Cetirizine

Description

Cetirizine is an anti-allergic medicine that helps relieve symptoms such as a r

unny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and hives caused by allergies, hay fever, or the common cold. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a natural substance in the body responsible for allergic reactions. Cetirizine typically begins to take effect within one hour and offers long-lasting relief. It can be taken with or without food, but it’s best to take it at the same time each day. Avoid alcohol while taking cetirizine, as it may increase drowsiness. Always use this medicine as advised by your doctor.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

This medicine is used for the relief of symptoms of hay fever and allergies such as dust or pet allergies, sneezing, itchy, runny and blocked nose, red and watery eyes. It is also used to treat swelli...

Contraindications

When should one not use Cetirizine

Allergic to Cetirizine or having severe kidney disease.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Dizziness
Drowsiness
Allergic reactions like rash, swelling loss of consciousness and loss of weight
Tremors or fits
Tiredness
Dry mouth, diarrhea
Sore throat
Abdominal pain

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Cetirizine during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or you think you might be pregnant or are planning pregnancy, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Cetirizine while breastfeeding?

It is not advisable during breastfeeding. The patient should consult with the doctor first.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Cetirizine?

It does not affect your driving ability, but you may feel drowsy. Hence better to avoid if you feel drowsiness.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Cetirizine?

This medicine may cause calmness and excessive drowsiness with alcohol.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have fits or kidney problem
You are suffering from spinal cord lesion

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

This medicine is an Antihistamine and it works by blocking a particular natural substance (Histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Paracetamol
Atropine
Phenobarbital
Most sedatives
Other antibiotics of Cephalosporins class
Codeine
Diphenhydramine
Phenylephrine
Guaifenesin
Carbidopa/ Levodopa
Chlorcyclizine, etc.E11

Interactions with food items

No information is available on interactions of Cetirizine when taken with food, so consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dietary Restrictions

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Cetirizine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.

Dosage

Overdose

The most common signs and symptoms of overdose may include feeling unwell, confused, restless, shaky, dizzy, tired or very sleepy. You may also notice a rapid heartbeat, dilated pupils or blurred visi...

Missed a Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you remember and then wait 24 hours before taking your next dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up with the skipped dose.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my physician before taking Cetirizine?

A: You should not use this medication if you are allergic to it. Ask your doctor if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have any specific medical condition. Also, mention all the prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal preparations, and nutritional supplements that you may be taking to your doctor before starting this medication.

Q: What is Cetirizine used for?

A: Cetirizine is an anti-allergy medication (antihistamine) that helps alleviate symptoms caused by allergic reactions. It is commonly used for hay fever, dust or pet allergies, skin allergies, hives (red, itchy patches), and reactions that cause sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the throat or skin.

Q: What are the common side effects of Cetirizine?

A: Most people tolerate Cetirizine well. Some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, dizziness, or mild stomach upset. These effects are usually temporary and often improve as your body adjusts. Serious side effects are rare, but if you notice difficulty breathing, a severe rash, or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical help immediately.

Q: Can I take Cetirizine with other medicines?

A: Cetirizine may interact with alcohol, sleeping pills, sedatives, and some anxiety or allergy medicines that also cause drowsiness, leading to increased sleepiness or reduced alertness. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines, herbal products, or supplements you are taking so they can check for safe combinations.

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Last Updated on: 23 Sep 2025 | 11:40 PM (IST)

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Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.