Zyrtec 10mg Tablets

Cetirizine is an antihistamine. It blocks histamine, a chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction.

It helps with hay fever, conjunctivitis (red, itchy eyes), eczema, hives, reactions to insect bites and some food allergies. Most people start to feel better within an hour.

Take cetirizine as your doctor or pharmacist tells you or as the pack says.

• You can take it with or without food. Swallow tablets whole with a drink.
• For the liquid, use the syringe or spoon that comes with it, not a kitchen spoon.
• Some people take it only when needed; others take it every day during allergy season.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is nearly due. Never take two doses together.
• If you have taken it every day for a long time, talk to your doctor before stopping.

Common side effects include:

• Feeling sleepy or tired
• Headache, dizziness or dry mouth
• Feeling sick or diarrhoea
• Sore throat, sneezing or a runny nose (more common in children)

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• Swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing or swallowing
• A swollen, itchy, blistered or peeling rash
• Bruising more easily, or bleeding that takes longer to stop

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• Have had an allergic reaction to cetirizine or any other medicine
• Have kidney problems (you may need a lower dose)
• Have epilepsy or a condition that can cause fits
• Have trouble passing urine
• Are due to have an allergy skin test, as it can affect the results
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Do not take two antihistamines together unless a doctor advises it.

Store as the pack directs and keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Cetirizine is called non-drowsy, but it can still make some people sleepy. If it does, do not drive, cycle or use machinery. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking it. It is generally considered suitable in pregnancy and breastfeeding, but check with your doctor or pharmacist first.