Description:

Rhizin Tablets 100 by Kinapharma is a generic antihistamine medication containing cetirizine hydrochloride. It provides 24-hour relief from symptoms of allergic conditions, including seasonal/perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic conjunctivitis, chronic urticaria (hives), itching, sneezing, runny nose, watery/itchy/red eyes, and reactions to insect bites/stings. As a second-generation H1-receptor antagonist, it blocks histamine effects with low sedation risk compared to older antihistamines, making it suitable for daytime use in adults and children (typically 6 years and older).

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC). No prescription required in Ghana; widely available in pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy, MyMutti, Trafalgar Gate Pharma) and chemical shops.

Therapeutic Category:

Antihistamine / Anti-allergic agent (second-generation H1-receptor antagonist for allergic rhinitis and urticaria).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Each tablet contains: Cetirizine hydrochloride 10 mg. Excipients: Standard tablet components (e.g., lactose, starch, magnesium stearate; refer to label for full list—no additional actives).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: 10 mg strength tablets (standard adult/child dose; “100” refers to pack size of 100 tablets, often as 10 x 10 blister strips; differs from Rhizin Syrup 30ml/60ml paediatric variants by Kinapharma).

Consume Type:

Oral (tablet; swallow whole with water; can be taken with or without food).

Directions/Usage: Adults and children 6 years and older: 1 tablet (10 mg) once daily (or ½ tablet twice daily if preferred). Children 2-5 years (if advised by doctor): Lower dose, often syrup preferred. Take at the same time daily for consistent relief. Use for short-term (e.g., allergy season) or as directed; do not exceed recommended dose. For children under 6 years or severe cases: Consult doctor/pharmacist.

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness/fatigue (mild, occurs in <10% of users)
• Headache, dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea, abdominal discomfort
• Rare: Palpitations, excitability (especially children), allergic reactions (rash, swelling) Generally well-tolerated; side effects are less sedating than first-generation antihistamines.

Package Type:

Blister packs (typically 10 tablets per strip; total 100 tablets in 10 x 10 strips, packed in a carton box).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25-30°C), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep in original packaging and out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• May cause mild drowsiness—caution with driving/machinery or alcohol (though low risk).
• Caution in severe kidney impairment (dose reduction or avoidance), epilepsy, or glaucoma.
• Not recommended for children under 2 years without medical advice (use syrup variants for younger kids).
• Consult doctor if symptoms persist >7-10 days, worsen, or include fever/shortness of breath (may indicate infection).
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Use if benefits outweigh risks—consult doctor (crosses placenta/excreted in milk).
• Avoid combining with other sedating medications. Discontinue if unusual effects occur.

Product Substitutes: Other cetirizine 10 mg tablets in Ghana: Generic cetirizine tablets (various importers), Zyrtec (original if available), Alerid, Cetzine, or brands like Relent. Alternatives: Loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), or levocetirizine (Xyzal)—consult pharmacist for non-sedating or symptom-specific options (e.g., nasal sprays for rhinitis).

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Kinapharma Limited

Country of Origin:

Ghana.