3. Cetirizine

Cetirizine

  • Cetirizine is called a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can still cause drowsiness in a few people. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which would be dangerous if you are not fully alert. If you drink alcohol, do so only in moderation, and be aware of its effects on you.
Type of medicine Antihistamine (non-drowsy)
Used for Allergies such as hayfever in adults and children over 2 years of age
Allergic skin rashes in adults and children over 6 years of age
Also called Piriteze® Allergy
Pollenshield® Hayfever, Pollenshield® Hayfever Relief
Benadryl® Allergy
Zirtek® Allergy
Available as Tablets and oral solution

Exposure to substances such as pollen, animal fur, house dust or an insect bite can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms which can include skin rashes, sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose and itching. Cetirizine stops the effects of histamine and helps to relieve these symptoms.

Before taking cetirizine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have kidney problems.
  • If you suffer from epilepsy.
  • If you have porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
  • Before taking cetirizine, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take cetirizine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.
  • Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. It is not important whether you take them before or after food.
  • If you are giving cetirizine to a child, make sure you follow the dosing instructions carefully. The dose you will need to give will depend upon the age of your child. Cetirizine is not suitable for children under 2 years of age.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take it when you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.
  • Cetirizine is called a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can sometimes cause drowsiness in some people. If you are affected do not drive or operate machinery or do any other jobs which would be dangerous if you are not fully alert.
  • If you drink alcohol while you are taking cetirizine, be aware of its effects on you and do not drink more than moderate amounts.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with cetirizine.

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Drowsiness, tiredness, dizziness If you are affected, do not drive or operate machinery or do other jobs which would be dangerous if you are not fully alert. It is best to avoid alcohol as this will make you more drowsy
Dry mouth Try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free sweets
Feeling sick Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods
Diarrhoea Drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids
Headache, sore throat, irritation of the nose Ask your pharmacist for further advice

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Cetirizine 10 mg Tablets, Dexcel Pharma Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated February 2009.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 14/12/2010 Document ID: 3485  Version: 22 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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