How and when to take cetirizine

Cetirizine comes as tablets (10mg) and as a liquid medicine (labelled either 5mg/5ml or 1mg/1ml).

The usual dose for adults and children aged 12 years old and over is 10mg once a day.

Doses are usually lower for people with kidney problems.

Dose for children under 12

For children aged 6 to 11 years old, the usual dose is 5mg, twice a day. Try to leave 10 to 12 hours between doses. For example, your child could take it first thing in the morning, and before bedtime.

For children aged 2 to 5 years old, the dose is 2.5mg, twice a day.

For children aged 1 year old, their doctor will use their weight or age to work out the right dose.

How to take it

You can take cetirizine with or without food, but always take the tablets with a drink of water, milk or squash.

Swallow them whole. Do not chew them.

Cetirizine liquid may be easier for children to take than tablets. The liquid medicine will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to give the right dose. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.