CINNARIZINE

Moderately Sedative Antihistamine

Cross and Allergic Reactions

Usage

Amoxicillin should not be taken if one has- Mononucleosis, Colitis, Diabetes, Renal Dysfunction, Pku (Phenylketonuria), Hemodialysis--Dose needs to be decreased when in pregnancy

Type

Cinnarizine is a moderately sedative antihistaminic

Similar to Promethazine, Cinnarizine also blocks H1 receptors- bronchoconstriction, intestinal contraction and smooth muscle contraction

It act against wheal, flare and itch
Anti allergic reaction- against urticaria, angioedema and itching
CNS depression
High anticholinergic action

History

Cinnarizine was first synthesised by Janssen Pharmaceutical in 1955.

Usage

Use-

For allergic reaction such as urticaria or angioedema

Cinnarizine is predominantly used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness, vertigo and Ménière's disease

Cross and Allergic Reactions

It cross reacts with other antihistamines and CNS depressants, and has no allergic reactions.

It reacts with Alcohol (Alcohol will increase dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment) and CNS depressants.

Side Effects

Side Effects-

Drowsiness,
Dry mouth, constipation, blurring of vision, difficulty urinating or headache.
In children, stomach pain and vomiting may occur.
Fall in BP with injectable form
Some people may become restless, excited and are unable to sleep
Can cause convulsions at toxic dose

Should not be taken if

Should not take if one has- CNS depression, respiratory depression or heart failure

Shelf Life

Shelf Life:- 3 years from manufacturing date.

90% drugs(approved by the FDA) are perfectly good even 15 years after the expiry date, the only exception to this may be tetracycline. If the drugs are kept in a cool environment, like a fridge then they can be used even longer. The expiry date only marks that now there isn’t 100% effectiveness.