Key facts about Zyrtec
What is Zyrtec?
Zyrtec is the brand name for cetirizine and is available comes in many different formulations like oral tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, orally disintegrating tablets, and oral liquids.
What dosages is Zyrtec available in?
Zyrtec is available comes in many different formulations, like tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, orally disintegrating tablets, and oral liquids in various strengths.
What is Zyrtec used for?
- Zyrtec is an antihistamine and is used for the following:
- Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat)
- Relief of itchiness due to chronic (long-term) hives in children ages 6 months to under 6 years old
How does Zyrtec work?
Zyrtec is a second-generation antihistamine. It blocks histamine, a natural chemical in your body that can cause allergy symptoms like itchiness, itchy eyes, or runny nose. By blocking histamine, Zyrtec helps relieve allergy symptoms.
How do I take Zyrtec?
- Depending on the manufacturer and formulation, your medication can have different amounts of cetirizine in each dose and age cut-offs for use.
- The directions can be different depending on the product you have. Be sure to check the medication box for specific instructions. In general:
- Ages under 6 years: Ask your child’s pediatrician.
- Ages 6 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 5 mg or 10 mg once per day, depending on how severe your allergy symptoms are. The maximum dose is 10 mg per day.
- Ages 65 years and older: Ask your primary care provider.
- Oral liquids
- Ages under 2 years of age: Ask your child’s pediatrician.
- Ages 2 to under 6 years: The typical dose is 2.5 mL (2.5 mg) by mouth once per day. If needed, the dose can be raised to 5 mL (5 mg) once per day or 2.5 mL (2.5 mg) twice per day. The maximum dose is 5 mL (5 mg) per day.
- Ages 6 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 5 mL (5 mg) or 10 mL (10 mg) by mouth once per day, depending on how severe your allergy symptoms are. The maximum dose is 10 mL (10 mg) per day.
- Ages 65 years and older: The typical dose is 5 mL (5 mg) by mouth once per day. The maximum dose is 5 mL (5 mg) per day.
- Your dose might differ if you have liver or kidney problems.
Is it safe for me to take Zyrtec?
Zyrtec is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have an allergy to cetirizine or to another antihistamine called hydroxyzine (Vistaril).
Zyrtec Common Side Effects
- Common side effects of Zyrtec:
- Sleepiness
- Tiredness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Stomach pain
- Cough
Zyrtec Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Zyrtec. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
Accidentally taking too much medication: fast heartbeat, flushing, extreme sleepiness, hallucinations, changes in vision, irritability in children
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Zyrtec
- There are no major drug interactions listed for Zyrtec. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking.
Who makes Zyrtec?
Pfizer Inc.
Is Zyrtec safe in pregnancy?
There are no adequate and
well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Zyrtec should be used in pregnancy only if clearly needed.













