Cetirizine dihydrochloride 10mg Tablets - 30

Cetirizine 10mg is a once-daily, low-drowsy antihistamine tablet containing cetirizine dihydrochloride (西替利嗪) 10mg, used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies in adults and children aged 6 and over, supplied by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults and children aged 6 and over with hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) during pollen season
• People with year-round allergic rhinitis triggered by house dust mites, pet dander or mould
• People with itchy skin rashes such as hives (urticaria)
• People who want a once-a-day tablet that is unlikely to cause drowsiness for most users

Not suitable for: children under 6 at this 10mg strength; anyone allergic to cetirizine, hydroxyzine or any other ingredient. Contains lactose. Speak to your pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have kidney problems, epilepsy, or difficulty passing urine.

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before you start.
2. Adults and children aged 6 and over: take one 10mg tablet once a day.
3. Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food.
4. Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours.
5. If your symptoms do not improve, or continue for more than a few weeks, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Is cetirizine non-drowsy?

Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that is far less sedating than older types and is usually described as non-drowsy. A small number of people still feel sleepy on it, so check how it affects you before driving or using machinery.

How quickly does cetirizine work?

Cetirizine usually starts to relieve allergy symptoms within about an hour of taking a tablet. A single dose is intended to last for 24 hours, so it is taken once a day.

What does cetirizine treat?

Cetirizine relieves the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies, including sneezing, a runny or itchy nose, itchy watery eyes, and itchy skin rashes such as hives.

Can children take cetirizine?

These 10mg tablets are for adults and children aged 6 and over. For younger children, ask your pharmacist about a suitable cetirizine liquid or an alternative.

Can I take cetirizine in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or doctor before taking cetirizine so they can advise whether it is suitable for you.

Safety and storage

• Always read the patient information leaflet before use, as manufacturers update it regularly.
• Do not take cetirizine if you are allergic to it, to hydroxyzine, or to any other ingredient.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
• Speak to your pharmacist before use if you have kidney problems, epilepsy or difficulty passing urine, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Store below 25°C in the original packaging, keep out of the sight and reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date.

References

• NHS — Hay fever
• NHS — Cetirizine
• Cetirizine Patient Information Leaflet via emc

This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter allergy medicine. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure whether cetirizine is right for you, or your symptoms persist, speak to a pharmacist. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.