Cetirizine

What is Cetirizine?

Cetirizine is an antihistamine medication containing the active ingredient cetirizine hydrochloride, which is taken to treat symptoms of hay fever and allergies. These symptoms can appear as sneezing, itchy or swollen skin, a blocked or itchy nose and watery or itchy eyes.

What is cetirizine used for?

Cetirizine is a non-drowsy antihistamine and is used to help relieve symptoms of hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis), pet allergies and allergies caused by dust. Cetirizine can also be used to treat conjunctivitis, eczema, hives and allergic reactions to some bites and stings.

How does Cetirizine work?

Cetirizine works by blocking histamine receptors and reducing the symptoms of an allergic reaction. When the body detects an allergen, it releases the chemical histamine to bind to histamine receptors located outside of the central nervous system, which then starts the process of an allergic reaction.

How should I take Cetirizine 10mg Tablets and what dosage should I take?

Adults should take one 10mg tablet of Cetirizine daily with a glass of water, whilst children aged between 6-12 years should take half of one 10mg tablet twice a day. The duration of your Cetirizine course will depend on the type and severity of your allergy symptoms.

How long does it take for Cetirizine to work?

Cetirizine begins to work within an hour of taking a dose, and in most cases the effects of the recommended dose will persist for a minimum of 24 hours. If you have missed a dose of Cetirizine, take a tablet as soon as you remember, but do not take a double dose to compensate for the forgotten tablet.

What is the difference between Cetirizine and Loratadine?

Loratadine is another non-drowsy antihistamine sold under the brand name Clarityn, which contains the active ingredient Loratadine. The effectiveness of both Cetirizine and Loratadine is similar, however it is said that Cetirizine may have a quicker onset of action.

Does Cetirizine cause drowsiness?

Cetirizine does not cause drowsiness. Cetirizine is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine because it acts on peripheral histamine receptors, unlike older antihistamines.

Who should not take Cetirizine?

If you are pregnant, please talk to your doctor before taking Cetirizine. You should also talk to your doctor before taking Cetirizine if you have kidney problems, predisposition factors of urinary retention, epilepsy, or are on any other medications that could interact with Cetirizine.

How do you store Cetirizine?

Cetirizine does not require any special requirements when storing, just out of sight and reach of children and do not take any doses past the expiry date printed.