Cetirizine
Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that causes less drowsiness than older antihistamines. It blocks histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Dosage by Body Weight
Pediatric dosing for cetirizine is often age and weight-stratified. For children under 2 years, use is typically restricted unless directed by a specialist. Always use the provided dropper or syringe for liquid forms.
- Body Weight
- Under 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Consult physician
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy not established for very low weight infants in many regions.
- Body Weight
- 5-9 kg
- Dose
- 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Usually for infants 6 months+; check local labeling.
- Body Weight
- 10-14 kg
- Dose
- 2.5 mg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed 5 mg total in 24 hours for this weight range.
- Body Weight
- 15-25 kg
- Dose
- 5 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- May be split into 2.5 mg twice daily if preferred.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 5 kg | Not recommended | Consult physician | Safety and efficacy not established for very low weight infants in many regions. |
| 5-9 kg | 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg | Once daily | Usually for infants 6 months+; check local labeling. |
| 10-14 kg | 2.5 mg | Once or twice daily | Do not exceed 5 mg total in 24 hours for this weight range. |
| 15-25 kg | 5 mg | Once daily | May be split into 2.5 mg twice daily if preferred. |
Formulation
Purpose
Antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.
Generic Name
Cetirizine Hydrochloride
Branded Drug Names
Cetirizine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
- Zyrtec
- Cetzine
- Okacet
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.