General MedicineOTC AvailablePregnancy Cat. Not classifiedFDA Yes
Cetirizine
CETIIRIZINE
Uses temporarily relieves these symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies: ■ runny nose ■ sneezing ■ itchy, watery eyes ■ itching of the nose or throat
Medically reviewed by MedCentralHub Medical Review Board, Licensed Pharmacists & Physicians ·
Brand names:Cetirizine
Quick Reference
Medicine ClassGeneral Medicine
FDA ApprovedYes
PregnancyCategory Not classified
Quick Facts
- Active ingredient
- CETIIRIZINE
- Medicine class
- General Medicine
- Brand names
- Cetirizine
- Availability
- Over-the-counter (OTC)
- Pregnancy category
- Not classified
- FDA approved
- Yes
What Is Cetirizine?
Uses temporarily relieves these symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies: ■ runny nose ■ sneezing ■ itchy, watery eyes ■ itching of the nose or throat
Cetirizine (CETIIRIZINE) belongs to the General Medicine class of medications. It was first approved by the FDA in Yes. This medication is available over-the-counter without a prescription.
Key Safety Information
- •Always follow the dose recommended by your healthcare professional. Taking more than prescribed increases the risk of side effects including serious complications.
- •Seek emergency care if you experience signs of an allergic reaction — hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash. Stop the medication and call your doctor immediately.
- •Some medications can increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, a history of heart attack or stroke, or any pre-existing health condition.
- •Avoid or limit alcohol while taking Cetirizine. Do not drink alcohol without first discussing it with your healthcare provider as it may increase adverse effects.
- •Take Cetirizine with food or a full glass of water if stomach upset occurs. Stop use and talk to your doctor if you experience persistent stomach pain or GI symptoms.
- •Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you take. Some combinations significantly increase the risk of harm.
This is a summary only. Always read the full prescribing information and consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Uses & Indications
Cetirizine is prescribed for the following conditions. Some uses are FDA-approved indications; others may be evidence-based off-label uses. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Uses temporarily relieves these symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies: ■ runny nose ■ sneezing ■ itchy, watery eyes ■ itching of the nose or throat
Dosage Guide
The following are general dosing guidelines only. Your actual dose should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your condition, renal/hepatic function, and other medications.
AD
Adult Dosage
Directions adults and children 6 years and over ■ one 10 mg tablet once daily; do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms. adults 65 years and over ■ ask a doctor children under 6 years of age ■ ask a doctor consumers with liver or ■ ask a doctor kidney disease
Available Forms
Available Strengths
Side Effects
Common
Serious
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients or to an antihistamine containing hydroxyzine
Rare
Medicine Interactions
Always inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about ALL medications you take, including prescriptions, OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
MajorModerateMinor
Warnings & Contraindications
Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients or to an antihistamine containing hydroxyzine
How Cetirizine Works
Pharmacokinetics
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Not classified
Breastfeeding
Many medications pass into breast milk in varying amounts. Before using Cetirizinewhile breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider or pharmacist — they can weigh your dose, your infant's age, and available lactation safety data to find the safest option for you and your baby.
Storage & Handling
Other information ■ store between 20° and 25°C (68° and 77°F) ■ contains no ingredient made from a gluten-containing grain (Wheat, barley or rye)
Frequently Asked Questions
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- Detail
Cetirizine dosage guide
Adult, pediatric, renal, and hepatic dosing for Cetirizine
- Detail
Cetirizine side effects
Complete adverse effect profile including common, serious, and rare reactions
Sources & References
- • FDA Prescribing Information — Official labeling and package insert for Cetirizine
- • U.S. National Library of Medicine — MedlinePlus drug information
- • American Hospital Formulary Service (AHFS) — Clinical pharmacology monograph
- • PubMed / MEDLINE — View clinical studies
Last reviewed by MedCentralHub Medical Review Board · MedCentralHub Editorial Policy
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.