Cetirizine 10mg

About Cetirizine

Description

Cetirizine 10mg tablets contain the active ingredient cetirizine hydrochloride. It is an antiallergic medication used for the relief of symptoms of hay fever and allergies such as dust or pet allergies, such as sneezing, itchy, runny and blocked nose, itchy, red and watery eyes. It can also be used for the relief of swelling, redness and itchiness of the skin.

Suitability

Do not take Cetirizine if you are known to be allergic (hypersensitive) to the active substance cetirizine hydrochloride or any of the other ingredients of these tablets listed in the patient information leaflet.

Important Interactions

Generally no interactions with other drugs are expected, but it is always important to tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken or might take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription.

Side Effects

• fatigue
• sleepiness
• dizziness
• headache
• dry mouth
• nausea (feeling sick)

Please Note

All medication can cause side effects. We have only listed a few to be aware of. Details of all side effects, including rare side effects to be aware of, are listed in the patient information leaflet (PIL). When completing your medical questionnaire, it is very important that you answer the questions truthfully. This is to ensure your doctor has a full picture of your medical history before prescribing. List all medicines you are already taking, including non-prescription and herbal medicines.

Looking after your medicine

Do not take medicines after the expiry date stamped on the pack. Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

Medicines are only intended to be used by the person they are prescribed for. Do not give your prescribed medicine to anybody else, even if they have the same symptoms as you. Medicines can be harmful if used by anybody other than the person they have been prescribed for.

References

Cetirizine 10mg Patient Information Leaflet

British National Formulary: cetirizine hydrochloride

Can I buy Cetirizine over the counter?

Yes, you can buy Cetirizine over the counter and without a prescription. It is contained in our travel pack as it is a useful medicine to have on standby when travelling.

Can I take Cetirizine every day?

The usual daily dose of Cetirizine is 5-10mg once daily. You should not take more than the recommended dose.

Can you take two different antihistamines at the same time?

There are different antihistamines available to buy and some work better than others for people. These include Claritin (active ingredient loratadine), Zyrtec (active ingredient cetirizine) and Piriton (chlorphenamine). If you feel that your antihistamine is not working for you, you must talk to your doctor. Do not take different antihistamines at the same time.

Should I take Cetirizine morning or night?

You can take Cetirizine any time of the day as it is usually non-sedating. You should take it the same time each day. If you do experience sedative effects from Cetirizine, then you may prefer to take it in the evening.

How long does it take for Cetirizine to work?

Cetirizine usually starts to work between 20 minutes and 1 hour. Its effects can last for at least 24 hours and will wear off once you stop taking Cetirizine.

Will hay fever tablets make me drowsy?

Some antihistamines used for hay fever and other allergic conditions are known to make you feel drowsy. Tablets containing cetirizine or loratadine are generally less likely to make you drowsy. Always check the active ingredient listed on your antihistamines and read the patient information leaflet to understand possible side effects.