What are Cetirizine Tablets?

Cetirizine is an antihistamine medicine that relieves the symptoms of allergies.

It's used to treat:

• hay fever
  
• conjunctivitis (red, itchy eye)
• eczema
• hives (urticaria)
• reactions to insect bites and stings
• some food allergies

Cetirizine is known as a non-drowsy antihistamine. It's much less likely to make you feel sleepy than some other antihistamines.

Key facts about Cetirizine Hay Fever Tablets

• It's usual to take Cetirizine once a day. Children sometimes take it twice a day.
  
• Cetirizine is classed as a non-drowsy antihistamine, but some people still find it makes them feel quite sleepy.
• Common side effects include headaches, dry mouth, feeling sick, dizziness, stomach pain and diarrhoea.
• It's best not to drink alcohol while you're taking Cetirizine as it can make you feel sleepy.

How much Cetirizine to take

• The usual dose in adults is 10mg once daily.
  
• Doses are usually lower for people with kidney problems.
• For children, your doctor will use your child's weight or age to work out the right dose.
• If you have bought Cetirizine for a child, follow the instructions on the packet.
• Depending on their age, children may take Cetirizine twice a day. In this case, try to space the doses 10 to 12 hours apart.

How to take Cetirizine

• You can take Cetirizine with or without food.
  
• Always take cetirizine tablets or capsules with a drink of water, milk or juice. Swallow them whole. Do not chew them.

When to take Cetirizine

• You may only need to take Cetirizine on a day you have symptoms - for example, if you have been exposed to a trigger like animal hair.
  
• Or you may need to take it regularly to prevent symptoms - for example, to stop hay fever during spring and summer.