Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
| Cetirizine (Generic) Cetirizine Hydrochloride | ||||||
|
Shipped from Canada | ||||||
| | ||||||
| Select product strength & quantity:
Who is the product for? YouOtherAdd Family Member/PetYou must be logged in to add additional members to the order. Don't have an account? or Add Family Member/PetSign inTo continue, please enter your email address and password that you use for your account. | ||||||
| Select product strength & quantity:
Who is the product for? YouOtherAdd Family Member/PetYou must be logged in to add additional members to the order. Don't have an account? or Add Family Member/PetSign inTo continue, please enter your email address and password that you use for your account. | ||||||
| Cetirizine (Generic) Cetirizine Hydrochloride | ||||||
Shipped from United Kingdom | ||||||
| | ||||||
| Select product strength & quantity:
Who is the product for? YouOtherAdd Family Member/PetYou must be logged in to add additional members to the order. Don't have an account? or Add Family Member/PetSign inTo continue, please enter your email address and password that you use for your account. | ||||||
General Medication Fact Sheet for Zyrtec
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Zyrtec |
| Generic Name | cetirizine hydrochloride |
| Purpose | To temporarily relieve symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) or other upper respiratory allergies, such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. It is also used to relieve itching due to hives (urticaria). |
| Mechanism of Action | Zyrtec is a second-generation antihistamine. It works by selectively blocking the histamine H1 receptors on cells, which prevents histamine (a chemical released during an allergic reaction) from causing allergy symptoms. |
| Available Strengths | 5 mg, 10 mg (Tablets); 1 mg/mL (Oral Solution) |
| Dosage Frequency | Tablets, Orally Disintegrating Tablets, Liquid Gels, Oral Solution (Syrup) |
| Common Side Effects | Drowsiness, tiredness, dizziness, dry mouth, sore throat. |
| Serious Side Effects | Serious side effects are rare. A severe allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) or a very fast or pounding heartbeat require immediate medical attention. |
| Drug Interactions | Use with alcohol, sedatives, or other central nervous system depressants can increase the effect of drowsiness. |
| Important Notes | Zyrtec is available over-the-counter. While it is less likely to cause drowsiness than older antihistamines, it can still cause sleepiness in some individuals. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and high heat. |
| Missed Dose | If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. |
| Alternatives | Fexofenadine (Allegra), Loratadine (Claritin), Levocetirizine (Xyzal), Diphenhydramine (Benadryl). |
Zyrtec Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allegra (fexofenadine | Second-Generation Antihistamine | A non-drowsy oral antihistamine. Its absorption can be affected by fruit juices. |
| Claritin (loratadine) | Second-Generation Antihistamine | A non-drowsy oral antihistamine, generally considered one of the least sedating options. |
| Xyzal (levocetirizine | Second-Generation Antihistamine | An oral antihistamine related to cetirizine. It may be more effective for some but has a higher likelihood of causing drowsiness. |
| Benadryl (diphenhydramine) | First-Generation Antihistamine | An older antihistamine that is very effective but causes significant drowsiness. |
Zyrtec Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Drowsiness or sleepiness | Signs of a severe allergic reaction (hives, severe rash, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing) |
| Tiredness or weakness | Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat |
| Dizziness | Severe dizziness or feeling like you might pass out |
Zyrtec Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergic Rhinitis / Chronic Urticaria (Hives) | 5 mg or 10 mg once daily. | Continue once daily as needed for symptom control. | Can be taken with or without food. The 5 mg dose may be appropriate for less severe symptoms or if drowsiness is a concern. Do not take more than 10 mg in 24 hours. |
