Cetirizine 10mg Tablet
Reviewed educational reference: what this medicine is used for, how it works, its side effects and safety advice — plus the published Indian brands that contain it.
- Molecule
- Cetirizine
- Strength
- 10mg
- Dosage form
- tablet
- Drug class
- Antihistamine (H1)
Cetirizine 10mg Tablet contains Cetirizine, a second-generation antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itchy skin rashes (urticaria/hives). It causes less drowsiness than older antihistamines.
Uses of Cetirizine
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever): sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Urticaria (hives) and itchy skin rashes
- Allergic reactions to dust, pollen, pet dander or insect bites
Benefits of Cetirizine
All-day allergy control: a single daily dose of Cetirizine 10mg Tablet blocks the action of histamine, the substance released during an allergic reaction, easing sneezing, itching, watery eyes and skin rashes for around 24 hours.
Side effects of Cetirizine
Common side effects include sleepiness, tiredness, dry mouth and headache. These usually lessen as your body adjusts.
- Contact a doctor if you notice palpitations, difficulty passing urine, or any sign of an allergic reaction to the medicine itself.
How to use Cetirizine
- Take one tablet once daily, at the same time each day — many people prefer the evening because of possible drowsiness.
- It can be taken with or without food.
- Swallow the tablet with water.
How Cetirizine works
Cetirizine 10mg Tablet selectively blocks peripheral histamine H1 receptors. Histamine is the chemical your body releases during an allergic response; blocking its receptor prevents sneezing, itching, watery discharge and hives from developing.
What if you miss or exceed a dose?
If you miss a dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up.
In case of overdose
Taking too much may cause marked drowsiness, restlessness or a fast heartbeat. Seek medical advice if an overdose is suspected, especially in children.
Safety advice
Avoid alcohol; it markedly increases drowsiness with antihistamines.
Use in pregnancy only after consulting a doctor.
Small amounts pass into breast milk; use only if advised by a doctor.
May cause drowsiness in some people; do not drive until you know how it affects you.
Dose reduction is usually needed in moderate to severe kidney disease.
Use with caution in liver disease; a lower dose may be advised.
Quick tips
- Avoid alcohol — it adds to the drowsiness.
- If it makes you sleepy, take it at bedtime and avoid driving.
- Do not stop suddenly after long regular use for chronic hives; itching can temporarily return — taper as advised.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease; the dose may need to be reduced.
Interactions with other medicines
- Alcohol and sedatives (sleeping tablets, some cough syrups): increased drowsiness and reduced alertness.
- Theophylline: may slightly reduce Cetirizine 10mg Tablet clearance.
- Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including other allergy or cold remedies that may already contain an antihistamine.
Fact box
- Chemical class
- Piperazine derivative
- Habit forming
- No
- Therapeutic class
- Antiallergic (second-generation antihistamine)
- Action class
- Histamine H1 receptor antagonist
- Storage
- Store below 30°C in the original pack. Keep out of reach of children.
Frequently asked questions about Cetirizine
Does Cetirizine 10mg Tablet make you sleepy?
It causes much less drowsiness than older antihistamines, but some people still feel sleepy. Taking it in the evening helps.
How fast does Cetirizine 10mg Tablet work?
Relief usually begins within about an hour of a dose and lasts around 24 hours.
Can I take Cetirizine 10mg Tablet every day long term?
It is commonly taken daily during an allergy season or for chronic hives, but long-term daily use should be guided by a doctor.
Published products containing Cetirizine
Review and source
- Last reviewed
- 2026-07-28
- Reference
- Open reference ↗
Content is educational and should be checked against the current medicine label and professional guidance.
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