Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 5mg (generic, Zyrtec)
- 10mg (generic, Zyrtec)
tablet, oral-disintegrating
- 10mg (Zyrtec Allergy)
tablet, chewable
- 5mg (generic, Zyrtec)
- 10mg (generic, Zyrtec)
syrup
- 5mg/5mL (generic)
solution
- 5mg/5mL (generic)
injectable solution
- 10mg/mL (Quzyttir)
Allergies/Hay Fever/Urticaria
PO
Perennial and seasonal allergic and vasomotor rhinitis; relief of symptoms from colds, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylactic reactions, pruritus, allergic conjunctivitis
5-10 mg PO qDay, depending on severity of symptoms; not to exceed 10 mg qDay
IV
Indicated for acute urticaria
10 mg IV push q24hr PRN
Dosing Modifications
Renal impairment
-
PO
- GFR >50 mL/min: Dose adjustment not necessary
- GFR ≤50 mL/min: 5 mg PO qDay
- Peritoneal dialysis: 5 mg PO qDay
- Intermittent hemodialysis: 5 mg PO qDay; may also administer 3 times weekly
-
IV
- Mild-to-severe and patients on dialysis: No dosage adjustment necessary; monitor for antihistaminic side effects
Hepatic impairment
PO: Dose adjustment not provided by manufacturer's label
IV: No dosage adjustment necessary; monitor for antihistaminic side effects in this patient population
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 5mg (generic, Zyrtec)
- 10mg (generic, Zyrtec)
tablet, oral-disintegrating
- 10mg (Zyrtec Allergy)
tablet, chewable
- 5mg (generic, Zyrtec)
- 10mg (generic, Zyrtec)
syrup
- 5mg/5mL (generic)
solution
- 5mg/5mL (generic)
injectable solution
- 10mg/mL (Quzyttir)
Allergies/Hay Fever/Urticaria
PO
- Perennial and seasonal allergic and vasomotor rhinitis
- <2 years: Safety and efficacy not established
- 2-6 years: 2.5 mg (0.5 teaspoon) oral solution PO qDay; can increase to 5 mg PO qDay or 2.5 mg PO twice daily; not to exceed 5 mg qDay
- >6 years: 5-10 mg PO qDay, depending on severity of symptoms; not to exceed 10 mg qDay
IV
- Indicated for acute urticaria in adults and children aged ≥6 months
- 6 months to 5 years: 2.5 mg IV push q24hr PRN
- 6 to <12 years: 5 or 10 mg depending on symptom severity IV push q24hr PRN
- ≥12 years: 10 mg IV push q24hr PRN
Dosing Modifications
Renal impairment
-
PO
- GFR ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2: Dose adjustment not necessary
- GFR 10-29 mL/min/1.73 m2: Decrease dose by 50%
- GFR <10 mL/min/1.73 m2: Not recommended
- Intermittent hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis: Decrease dose by 50%
-
IV
- Mild-to-severe and patients on dialysis: No dosage adjustment necessary; monitor for antihistaminic side effects
Hepatic impairment
- PO: Dose adjustment not provided by manufacturer's label
- IV: No dosage adjustment necessary; monitor for antihistaminic side effects in this patient population
Dosing Considerations
Limitations of use: Not recommended in pediatric patients <6 years impaired renal or hepatic function
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (8)
- erdafitinib
erdafitinib will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. If coadministration unavoidable, separate administration by at least 6 hr before or after administration of P-gp substrates with narrow therapeutic index.
- isocarboxazid
isocarboxazid increases effects of cetirizine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Isocarboxazid should not be administered in combination with antihistamines because of potential additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. .
- lasmiditan
lasmiditan increases levels of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- metoclopramide intranasal
cetirizine, metoclopramide intranasal. Either increases effects of the other by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Avoid use of metoclopramide intranasal or interacting drug, depending on importance of drug to patient.
- olopatadine intranasal
cetirizine and olopatadine intranasal both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.
- sotorasib
sotorasib will decrease the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. If use is unavoidable, refer to the prescribing information of the P-gp substrate for dosage modifications.
- tepotinib
tepotinib will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. If concomitant use unavoidable, reduce the P-gp substrate dosage if recommended in its approved product labeling.
- tranylcypromine
tranylcypromine increases effects of cetirizine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Tranylcypromine should not be administered in combination with antihistamines because of potential additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines.
Monitor Closely (46)
- acrivastine
acrivastine and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- amifampridine
cetirizine increases toxicity of amifampridine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Amifampridine can cause seizures. Coadministration with drugs that lower seizure threshold may increase this risk.
- amisulpride
amisulpride and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- asenapine
asenapine and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- asenapine transdermal
asenapine transdermal and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- avapritinib
avapritinib and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- azithromycin
azithromycin will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
- benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen
benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- berotralstat
berotralstat will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor or titrate P-gp substrate dose if coadministered.
- bosutinib
bosutinib increases levels of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brexpiprazole
brexpiprazole and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brimonidine
brimonidine and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- brivaracetam
brivaracetam and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine subdermal implant
buprenorphine subdermal implant and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine transdermal
buprenorphine transdermal and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- buprenorphine, long-acting injection
buprenorphine, long-acting injection and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- cenobamate
cenobamate, cetirizine. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- clobazam
cetirizine, clobazam. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Concomitant administration can increase the potential for CNS effects (e.g., increased sedation or respiratory depression).
- crizotinib
crizotinib increases levels of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
- daridorexant
cetirizine and daridorexant both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.
- diazepam intranasal
diazepam intranasal, cetirizine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration may potentiate the CNS-depressant effects of each drug.
- donepezil transdermal
donepezil transdermal, cetirizine. Either decreases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- elagolix
elagolix will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
- eliglustat
eliglustat increases levels of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Monitor therapeutic drug concentrations, as indicated, or consider reducing the dosage of the P-gp substrate and titrate to clinical effect.
- esketamine intranasal
esketamine intranasal, cetirizine. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- fentanyl
fentanyl and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl intranasal
fentanyl intranasal and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system
fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fentanyl transdermal
fentanyl transdermal and cetirizine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fostamatinib
fostamatinib will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of fostamatinib may increase concentrations of P-gp substrates. Monitor for toxicities of the P-gp substrate drug that may require dosage reduction when given concurrently with fostamatinib.
- gabapentin
gabapentin, cetirizine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.
- gabapentin enacarbil
gabapentin enacarbil, cetirizine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.
- glecaprevir/pibrentasvir
glecaprevir/pibrentasvir will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
- hyaluronidase
cetirizine decreases effects of hyaluronidase by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Antihistamines, when given in large systemic doses, may render tissues partially resistant to the action of hyaluronidase. Patients may require larger amounts of hyaluronidase for equivalent dispersing effect. .
- istradefylline
istradefylline will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Istradefylline 40 mg/day increased peak levels and AUC of P-gp substrates in clinical trials. Consider dose reduction of sensitive P-gp substrates.
- lomitapide
lomitapide increases levels of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Consider reducing dose when used concomitantly with lomitapide.
- lurasidone
lurasidone, cetirizine. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Potential for increased CNS depressant effects when used concurrently; monitor for increased adverse effects and toxicity.
- midazolam intranasal
midazolam intranasal, cetirizine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Concomitant use of barbiturates, alcohol, or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of hypoventilation, airway obstruction, desaturation, or apnea and may contribute to profound and/or prolonged drug effect.
- phenelzine
phenelzine increases effects of cetirizine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Coadministration of phenelzine and antihistamines may result in additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. .
- ponatinib
ponatinib increases levels of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
- pregabalin
pregabalin, cetirizine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.
- ritonavir
ritonavir increases levels of cetirizine by decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- sarecycline
sarecycline will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor for toxicities of P-gp substrates that may require dosage reduction when coadministered with P-gp inhibitors.
- stiripentol
stiripentol will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Consider reducing the dose of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrates, if adverse reactions are experienced when administered concomitantly with stiripentol.
stiripentol, cetirizine. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor. Concurrent use of medications with CNS depressant effects together with thalidomide should be avoided due to the risk for additive sedative effects. - tucatinib
tucatinib will increase the level or effect of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Consider reducing the dosage of P-gp substrates, where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious or life-threatening toxicities.
- vemurafenib
vemurafenib increases levels of cetirizine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (1)
- theophylline
theophylline increases levels of cetirizine by decreasing elimination. Minor/Significance Unknown.
Adverse Effects
>10%
Somnolence (2-14%)
Headache (11-14%)
1-10%
Fatigue (5.9%)
Dry mouth (5%)
Dizziness (2%)
Diarrhea (2-3%)
Malaise (4%)
Bronchospasm (2-3%)
Vomiting (2-3%)
Epistaxis (2-4%)
<1%
Stomach pain
Drowsiness
Angioedema
Fussiness
Hallucinations
Hypotension
Tremor
Tongue discoloration
Postmarketing Reports
Cardiac disorders: Severe hypotension
Gastrointestinal disorders: Cholestasis
Nervous system disorders: Extrapyramidal symptoms, myoclonus, orofacial dyskinesia, tic
Pregnancy, puerperium and perinatal conditions: Stillbirth
Renal and urinary disorders: Glomerulonephritis
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP); rebound pruritus-pruritus within a few days after discontinuation of cetirizine, usually after long-term use (eg, months to years)
Postmarketing reports of active metabolite (levocetirizine)
- Cardiac disorders: Palpitations, tachycardia
- Ear and labyrinth disorders: Vertigo
- Eye disorders: Blurred vision, visual disturbances
- Gastrointestinal disorders: Nausea, vomiting
- General disorders and administration site conditions: Edema
- Hepatobiliary disorders: Hepatitis
- Immune system disorders: Anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Increased appetite
- Musculoskeletal, connective tissues, and bone disorders: Arthralgia, myalgia
- Nervous system disorders: Dizziness, dysgeusia, febrile seizure, movement disorders (including dystonia and oculogyric crisis), paraesthesia, seizure (reported in subjects with and without a known seizure disorder), tremor
- Psychiatric disorders: Aggression and agitation, depression, hallucinations, insomnia, nightmare, suicidal ideation
- Renal and urinary disorders: Dysuria, urinary retention
- Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: Dyspnea
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Angioedema, fixed drug eruption, pruritus, rash and urticaria
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to cetirizine hydrochloride or any of its ingredients, levocetirizine, or hydroxyzine
Cautions
Avoid alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers, due to increased risk of drowsiness
May cause CNS depression; avoid activities requiring mental alertness until accustomed to medication
Use caution in hepatic and renal impairment
The elderly may be more sensitive to adverse effects
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women
Lactation
Cetirizine has been reported to be present in human breast milk
In mice and beagle dogs, studies indicated that cetirizine was excreted in milk
When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely it will be present in human milk
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Histamine H1-receptor antagonist; competes with histamine on effector cells in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract
Absorption
Peak plasma concentration: 311 ng/mL (PO)
Peak serum time: 1 hr (PO)
Duration: >24 hr (suppression of skin wheal and flare reactions) (PO)
Effects of food
- No effect on the extent of cetirizine exposure (AUC) but peak plasma time was delayed by 1.7 hr and peak plasma concentration was decreased by 23% in the presence of food when cetirizine hydrochloride was administered orally
Distribution
Protein bound: 93%
Vd: 0.56 L/kg
Metabolism
Metabolized to a limited extent by oxidative O-dealkylation to a metabolite with negligible antihistaminic activity
Enzyme or enzymes responsible for this metabolism have not been identified
Elimination
Half-life: 8.3hr
Clearance:~53 mL/min
Excretion: Urine (70% [50% unchanged]); feces (10%)
Administration
IV Administration
Administer as an IV push over 1-2 minutes
Oral Administration
May take with or without food
Storage
All formulations
Store at 20-25ºC (68-77ºF), excursions permitted to 15-30ºC (59-86ºF)
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 10 mg chewable tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 5 mg chewable tablet |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| cetirizine oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| Zyrtec oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| Zyrtec oral - | 10 mg capsule |  | |
| Zyrtec oral - | 10 mg chewable tablet |  | |
| Zyrtec oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| Children's All Day Allergy (cetirizine) oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Children's Zyrtec Allergy oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| Children's Zyrtec Allergy oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Children's Zyrtec Allergy oral - | 10 mg chewable tablet |  | |
| Children's Zyrtec Allergy oral - | 10 mg tablet |  | |
| Children's Zyrtec Allergy oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Children's Zyrtec Allergy oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg capsule |  | |
| Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| Children's Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Children's Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Children's Allergy Relief (cetirizine) oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Children's Cetirizine oral - | 5 mg chewable tablet |  | |
| Children's Cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| Children's Cetirizine oral - | 10 mg chewable tablet |  | |
| Children's Cetirizine oral - | 5 mg chewable tablet |  | |
| Children's Cetirizine oral - | 1 mg/mL solution |  | |
| All Day Allergy (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| All Day Allergy (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| All Day Allergy (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| All Day Allergy (cetirizine) oral - | 10 mg tablet | | |
| Zerviate ophthalmic (eye) - | 0.24 % liquid |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
cetirizine oral
CETIRIZINE - ORAL
(seh-TEER-ah-zeen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zyrtec
USES: Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.Cetirizine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a serious allergic reaction (such as anaphylaxis). If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always carry your epinephrine injector with you. Do not use cetirizine in place of your epinephrine.
HOW TO USE: If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed, usually once daily.If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the rapidly-dissolving tablet, allow the tablet to dissolve on the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.Tell your doctor if your allergy symptoms do not improve, if your hives do not improve after 3 days of treatment, or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. Get medical help right away if your condition worsens or if you think you have a serious medical problem (such as a very serious allergic reaction/anaphylaxis).
SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, tiredness, and dry mouth may occur. Stomach pain may also occur, especially in children. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: difficulty urinating, weakness.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking cetirizine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to hydroxyzine; or to levocetirizine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: difficulty urinating (such as due to an enlarged prostate), kidney disease, liver disease.If you are using this medication to treat hives, tell your doctor right away if you have any of these other symptoms because they may be signs of a more serious condition: hives that are an unusual color, hives that look bruised or blistered, hives that do not itch.This drug may make you drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).Liquid products may contain sugar. Caution is advised if you have diabetes. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine).Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.Do not use with any other antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray) because increased side effects may occur.Cetirizine is very similar to hydroxyzine and levocetirizine. Do not use these medications while using cetirizine.This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness. In children, mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, irritability) may occur before drowsiness.
NOTES: Keep all medical and lab appointments.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Different brands of this medication may have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised June 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
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Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
- Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.
