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 HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Cetirizine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONAlcohol may increase sleepiness or dizziness with cetirizine. Avoid or limit alcohol and consult your healthcare provider if needed.
Pregnancy
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDCetirizine is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy when clearly needed. Use only after advice from your healthcare provider.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDCetirizine can pass into breast milk in small amounts and may rarely cause infant drowsiness. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Driving
CAUTIONCetirizine is usually less sedating than older antihistamines, but it may still cause drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONPeople with significant liver disease should use cetirizine only after medical advice, especially when other conditions are present.
Kidney
CAUTIONCetirizine is cleared through the kidneys and may need dose adjustment in kidney impairment. Consult your healthcare provider.