Zyrtec
Zyrtec is a second-generation, selective H1-receptor antagonist. It is a non-drowsy antihistamine compared to first-generation alternatives, used to treat cold or allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or runny nose. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Dosage by Body Weight
Adults and children 6 years and older: 5 mg to 10 mg once daily depending on symptom severity. Do not exceed 10 mg in 24 hours. Children 2 to 5 years: 2.5 mg once daily, up to a maximum of 5 mg daily (either 5 mg once daily or 2.5 mg twice daily). Children 6 months to 2 years: 2.5 mg once daily. For infants under 6 months, consult a physician.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in infants under 6 months of age (typically below 5 kg) have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / 2.5 mg (if age is over 6 months)
- Frequency
- Once daily if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Typically corresponds to infants. Consult a pediatrician before administration.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 2.5 mg (2.5 mL of 1 mg/mL oral solution)
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Typical weight range for ages 6 to 12 months. Do not exceed 2.5 mg in 24 hours.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 2.5 mg to 5 mg (2.5 mL to 5 mL of oral solution)
- Frequency
- Once daily (or split into 1.25 mg twice daily)
- Tracking Notes
- Typical weight range for toddlers/preschoolers aged 1 to 3 years. Maximum dose is 5 mg per day.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 2.5 mg to 5 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Typical weight range for children aged 4 to 5 years. Can be given as oral solution or chewable tablets.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | Use only if prescribed | Safety and effectiveness in infants under 6 months of age (typically below 5 kg) have not been established. |
| 5-7 kg | Not routine / 2.5 mg (if age is over 6 months) | Once daily if prescribed | Typically corresponds to infants. Consult a pediatrician before administration. |
| 8-10 kg | 2.5 mg (2.5 mL of 1 mg/mL oral solution) | Once daily | Typical weight range for ages 6 to 12 months. Do not exceed 2.5 mg in 24 hours. |
| 11-15 kg | 2.5 mg to 5 mg (2.5 mL to 5 mL of oral solution) | Once daily (or split into 1.25 mg twice daily) | Typical weight range for toddlers/preschoolers aged 1 to 3 years. Maximum dose is 5 mg per day. |
| 16-20 kg | 2.5 mg to 5 mg | Once daily | Typical weight range for children aged 4 to 5 years. Can be given as oral solution or chewable tablets. |
Formulation
Purpose
Relief of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat, as well as the treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of physical urticaria (hives).
Generic Name
Cetirizine HydrochlorideScheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.