How to Take Zyrtec: Side Effects, Dosage
How to take Zyrtec (cetirizine): dosage guidelines, common side effects, and precautions per OTC labeling for allergy relief.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Zyrtec
How to Take Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
Per OTC labeling, Zyrtec (cetirizine) may be taken with or without food, once daily. Take it at the same time each day for consistent symptom control. Swallow tablets whole; measure liquid formulations with a dosing syringe or cup.
Adult & Teen Dosing (12 years and older)
- Standard dose: Per OTC labeling, 10 mg once daily.
- Per OTC labeling, a 5 mg once daily dose may be appropriate for individuals with mild symptoms or those sensitive to the standard dose.
Children's Dosing
• Ages 6 to 11 years
- Usual dose: Per OTC labeling, 5 mg once daily.
- Per OTC labeling, 10 mg once daily may be used for this age group if directed.
• Ages 2 to 5 years
- Per OTC labeling, 2.5 mg once daily.
- Per OTC labeling, may increase to 5 mg once daily if needed.
• Ages 6 months to 23 months
- Per OTC labeling, 6–11 months: 2.5 mg once daily.
- Per OTC labeling, 12–23 months: 2.5 mg once daily; may be increased to 2.5 mg twice daily (total 5 mg/day) under clinician guidance.
Helpful Tips
- Per OTC labeling, taking Zyrtec at the same time each day provides more consistent control of allergy symptoms.
- Shake liquid formulations gently before each use.
- Per OTC labeling, do not exceed the total daily dose for your age group.
Warnings Before Taking Zyrtec
- Per OTC labeling: Do not use if you have had an allergic reaction to cetirizine or to hydroxyzine.
- Per OTC labeling: Ask a doctor before use if you have kidney or liver disease, as dose adjustment or medical guidance may be needed.
- Per OTC labeling: Avoid concurrent use of alcohol or other sedating medications, as drowsiness may be increased.
- Per OTC labeling: Ask a doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Per OTC labeling: Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how cetirizine affects you, as drowsiness may occur.
Zyrtec Side Effects
Common
Mild
Drowsiness
Per OTC labeling, drowsiness is a recognized adverse effect of cetirizine. Per OTC labeling, avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Normally lasts for:
6–8 hours
Common
Mild
Dry Mouth
Per OTC labeling, dry mouth is a recognized adverse effect of cetirizine, related to its mild anticholinergic activity. Adequate hydration may help.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Common
Mild
Fatigue
Per OTC labeling, fatigue is a recognized adverse effect associated with cetirizine use.
Normally lasts for:
4–6 hours
Common
Mild
Headache
Per OTC labeling, headache is a recognized adverse effect associated with cetirizine use.
Normally lasts for:
1–2 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Stomach Discomfort
Per OTC labeling, nausea or stomach upset may occur with cetirizine. Taking Zyrtec with food may reduce gastrointestinal effects.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Dry or Itchy Eyes
Per OTC labeling, dry or irritated eyes may occur as an adverse effect of cetirizine. Lubricating eye drops may provide relief.
Normally lasts for:
1–2 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Zyrtec
What If You Forgot to Take Zyrtec?
Per OTC labeling, Zyrtec is taken once daily. If a dose is missed, take it when remembered, as long as it is not close to the time for the next dose. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule.
- Do not double up doses; per OTC labeling, taking extra does not improve allergy control and may increase drowsiness.
- If Zyrtec is used only as needed, take the next dose when symptoms return.
What If You Took Too Much Zyrtec
What If You Took Too Much Zyrtec?
Contact Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222 (U.S.) if you suspect an overdose, especially if a child is involved or if symptoms are present. Call 911 if the person is unresponsive or experiencing a medical emergency.
- Symptoms of cetirizine overdose may include: excessive drowsiness and restlessness.
- Do not take additional doses of cetirizine or other antihistamines until evaluated by a medical professional.
- Bring the medication container or know the exact dose taken when contacting Poison Control or seeking care.
How Much Does Zyrtec Cost
Zyrtec Cost With Insurance
Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an over-the-counter medication. Most insurance plans do not cover OTC products. Actual costs depend on your specific plan's OTC benefits, if any. FSA/HSA funds may be applicable for eligible OTC purchases. Contact your insurance plan or pharmacy directly for current pricing and coverage information.
Pricing information is subject to change. This is not a guarantee of coverage or cost.
How Much Does Zyrtec Cost without Insurance
Cost of Zyrtec Without Insurance
The price of Zyrtec and generic cetirizine varies by retailer, dosage, and package size. Generic cetirizine products are widely available. Contact your local pharmacy or retailer directly for current pricing. FSA/HSA funds may be used for eligible OTC medications.
Pricing information is subject to change and may vary by location and retailer.
Resources:
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697038.html
https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=2ec20ce6-2c9d-4ce2-9e50-1ed8aaef562c
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/zyrtec-cetirizine-hcl-information
https://www.zyrtec.com/products/zyrtec-tablets
