Absence of QTc Prolongation with Cetirizine in Children Aged 6 to 11 Years

Background In previous clinical trials, cetirizine has been shown to be efficacious in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), perennial allergic rhinitis, and chronic idiopathic urticaria when given once daily. As significant QT prolongation and cardiac arrhythmias have been reported with some of the newer antihistamines, the electrocardiographic effects of cetirizine were evaluated. A previous study in normal, healthy, adult volunteers had demonstrated that cetirizine does not prolong the QT interval at up to six times the maximum clinical dose. Objective The intent of this study was to evaluate the electrocardiographic effects of cetirizine in children. Methods and Patients As part of a randomized, 4-week, controlled clinical trial, electrocardiograms (ECGs) were obtained for 119 children aged 6 to 11 years with SAR. Participants in this trial received either a placebo (N = 40), 10 mg of cetirizine (N = 44), or 5 mg of cetirizine (N = 35). The QT interval was measured on a 12-lead ECG at the...