Cetirizine (commonly supplied as cetirizine hydrochloride)
Brand names (as verified)
Cetzine; Alerid; Zyrtec (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablet strength is 10 mg; paediatric and other formulations may use different strengths.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An antihistamine used to relieve allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching associated with hives. It reduces symptoms but does not treat the underlying cause of an allergy.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use after a known serious hypersensitivity reaction to cetirizine or a product ingredient. Product-specific restrictions should be checked before use.
Important precautions
May cause drowsiness or reduced alertness, even when symptoms seem mild. Take care with driving, alcohol or sedating medicines. Kidney function and the patient’s age may affect suitability and product selection.
Common side effects
Possible effects include sleepiness, fatigue, dry mouth, headache and dizziness.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Severe allergic reactions are uncommon but require emergency care. Seek medical advice for significant difficulty urinating or other unexpected severe symptoms.
Important interactions
Alcohol and sedating medicines may increase drowsiness. Tell a healthcare professional about all medicines and supplements, especially those that affect alertness or kidney function.
Allergy considerations
Avoid after a previous serious reaction to cetirizine or any ingredient in the formulation. Check the label for excipients relevant to the individual.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Discuss use during pregnancy with a clinician or pharmacist, particularly if regular treatment is needed or other medicines are being taken.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Seek advice before regular use while breastfeeding, especially when nursing a premature or medically fragile infant. Monitor for unexpected effects in the infant.
Children and older adults
Choose an age-appropriate formulation and follow its label. Some products require dose adjustment or professional guidance for children and people with kidney impairment.
Storage
Store in original packaging at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.
Missed dose
Take a missed scheduled dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose; do not double the dose. For as-needed use, follow the label.
Overdose
Excessive amounts may cause marked sleepiness, restlessness or other symptoms. Seek urgent advice if an overdose is suspected.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
References
Medical Encyclopedia — Medical Encyclopediasource(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
Cetirizine (commonly supplied as cetirizine hydrochloride)
Brand names (as verified)
Cetzine; Alerid; Zyrtec (brand availability varies by market)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Common tablet strength is 10 mg; paediatric and other formulations may use different strengths.
Prescription classification
Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
An antihistamine used to relieve allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching associated with hives. It reduces symptoms but does not treat the underlying cause of an allergy.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Do not use after a known serious hypersensitivity reaction to cetirizine or a product ingredient. Product-specific restrictions should be checked before use.
Important precautions
May cause drowsiness or reduced alertness, even when symptoms seem mild. Take care with driving, alcohol or sedating medicines. Kidney function and the patient’s age may affect suitability and product selection.
Common side effects
Possible effects include sleepiness, fatigue, dry mouth, headache and dizziness.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Severe allergic reactions are uncommon but require emergency care. Seek medical advice for significant difficulty urinating or other unexpected severe symptoms.
Important interactions
Alcohol and sedating medicines may increase drowsiness. Tell a healthcare professional about all medicines and supplements, especially those that affect alertness or kidney function.
Allergy considerations
Avoid after a previous serious reaction to cetirizine or any ingredient in the formulation. Check the label for excipients relevant to the individual.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Discuss use during pregnancy with a clinician or pharmacist, particularly if regular treatment is needed or other medicines are being taken.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Seek advice before regular use while breastfeeding, especially when nursing a premature or medically fragile infant. Monitor for unexpected effects in the infant.
Children and older adults
Choose an age-appropriate formulation and follow its label. Some products require dose adjustment or professional guidance for children and people with kidney impairment.
Storage
Store in original packaging at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.
Missed dose
Take a missed scheduled dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose; do not double the dose. For as-needed use, follow the label.
Overdose
Excessive amounts may cause marked sleepiness, restlessness or other symptoms. Seek urgent advice if an overdose is suspected.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
References
Medical Encyclopedia — Medical Encyclopediasource(Regulatory / approved product label (e.g. CDSCO))
