaper analogues, really works, and the effect of its use lasts at least 20 hours. By the way, I did not experience the side effects described in the instructions.”
According to doctors, the allergy medicine Zodak is the optimal remedy for eliminating the symptoms of the disease in both adults and children. The price for a package of 7 tablets is 290-300 rubles, a bottle with 20 ml drops costs 200-210 rubles. But given that the drug’s activity continues throughout the day, the overall costs of treatment remain low.
Before pregnancy, many women take this medication to relieve or protect themselves from allergies. But not many people know that when they are pregnant, this medication is strictly prohibited. Most people ask the question: why not, because he saved me like that before? But although he really copes with his functions perfectly in normal times, during pregnancy the Zodak causes enormous harm to the health of the child and mother.
Women who did not know or suspect about the dangers of Zodak during pregnancy, after taking this drug or many other medications from the antihistamine group, gave birth to very lethargic and painful children. In most cases, children are born with an unusual color and tend to have a blue-violet skin tone.
Parents then make a lot of effort to raise a completely healthy child. It is especially dangerous to take Zodak during pregnancy in the 1st trimester, since it is during this period that all the baby’s organs are formed. In the 2nd and 3rd trimester, the risk of harming the baby’s health also remains quite high.
If allergies occur, doctors recommend that mothers in labor choose lighter and gentler medications.
Zodak during pregnancy: why is the drug dangerous?
Allergies during pregnancy are not uncommon, and its symptoms - sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, coughing, runny nose and lacrimation not only cause discomfort for the expectant mother, but can also negatively affect the course of pregnancy and the development of the fetus. Antihistamines are prescribed extremely carefully during pregnancy; many medications in this category are contraindicated for pregnant women, this also applies to Zodak. The annotation for the drug clearly states that Zodak should not be taken during pregnancy. But what if the doctor prescribed this particular medicine? And what antiallergy drugs are considered safe for pregnant women? Let's try to figure it out!
What kind of drug is Zodak?
Zodak is an antiallergic drug for oral administration. It is available in 3 forms:
All three forms contain the same active ingredient – cetirizine. It is a histamine H1 receptor blocker, that is, taking the drug prevents the connection of histamines with histamine receptors and does not allow allergy symptoms to develop.
The advantage of Zodak over other drugs in this category is the absence of drowsiness while taking the medication (of course, only if the recommended dosage is followed). Even with prolonged use of the drug, addiction to it does not develop, which makes it the best option for a course of use.
In addition to Zodak, you can find the drug Zodak Express on sale. Its active component is levocetirizine, a substance consisting of R-forms of cetirizine, which have greater therapeutic activity. Medicines are produced by companies of the same group – Sanofi. The packaging of the Zodak drug bears the Zentiva brand, which was purchased by Sanofi Corporation in 2006. The products of these pharmaceutical companies are widely known throughout the world, including in Russia.
How does Zodak work?
Histamines are substances produced by the body's mast cells and stored in them for future use. When exposed to certain factors, including when an allergen enters the body, a large amount of histamine is released into the blood. By binding to histamine receptors located in certain cells, histamine provokes the development of allergic reactions.
Zodak acts on H1 receptors, which are found in smooth muscles, blood vessels and nerve cells of the body. When these receptors are irritated, external allergy symptoms occur: swelling, itching, skin rash, redness of the skin, lacrimation, sneezing, coughing, runny nose.
The drug not only relieves the symptoms of an allergic reaction that has already occurred, but also prevents the subsequent development of allergies with further exposure to the irritant on the body.
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Taking Zodak during pregnancy
As was already said at the very beginning of the article, the drug is not approved for use during pregnancy. When choosing antihistamines during pregnancy, women should give preference to locally acting agents: sprays, aerosols, ointments, creams. Medicines taken orally are prescribed by a doctor only if local medications are ineffective. When treating allergies, the main thing is to identify and eliminate the irritant that provoked the allergic reaction.
In the early stages of gestation, medications can cause developmental problems in the child. Many antiallergic drugs have a teratogenic effect on the fetus. According to doctors, there are no medications that are completely safe for expectant mothers, especially in the early stages. In the 1st trimester, the placenta has not yet formed, which means that the fetus has no protection from the negative influence of external factors.
Zodak is also prohibited during pregnancy in the 2nd trimester. A contraindication to the use of Zodak in the later stages is due to the fact that antihistamines during pregnancy in the 3rd trimester can cause a decrease in the activity of the newborn baby. A child, being in a “sleepy” state due to the sedative effect of antiallergic drugs, may have breathing problems. There is no evidence that Zodak can interfere with aspiration and cause pneumonia in a child, however, antihistamines can have a negative effect on the respiratory system of newborns. Zodak is considered a relatively new drug; there is still very little information about its use by pregnant women. It is better not to take risks and refuse to use Zodak during pregnancy. Self-medication is especially dangerous!
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Side effects of Zodak
In addition to the questionable safety of taking Zodak during pregnancy, it is also not recommended to use the drug due to possible side effects:
- Frequently occurring adverse reactions include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, pharyngitis, rhinitis;
- Rare side effects include: seizures, depression, confusion, depression, sleep problems;
- very rarely, but the following reactions may occur: anaphylactic shock, blurred vision, abdominal pain, stool disorders, sudden weight gain and increased appetite, Quincke's edema, skin erythema.
As you can see, side effects when taking Zodak can be dangerous for the expectant mother and her baby. Since a pregnant woman’s body can react unpredictably even to a well-known drug, you should not take it on your own initiative. Only a doctor monitoring the course of pregnancy can prescribe treatment.
How to replace Zodak during pregnancy?
Expectant mothers who often took Zodak in a non-pregnant state know about the effectiveness of the drug. The effect of Zodak is observed after 20-30 minutes, the effect persists throughout the day. However, given the possible danger of the medication, it is better not to take it. Doctors try to prescribe antiallergic drugs to expectant mothers that have been on the market for more than 15 years. The experience of their use allows us to conclude that they are relatively harmless to the fetus. During pregnancy, if it is necessary to take antihistamines, expectant mothers may be prescribed:
- Suprastin: prescribed with caution, especially in the early stages, may cause drowsiness;
- Diazolin: allowed in the 2nd and 3rd trimester;
- Fexadin: in rare cases, can be used by pregnant women;
- Claritin: can be taken during pregnancy after a doctor has assessed the balance of risks for the child and benefits for the mother.
Antihistamines can cause uterine tone, provoke miscarriage, have a strong sedative effect, and negatively affect the child’s health. Expectant mothers should not take antiallergic drugs, including Zodak, without a doctor’s prescription.
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special instructions
Consultation with a doctor before treatment with Zodak is mandatory for people with severe changes in kidney and liver function and for the elderly.
Simultaneous treatment with this antihistamine and drugs that act as a depressant on the central nervous system is not recommended.
During the period of treatment you should refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages. At this time, it is also necessary to exclude work that requires extreme speed of reactions and concentration.
Use in children
In many cases, treating children with Zodak for allergies is no different from treating adults, except for the dosage. Since Zodax is quite potent, Zodak for allergies is usually prescribed for children in drops, which has a gentle effect on the child’s body and is more convenient to use than tablets.
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Let us note a number of features of treatment with Zodak in children:
- If the child is under 12 years old, then before starting to use Zodax, you must consult a specialist and read the instructions.
- In some cases, Zodex drops can be used in children under 1 year of age. In this case, treatment is carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor and adjusted individually.
- When a child experiences side effects from using Zodax, self-treatment is unacceptable. You should definitely stop using Zodax for allergies and go to the hospital as soon as possible.
If the child’s allergies are not severe and do not require serious medications, then it is best to give preference to treatment with specialized drugs for children.
Types of facial allergies in children
Zodak drops: instructions for use for children, reviews, dosages, price
Drops against allergies based on cetirizine. The children's form of release makes it possible to use Zodak from 2 years of age. When used correctly, side effects are extremely rare. The drug effectively relieves itching and swelling. Does not accumulate in the body. The single dosage and frequency of administration are determined by the doctor. May cause side effects on other organs and systems.
Drops are sold in dark brown glass bottles with a capacity of 20 ml. 1 ml of liquid contains 10 mg of active ingredient. The bottle is sealed with a plastic cap with a dropper for easy dosing of the medicine. The lid has a child protection mechanism. To uncork the bottle, press the plastic cap and turn it counterclockwise. After use, screw the bottle firmly in a clockwise direction.
Zodak drops for children are produced by pharmaceutical companies, the country of origin is the Czech Republic. The active ingredient of the drug is cetirizine dihydrochloride, which is a selective blocker of H1-histamine peripheral receptors of the 2nd generation. The substance does not have significant anticholenergic and antiserotonergic effects, which makes the drug more effective and safe for use in childhood compared to 1st generation antihistamines.
Excipients: purified water, glycerol, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, sodium saccharin dihydrate, glacial acetic acid, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, sodium acetate trihydrate, propylene glycol. Additional substances are necessary to create a convenient dosage form, extend the maximum shelf life, and increase the effectiveness of the active substance in the drug.
Zodak drops for children belong to the 2nd generation antihistamine group of drugs.
The active ingredient, cetirizine dihydrochloride, selectively blocks peripheral H1-histamine receptors and competes with the effects of histamine. This leads to the elimination of an allergic reaction in the body and an improvement in general condition. The drug substance reduces the activity of eosinophils and basophils in the skin and mucous membranes, which prevents allergic damage to the eyes, upper respiratory tract, and skin.
In therapeutic age doses, Zodak prevents the development of seasonal and atopic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, bronchial asthma, urticaria, allergic dermatitis, and eczema. Cetirizine has an anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effect, improves airway patency, reduces the formation of inflammatory discharge from the nose and eyes, prevents skin rashes, and soothes itching and itching.
Pharmacokinetics
Zodak drops are intended for oral use. After entering the digestive tract, the drug is absorbed in the stomach, penetrates into the general bloodstream (systemic action), and binds to transport proteins in the blood by 93%. In clinical trials, no effect of cetirizine on the combination of warfarin with transport albumins was revealed. The maximum concentration of the drug in the blood plasma is achieved after 30-90 minutes. The rate of absorption is affected by the use of drops with food. Taking with food prolongs the rate of absorption, but does not affect the concentration of the drug in the blood plasma.
Cetirizine is largely not metabolized in the liver. The drug is excreted by the kidneys 2/3 unchanged. No accumulation of cetirizine in the body was detected. Violation of the pharmacokinetics of the drug develops in renal failure. When creatinine clearance is less than 10 ml/minute, cetirizine is not excreted and has a toxic effect on organs and tissues. The half-life of the drug from the body in children is 3 hours, in adults on average 10 hours.
Zodak drops for children are prescribed by a doctor after examining the child and conducting additional diagnostic methods. The drug is used for allergic conditions of a seasonal intermittent (during flowering plants) or persistent (in contact with an allergen year-round) nature.
Indications for prescribing Zodak drops:
- allergic rhinitis (tingling and itching in the nose, mucous discharge from the nasal passages, sneezing);
- allergic conjunctivitis (redness of the mucous membrane of the eyes, itching, lacrimation, photophobia);
- allergic rash (urticaria, dermatitis, eczema);
- bronchial asthma (difficulty in breathing, unproductive cough, feeling of lack of air, wheezing in the lungs);
- idiopathic urticaria (skin lesions and fever).
Zodak drops are effective and safe for use in children aged 1 year and older.
Zodak drops have a small list of contraindications. The effectiveness of action is determined by the dose and frequency of administration of the medicinal substance, and the duration of the course of therapy.
Contraindications for prescribing Zodak drops:
- increased individual sensitivity to cetirizine, hydroxyzine (the substance from which cetirizine is synthesized), and excipients of the drug;
- severe renal failure with creatinine clearance less than 10 ml/minute;
- infancy (up to 1 year).
In other cases, the drug is prescribed under the supervision of a doctor in age-specific dosages.
Zodak drops are used to eliminate allergic reactions in the body. For children over 12 years of age and adult patients, 20 drops of the drug (10 mg) are prescribed once a day, for children from 6-12 years old - 10 drops (5 mg) twice a day, for children from 2 to 6 years old - 5 drops (2. 5 mg) twice a day; children from 1 to 2 years old – 5 drops (2.5 mg) once.
Drops in large dosages are dissolved in a third of a glass of boiled water. In small dosages for children under 6 years of age, drops are dissolved in a tablespoon or teaspoon of boiled water, depending on how much liquid the child can drink at a time.
Taking Zodak drops in recommended age-specific doses rarely leads to the development of side effects. Despite the fact that cimetidine dihydrochloride selectively blocks H1-histamine receptors and practically does not penetrate the blood-brain barrier, sometimes undesirable effects from the central nervous system occur. Fatigue, drowsiness, headache, dizziness, and periods of mental agitation appear.
An increase in anticholinergic action causes urinary disturbances and urinary retention, deterioration of the accommodation process (the ability to focus vision), and dry mouth. Side effects from the liver are manifested by an increase in the concentration of bilirubin and liver enzymes in the blood. These indicators normalize after discontinuation of the drug. Nausea, single vomiting, and abdominal pain are recorded. Rarely, children develop pharyngitis.
Operating principle
- Suction. As soon as the components of Zodak enter the child’s body, they are immediately absorbed from the digestive tract. The maximum concentration of cetirizine in the blood is determined one hour after taking the medicine. The drops can be taken during meals; this will not affect their absorption in any way.
- Distribution. Cetirizine binds to the protein structures of blood plasma by at least 93 percent. The active substance does not get inside the cells, but can be found in breast milk.
- Metabolism. The active components of Zodak do not accumulate in the liver.
- Excretion. 70% of the drug is excreted unchanged by the kidneys (in children from 2 to 12 years old, a single dose of the drug “leaves” half of the body 5-6 hours after administration).
Important: with a 10-day treatment course with a single 10 mg dose of the drug, cetirizine does not accumulate in the patient’s body.
The first results appear 20-60 after taking the drug. Zodak has a prolonged action (works for 24 hours). It is noteworthy that the drops do not have any hypnotic (sedative) effect, and therefore do not interfere with the active mental activity of a patient with allergies.
Zyrtec during pregnancy
According to medical statistics, in 55% of pregnant women, allergies manifest themselves in the form of a runny nose, cough and rashes on the skin. That is, standard symptoms that are inherent to any person. But if symptoms are detected in a pregnant woman, the attending physician is obliged to pay double attention to the patient and very carefully study the nature of the allergy.
In half of the cases, the allergy is similar to toxicosis - the symptoms disappear on their own after a certain time (this happens at approximately 24-25 weeks of pregnancy), but there is no need to count on this. Not everyone experiences such a harmless course of the disease.
In addition, pregnant women aggravate the situation by introducing a lot of seasonal and exotic fruits into their diet, trying to provide themselves and the baby with a complete vitamin complex, and many expectant mothers, who before pregnancy tolerated contact with animals normally, begin to develop an allergy to wool.
And three more factors have a huge impact on the manifestation of allergies in pregnant women:
- weakened immune system;
- hormonal surge;
- increased protective reaction of the body.
In laboratory conditions, determining the cause of an allergic reaction in a pregnant woman can be quite difficult - the woman’s body begins to react negatively to literally everything. Therefore, many doctors are forced to make a presumptive diagnosis: pregnancy allergy.
To treat or not to treat?
This question should not arise a priori for pregnant women: an allergy is an abnormal state of the body, a disease that needs to be eliminated. You should not console yourself with the fact that an acquired allergy cannot have any negative effect on the fetus; the baby can be equally negatively affected by the weakening of the mother’s body, which independently fights allergens; antihistamines that the mother can use for allergies are also dangerous for the baby.
Will a pregnant woman be prescribed Zyrtec?
Most likely no. And not because it is such a dangerous medicine that can destroy the health of the unborn child. Zyrtec is a common antihistamine that does not stand out very much from a number of similar medications.
It will not be prescribed to you in the first trimester due to the undesirability of blocking histamines in the mother's body. In the early stages of pregnancy, these substances are “responsible” for the reliability of attachment of the fertilized egg to the wall of the uterus and the development of the embryo.
At later stages, Zyrtec is also not prescribed, but for a different reason: the drug has not undergone controlled clinical studies for the safety of use by pregnant women. Although studies of Zyrtec on pregnant animals did not show changes or complications in the course of pregnancy, they did not reveal a negative effect of the drug on the fetus, such results do not satisfy doctors, and while there are no adequate results of the effect of the active substance of the drug on the human fetus, Zyrtec is not prescribed to pregnant women practice.
Composition, action, pharmacokinetics of the drug
The active substance is cetrizine.
Excipients in Zyrtec tablets:
- cellulose;
- lactose;
- silica;
- titanium dioxide;
- magnesium stearate;
- macrogoal
Excipients in Zyrtec drops:
- propylene glycol;
- glycerol;
- sodium saccharinate;
- glacial acetic acid;
- methylparabenzene;
- propylparabenzene;
- distilled water.
The active substance relieves spasm of smooth muscles, prevents the development of swelling and inflammation, eliminates itching, and improves the general condition of the body.
It begins to act 20-60 minutes after entering the body, the duration of the therapeutic effect is about 24 hours, is metabolized in the liver, and excreted by the kidneys in an almost unchanged form.
Side effects
It should be noted that in case of an overdose or the body’s sensitivity to the components of the drug (and in pregnant women the body becomes extremely sensitive - and this is another reason not to take Zyrtec), the list of side effects of the drug becomes very impressive:
- tachycardia;
- irritability and even aggression;
- convulsions, fainting, fever;
- blurred vision;
- diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain;
- urinary disturbance.
Zyrtec by trimester
1st trimester
The use of the drug is prohibited. Antihistamine action is undesirable during the formation of the embryo.
2nd trimester
The drug is not used due to insufficient knowledge of its effects on the fetus.
3rd trimester
The drug is not used for the same reason as in the second trimester.
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Price for Zodak drops
The cost of this medicine on the Internet and in pharmacies today is loyal. The price depends on the release form. The most affordable are the tablets, which can be bought for 150 rubles and more. Drops can be bought for 190 rubles and more. For accelerated effects, you can purchase express tablets for 550 rubles. All figures are approximate and may differ by region or pharmacy chain. Examples of prices for regional pharmacies:
Zodak tablets 10 mg, 10 pcs. (Zentiva, Czech Republic) | 138 rub. |
Zodak tablets 10 mg, 30 pcs. (Zentiva, Czech Republic) | 272 rub. |
Zodak drops 10 mg/ml, 20 ml (Zentiva, Czech Republic) | 189 rub. |
Zodak tablets 5 mg, 28 pcs. (Zentiva, Czech Republic) | 489 rub. |
Zodak express tablets 5 mg, 7 pcs. (Zentiva,) | 209 rub. |
Tablets 10 mg, 10 pcs. (Zentiva, Czech Republic) | 139 rub. |
Composition and properties of the medicine
In pharmacies, Zodak antiallergic drops are sold in 20-ml bottles equipped with a convenient dispenser cap. When unopened, the drug can be stored for up to 3 years, from the date of start of use - no more than 2 weeks.
The main active ingredient of Zodak is cetirizine dihydrochloride (a powerful antihistamine component) . This component (10 mg/20 drops) blocks the chain of a consistent allergic reaction of the body to an irritant, thereby relieving the further development of skin and respiratory symptoms of this abnormal phenomenon.
In addition to the main active ingredient, Zodak contains:
- sodium acetate;
- glycerol 85%;
- propylene glycol;
- sodium saccharin;
- methyl-, propylparaben.
Drop effect:
- decongestant;
- antiexudative;
- antipruritic.
Thus, taking Zodak helps prevent the development of tissue swelling, spasm of smooth muscles, and increased permeability of capillary walls.
Cetrine and alcohol: mechanism of interaction
As a rule, in the annotations to these drugs they write that during the use of the medicine it is necessary to exercise due caution and use them only as a last resort - if the mother’s life is in danger.
Antihistamines that have not undergone in-depth laboratory research are prohibited for use by pregnant women due to a possible inadequate reaction of the body to the components of the drug. The side effects of drugs can manifest themselves in the most unexpected form: increased symptoms instead of eliminating them, the occurrence of fetal malnutrition, which is very undesirable before childbirth and can affect the activity of the newborn baby.
By and large, a lot depends on the first breath - including the launch of the respiratory system. A “poor” first breath can eventually affect the baby’s health - there is a risk that the child will suffer from respiratory diseases, especially pneumonia, in the future.
Auxiliary components (tablets):
- lactose monohydrate;
- magnesium stearate;
- povidone;
- starch.
Excipients (syrup):
- glycerol;
- propylene glycol;
- propyl parahydroxybenzoate;
- methyl parahydroxybenzoate;
- sorbitol;
- sodium saccharinate dihydrate;
- sodium acetate trihydrate;
- acetic acid;
- distilled water;
- fruit flavor (banana).
The drug has a pronounced anti-allergenic effect: eliminates itching and swelling, reduces the migration of inflamed cells, and effectively affects both the early and late stages of the allergic reaction.
It begins to act 20-60 minutes after entering the body.
It is quickly absorbed into the blood, binding to plasma proteins by 90-93%, poorly metabolized in the liver, and no accumulation of the active substance is observed in the body.
70% of the substance is excreted by the kidneys.
In a non-pregnant state, patients usually tolerate the drug easily, but even in this case, negative side effects are possible, including in the form of increased allergic symptoms:
- itching;
- redness;
- rash;
- swelling.
Possible reactions from the central nervous system (drowsiness, increased fatigue, dizziness), from the digestive system (dry mouth, nausea, dyspepsia).
Antihistamine, antiallergic (prevents the development and eases the course of allergic reactions), antipruritic, prevents the development of tissue edema, relieves spasm of smooth muscles. In therapeutic doses it practically does not cause a sedative effect.
During treatment, it is not recommended to drink alcoholic beverages and alcohol-containing drugs.
Cetrin is a popular tablet with antihistamine action, belonging to the third generation. They do not affect the nervous system, as a result of which a person does not feel drowsiness or lethargy after taking it, as evidenced by numerous reviews of those who have taken the drug. While taking the medicine, you can work actively or play sports. Muscle tone remains at the same level.
While taking this drug, you can take many other medications, since its compatibility is quite high. The active substance prevents the development of allergic reactions by blocking the movement of eosinophils. These tablets also normalize blood pressure if an anaphylactic condition has occurred.
However, it has been absolutely established that drinking Cetrin simultaneously with alcohol-containing drinks is prohibited, as this can cause negative health consequences. The compatibility of Cetrin and alcohol is so low that sometimes combined use can be fatal to a person.
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The fact is that wine or any other drink containing ethyl alcohol contributes to the formation of toxins in the body. The latter, in turn, often trigger allergic processes. Therefore, the expected effect when taken together does not manifest itself at best.
Taking Cetrin and drinking an alcoholic drink in a situation where a person already has allergies or asthma is extremely dangerous. The consequences of such a step can be expressed in a severe attack. This also threatens a person:
- loss of consciousness
- pressure drop to a critically dangerous value,
- tachycardia,
- swelling,
- itching.
In any case, the accumulation of ethanol in the body has a destructive effect on it. And if you drink this kind of drink and at the same time undergo treatment with pharmaceutical drugs, it means putting your life at risk.
In general, the accumulation of ethanol in tissues leads to the following:
- concentration of the substance in the brain;
- changes in blood composition;
- destruction of liver cells.
The breakdown of alcohol in the body occurs much faster than drugs. Antihistamines negatively affect the processes of ethanol elimination, which leads to a deterioration in a person’s general condition. If you drink alcohol during treatment with Cetrin, the composition of the blood will change: it will approach an acidic environment. Alcohol breakdown products will be excreted at a slower pace. This will cause symptoms such as:
- general weakness in the body;
- pain in the back of the head;
- hallucinogenic reactions;
- state of prolonged intoxication;
- tachycardia;
- high blood pressure;
- swelling of the skin;
- itching;
- stomach pain;
- fainting;
- skin rash.
The listed symptoms are not a complete list. Other negative manifestations may also occur that will significantly worsen the quality of life or put it at risk.
Medicines from the antihistamine line are designed to block the clinical manifestations of allergies. Hypersensitivity to certain substances is based on the irritant provoking the active production of organic structures present in the body that are part of the connective tissue of the immune system.
In the human body, colorless crystals called histamines play an important role in the process of maintaining life. Histamines can be in either an active or inactive (bound histamines) state. Inactive substances support the normal functioning of internal organs, but under the influence of an allergen their concentration increases, causing a number of unpleasant consequences:
- Drop in blood pressure, general weakness;
- Difficulty breathing with threat of suffocation;
- Tissue hyperemia, development of swelling.
The task of antihistamines is to block the release of bound histamines and their interaction with H1 receptors, which prevents the increase in allergic symptoms. Most often, allergy therapy is designed for a long period of time. It should also be noted that antihistamines only relieve symptoms, but do not cure the disease. Possessing approximately the same principle of action, they have an impressive list of rather serious side effects.
The selection of medications for allergies is based on confirmation of the type of disease, taking into account already diagnosed chronic pathologies and the patient’s health status. In most cases, not only antihistamines, but also other medications are not compatible with alcohol.
During simultaneous use of the drug and ethyl alcohol, a disulfiram-like reaction may occur. The components of the product react with ethanol molecules and cause intoxication. It may manifest itself with the following symptoms:
- vomiting and nausea;
- skin redness;
- increased body temperature;
- high blood pressure;
- tachycardia;
- hard breath;
- headache;
- limb spasms;
- acute pain in the stomach;
- swelling;
- fainting state.
Also, in some cases, ethyl alcohol inhibits the work of the medicine, as a result of which free histamines continue to be produced and intensify the signs of the disease.
To avoid the development of possible negative consequences, you should completely stop drinking alcohol while taking the drug.
In medical practice, cases have been recorded in which patients with a disease such as alcoholism fell into a coma after taking antihistamines and large amounts of ethyl alcohol.
Reviews
Olga, 27 years old
This is the second spring in a row that I have given my child this medicine. In the summer, he actively developed a reaction to peaches and other fruits. The whole body was mercilessly falling asleep, the child did not eat well, and was constantly capricious. The doctor prescribed this remedy, we took it for two weeks - the result was good. The symptoms have disappeared, but we still don’t risk eating fruit.
Nikolay, 32 years old
I periodically take pills for myself against allergic reactions. An allergy to pollen manifests itself - in the spring my nose constantly itches, I sneeze, I walk around with a runny nose all the time, and my throat also starts to get sore. I take the course for a month. There is a result, I haven’t noticed any side effects.
Veronica, 41 years old
For children over 8 years old, this syrup is the best choice for effective and safe relief from allergy symptoms. My daughter developed redness after contact with a barn cat. I have been giving her the syrup for a week and a half now, I calculated the dose from the instructions. Redness no longer appears.
Zodak for newborns up to one year: indications for use and features
With the advent of new technologies for the production of food, clothing, toys and environmental pollution, allergies in modern children have become a common occurrence.
This has become especially common in infants, due to the fact that the immune system and digestive system are not fully developed. The reason for its appearance may be the mother's consumption of low-quality products during pregnancy. First aid for allergies for children under one year of age should be provided with high-quality and effective medicine. Zodak is a fast-acting new generation remedy that effectively blocks the development and spread of allergens in the body and has an antihistamine effect.
The instructions indicate the age for taking the medicine from 12 months, but many pediatricians prescribe the drug starting from 2 weeks of age, reducing the dosage and using it according to a special gentle regimen.
Zodak is produced in 3 forms for taking the medicine orally:
- Coated tablets Packages can be 1, 3, 6, 9, 10 blisters.
- Syrup (from 2 years) in glass containers of 100 ml. Packaged in a cardboard box, into which the manufacturer includes a measuring spoon.
- Drops (prescribed for newborns and children up to 1 g) Glass bottle with a colorless and transparent liquid that is odorless - 20 ml, with a special dispenser cap under the lid. The packaging is bright cardboard, rectangular in shape.
The drops contain the active ingredient - cetirizine 10 mg/ml, as well as other substances and chemical components.
The syrup contains the same active ingredient and auxiliary components as the drops, but with the addition of Banana flavoring, sorbitol, sodium acetate trihydrate.
The tablets contain the active ingredient - cetirizine, additional components - corn starch, magnesium stearate, lactose monohydrate and chemical compounds that make up the tablet shell.
The pharmacological action of the drug is an antiallergic agent.
Zodak classifies the drug as a new 2nd generation drug; they have a number of advantages, such as long-lasting action and lack of sedation. It is extremely rare for addiction, intolerance, or allergy to the drug itself to occur.
The drug also has a high ability to act on receptors that are located in the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, bronchi, genitourinary system and on blood vessels - their inner lining.
The active substance, cetirizine in the form of dihydrochloride, has a blocking effect on histamines, while closing the receptors. Thus, the antihistamine gate helps prevent the harmful effects of histamines. The negative impact on histamines, which have already affected the receptors, is reduced. All this allows you to gradually remove allergic symptoms.
The form of the product is drops, the most practical for oral administration in children from 2 weeks of age, the volume of liquid is not large, the child swallows it without difficulty. And the rapid effect of the drug will allow the baby to feel better quickly. Within 3-5 days, the child’s body recovers from exposure to allergens, provided that it is taken regularly according to the regimen.
Taking the drug during meals, before or after meals does not significantly reduce the rate of absorption of the drug into the blood. It appears in the blood plasma within 25 minutes - 1 hour.
The drug is completely absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract. 65-70% of the drug is excreted by the genitourinary system. The cetirizine component quickly binds to plasma proteins by more than 90%.
Zodak drops act in most children under 1 year of age within 25 minutes, in others within 60–90 minutes.
The drug has its own indications for use. Among them:
- redness and rash on the skin;
- allergic rhinitis caused by seasonal (flowering, dust) and other allergens;
- conjunctivitis caused by allergens;
- itching;
- urticaria (dermatosis);
- diathesis;
- dermatitis of various etiologies and pathogenesis;
- Quincke's edema;
- cough, bronchospasm;
- hay fever
Diathesis in a small child
The drug has a number of contraindications. These include:
- individual intolerance, sensitivity to chemical additives and components of the drug;
- age up to one year (drops), up to 2 years (syrup), but can be taken as indicated by a doctor’s prescription;
- lactation, breastfeeding;
- pregnancy;
- for diseases of the urinary system and liver;
- epilepsy.
The drug is safe for oral administration (oral cavity, nasal passage) for children under 1 year of age, but it is important to follow the regimen and dosage regimen. When taking the medicine, you need to carefully monitor the baby's breathing and cardiac activity, since it can depress the baby's nervous system, which can lead to stopping breathing movements.
If an adverse reaction occurs within 2-3 hours after taking the medicine, it is canceled and first aid measures are taken.
To take drops to babies through the mouth, the product is mixed into breast milk, baby food or water (given from a bottle with a nipple, from a syringe or spoon).
Before starting feeding, the drug is given, and then fed as usual:
- age from 2 weeks to 3 months – 1 time per day, 2 drops;
- age from 3 months to 6 months – 3-4 drops daily;
- age from 6 months to 12 months – 1 time per day, 5 drops.
The instructions should be strictly followed or taken according to the regimen of a pediatrician or neonatologist.
An overdose of the drug in babies under 12 months occurs from 10 mg of the substance (exceeded dose by 5 times), in an adult from 50 mg. It causes severe anxiety, tremors, diarrhea, nausea, dilation of the baby's pupils, itching, drowsiness, tearfulness, and tachycardia.
In case of overdose, you must immediately provide first aid and call an ambulance. Make the child drink as much purified water as possible and induce vomiting.
For newborns, you can use a syringe without a needle, draw water and carefully pour several syringes of water into the mouth, slightly raising the head up, but only so that the child does not choke.
It is also necessary to provide absorbent agents. Upon arrival of the ambulance, doctors will rinse the stomach and provide supportive and symptomatic therapy. In more complex cases, they are hospitalized in the toxicology department.
Adverse reactions may occur when taking the drug. Among them:
- bloating;
- nausea;
- vomit;
- dizziness;
- refusal of food;
- agitation or lethargy;
- cessation of breathing;
- edema;
- poisoning;
- cardiopalmus;
- diarrhea;
- urinary retention;
- rash;
- itching;
- hives.
Hives on the cheeks
Before using Zodak, it is important to tell your pediatrician or neonatologist if you are taking other medications.
The use of Zodak with other drugs that contain theophylline (dose per day 400 mg) reduces the effectiveness of Zodak treatment.
Zodak is not recommended for diabetes mellitus, unless prescribed by a doctor according to an individual regimen.
Contraindicated for use in premature infants under 36 weeks.
Strictly follow the regimen and regularity of use for diseases of the urinary system (renal failure) or liver diseases.
The medicine does not require special storage conditions. Store at temperatures between 9°C and 26°C, in a dry, ventilated place.
Place the Zodak in inaccessible areas away from children and people with mental health problems.
Once opened, it is suitable for consumption for six months (6 months).
Dispensed in a pharmacy without a prescription.
Zodak has few analogues. Among them:
- Fenistil drops. The active ingredient, dimethindene maleate, belongs to the first generation drugs. Relieves allergy symptoms and eliminates itching. The product is officially approved for use by children from the 1st month of life. Used according to identical Zodak indications, as well as for food allergies. Used in short courses from 1 week to 10 days; if symptoms disappear earlier, stop taking the drug.
- Zyrtec drops. The main substance is cetirizine, a 2nd generation medicine, which is identical to Zodak. Against allergies and against itching, taken from the first year of the baby’s life. Use until allergic symptoms disappear.
- Parlasin drops. The main substance is cetirizine, a 2nd generation drug. Relieves allergic symptoms and eliminates itching, as well as swelling, acts on the body as an antispasmodic. Officially approved for children from 1 year. Indications are the same as for Zodak, as well as in complex treatment for bronchial asthma. Used in a short course from 1 to 1.5 weeks, for asthma - a long course of up to 1 month.
Prices for the product in different release forms are shown in the table below.
How to recognize a fake
Diazolin
Unfortunately, it often happens that the drug is used incorrectly, which is why it not only does not work, but also has the opposite effect.
First of all, it is important to understand that symptoms similar to an allergic reaction are not always what they are. These could be diseases of the nasopharynx, eyes, skin or digestive tract, infectious pathology, autoimmune problems.
Therefore, a doctor should prescribe medicine only after a thorough examination.
If the rash, cough and other similar symptoms do not go away, it’s worth thinking about whether this is the reason for the treatment? In addition, the dosage or frequency of administration may be incorrect.
What are the reasons why the medicine worked at first and then stopped helping altogether?
- A bacterial or viral infection may be associated.
- There are cases where the body develops tolerance to a certain substance. In this situation, it is necessary to consult an allergist and change the drug.
Indications for use Zodak
- Seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva (mucous membrane) of the eyes, which is caused by contact with an allergen);
- Itchy allergic dermatoses;
- Hay fever (hay fever);
- Urticaria (including chronic idiopathic);
- Quincke's edema (significant enlargement of part or all of the face and limbs when exposed to various biological and chemical factors).
Depending on the form of release, the drug is prescribed to children: tablets - from 6 years; syrup – from 2 years; drops for oral administration – from 1 year.
Storage rules
In order to maintain the effect of Zodax after use and not provoke the development of side effects, you must carefully read the following storage instructions:
- Zodak should be stored in a dark room with room humidity.
- The average storage temperature is 20 degrees.
- If all rules are followed, the drug can be stored for up to 3 years.
Pay attention to the date of manufacture of the medicine indicated in the instructions before you start taking it. Never use an expired product.
Zodak tablets
Pharmacokinetics of the drug
Taking the drug during meals, before or after meals does not significantly reduce the rate of absorption of the drug into the blood. It appears in the blood plasma within 25 minutes - 1 hour.
The drug is completely absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract. 65-70% of the drug is excreted by the genitourinary system. The cetirizine component quickly binds to plasma proteins by more than 90%.
Zodak drops act in most children under 1 year of age within 25 minutes, in others within 60–90 minutes.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose appear most often if the patient accidentally or intentionally took more than 50 mg of Zodak. When taking this dose, severe drowsiness, irritability, fatigue, severe weakness, and increased heart rate appear.
The patient may complain of constipation and urinary retention, dry mouth.
If an overdose is detected, gastric lavage is necessary. Then activated carbon or another enterosorbent is prescribed in an age-specific dosage.
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There is no specific antidote for cetirizine, so treatment is prescribed depending on the symptoms identified.
Forms of release of the drug Zodax
There are several known forms of Zodax, which have the same active ingredient in the composition, but differ in some other characteristics. Let's consider them further:
- Zodak in tablets . The most common option and most suitable for treating adults. Its main advantage is a fairly rapid impact on the source of the symptom and, accordingly, its suppression. Zodak tablets are recommended to be taken with caution by people with liver or kidney problems, as well as by people over 60 years of age.
- Zodak in the form of syrup . Convenient release form, suitable for children over 2 years old. The main advantage is the taste, as well as the ability to take Zodax for allergies as quickly as possible, even on the road, because this does not require drinking water, and a measuring cup comes with the medicine itself.
- Zodak in drops . The most universal method of treatment is to use Zodak in drops in accordance with the instructions. The drug in this form is suitable even for babies from 6 months old, and has virtually no negative effects when used by persons over 60 years of age.
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Zodak tablets, drops and syrup
Despite the small number of side effects and contraindications, taking Zodax should be started by visiting a specialist doctor and receiving individual recommendations for use.