Active Ingredient:
CetirizineDosage and Directions:
Adults and children ages 6 to 64:
- One (10mg) tablet every 24 hours
- One to two 5mg chewable tablets every 24 hours depending on severity of symptoms
Children ages 2 to 6 years old and adults over age 65:
- One half (2.5mg) to one (5mg) teaspoon every 24 hours depending on severity of symptoms
Children under 2 years old:
- Ask a doctor
Purpose:
Zyrtec is used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies, hay fever and hives which include:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes, nose or throat
- Itchy rash (hives)
Side Effects of Zyrtec:
Possible side effects of Zyrtec include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry Mouth
- Irritability
- Loss of sleep
- Sore throat
- Stomach pain
- Swelling
If any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away, contact your healthcare provider.
Certain side effects can be very serious. If you have any of the following after taking Zyrtec or cetirizine, seek medical advice immediately.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as hives, itching, skin rash, swelling of face, lips or tongue
- Changes in vision or hearing
- Fast heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Infection
- Trouble urinating or change in amount of urine
Warnings:
If you have hives and experience difficulty breathing, significant swelling of the tongue or lips, wheezing, difficulty speaking or swallowing, dizziness, drooling, vomiting or loss of consciousness - seek emergency medical attention immediately. These are signs of a potentially life threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.
Ask a Doctor Before Using Zyrtec If:
- You are allergic to Zyrtec, cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any other medications.
- You have liver disease.
- You have kidney disease.
- You are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

