:: What is Zyrtec?
Zyrtec (cetirizine hydrochloride) is a FDA-approved oral antihistamine medication, in the class of piperizines, used for the treatment of indoor year-round and outdoor seasonal allergy symptoms.
Zyrtec is manufactured by Pfizer Labs based in New York City, New York, USA.
See our comprehensive Allergies FAQ  to learn more about year-round indoor and seasonal outdoor allergens, including a
comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used decongestants, antihistamines, and intranasal corticosteroids for allergy relief .
You can buy Zyrtec by going to our Zyrtec price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Zyrtec prices, no prior prescription required.
If this is your first time ordering Zyrtec online, see our beginner’s guide , where the process of obtaining a prescription online and ordering your medication is explained.
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:: Who should take Zyrtec?
Zyrtec should be used by adults and children over 2 years old for the relief of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, postnasal drip, and itchy, watery, red eyes caused by indoor and outdoor allergies.
Zyrtec is also used for the relief of chronic hives (urticaria).
Zyrtec should be used for infants as young as 6 months old for the relief of indoor allergy symptoms. See how do I take Zyrtec for dosage >>.
Indoor allergies or year-round allergies can be caused by dust, mold and pet dander. Outdoor allergies or seasonal allergies are caused pollen from trees, weeds, grasses and flowers. See our comprehensive Guide to Allergies to learn more about what allergies are, what causes them, how they are treated and how to reduce your exposure to allergens.
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:: Who should not take Zyrtec?
You should not take Zyrtec if you are allergic to Zyrtec, cetirizine hydrochloride, Vistaril, Atarax, or hydroxyzine.
Zyrtec should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Zyrtec is secreted in human milk. Women should notify their doctor if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant while taking Zyrtec.
Zyrtec should be used with caution in geriatric patients and patients with severe kidney or liver disease. If you have kidney or liver problems, tell your doctor before taking Zyrtec. Depending on your age and the severity of your condition, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.
Only your healthcare provider can tell you for sure if you should take Zyrtec or not. Inform your healthcare provider, during either a physical or online consultation, about all the medicines you are taking, prescription or over-the-counter, and about any medical conditions you have or have had, including allergies.
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:: Can I take Zyrtec if I have asthma?
In general, antihistamines such as Zyrtec are not recommended for use by people with asthma. However, clinical studies of allergy patients who had mild to moderate asthma showed no adverse effects on lung function while taking Zyrtec. If you have asthma, it is best to ask your doctor if the use of Zyrtec is appropriate for you.
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:: What are allergies?
This question requires its own frequently asked questions page.
See our extensive Allergy Guide for information including a
comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used decongestants, antihistamines (including Zyrtec), and intranasal corticosteroids for allergy-relief .
There, you will also find lists of steps you can take to help you avoid or decrease the risk of exposure to the common allergens or allergy triggers which are:
dust mites ,
mold ,
cockroach allergens ,
pet dander , and
pollen .
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:: How does Zyrtec work?
When you are exposed to a substance that your body has identified as an allergen (intruder) a chemical called histamine is released in your system. Histamine binds to cells causing allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat, and itchy, watery eyes.
Zyrtec blocks histamine from binding to cells by taking its place on the cells thereby stopping allergy symptoms from occurring.
See our extensive Allergies FAQ for more information on
the immune system response to allergens .
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:: How well does Zyrtec work?
For Seasonal and Perennial Allergies:
Nine clinical trials of over 2000 patients 12 years and older have shown that Zyrtec is an effective treatment for seasonal (outdoor) or perennial (indoor year-round) allergies. Five of the studies showed significant reductions in symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergies, 3 in seasonal allergies and 2 in perennial allergies for patients receiving Zyrtec compared to sugar pill.
For Chronic idiopathic urticaria (chronic hives):
Two 4-week clinical studies of have shown that Zyrtec is an effective treatment for chronic idiopathic urticaria. In these studies patients receiving Zyrtec had a significant reduction in symptoms of urticaria compared to sugar pill.
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:: How safe is Zyrtec?
Zyrtec (cetirizine hydrochloride) has been used as an antihistamine since 1995. Its safety and efficacy profile has been maintained by real-world experience as well as clinical trials of over 6000 patients in the United States and Canada.
Zyrtec has been approved by the FDA to successfully and safely treat seasonal and perennial allergies and chronic idiopathic urticaria (chronic hives). However, Zyrtec may not be for everyone. Be sure to read Who should not take Zyrtec? .
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:: What is the difference between Zyrtec and other antihistamines?
Zyrtec features once a day dosing, causes less drowsiness than diphenhydramine* (although Allegra causes even less drowsiness than Zyrtec), is approval for both indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms and for use in children as young as 6 months. Here is a comparison table:
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Zyrtec
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Allegra
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Diphenhydramine*
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Dosing schedule (adults)
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once daily
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60mg every 12 hours or 180mg once daily
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every 4 to 6 hours
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Causes drowsiness
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occasionally
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rarely
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very frequently
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Approved for treatment of indoor (year-round) allergy symptoms
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yes
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no
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yes
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Approved for treatment of outdoor (seasonal) allergy symptoms
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yes
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yes
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yes
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Approved for use in children
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6months or older
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6 years or older
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6 years or older
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* Diphenhydramine is an over the counter antihistamine used for allergies, insomnia and a cough suppressant. Diphenhydramine is found in many preparations such as Benadryl Allergy, Benadryl Children’s Allergy and Tylenol Allergy in addition to generic formulations.
For a comparison of antihistamines such as Zyrtec to other classes of allergy relief medications, see our comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used decongestants, antihistamines, and intranasal corticosteroids for allergy-relief
in our extensive Allergy FAQ .
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:: What does Zyrtec look like?
Zyrtec (cetirizine hydrochloride) manufactured by Pfizer Labs is available as 5mg and 10mg tablets:
Zyrtec 5mg tablets are rounded-rectangular, film-coated and white, with the imprint ZYRTEC on one side and 5 on the other side.
Zyrtec 10mg tablets are rounded-rectangular, film-coated and white, with the imprint ZYRTEC on one side and 10 on the other side.
Zyrtec is also available in purple 5mg and 10mg chewable tablets and 5mg/5mL banana-grape flavored syrup for kids.
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:: How do I take Zyrtec?
Zyrtec comes in 5 and 10 mg tablets. Zyrtec also comes in 5 and 10 mg chewable tablets as well as 5mg/5mL (5mg per teaspoon) syrup form. Zyrtec can be taken with or without food.
For treating Seasonal and Perennial Allergic Rhinitis and Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (chronic hives):
- Adults and Children 12 years or older:
Oral dosage form (Tablets, Chewable Tablets, or Syrup): The usual dose is 5mg or 10mg once daily depending on symptom severity.
- Children 6 to 11 years old:
Oral dosage form (Tablets, Chewable Tablets, or Syrup): The usual dose is 5mg or 10mg once daily depending on symptom severity.
- Children 2 to 5 years old:
Oral dosage form (Chewable Tablets, or Syrup): The usual dose is 2.5mg once daily. This dose may be increased to a maximum of 5mg one daily or 2.5mg every 12 hours.
- Children Children 6 months to 2 years old:
Oral dosage form (Syrup): The usual dose is 2.5mg once daily. The dose may be increased to a maximum of 5mg one daily or 2.5mg every 12 hours for children 12 to 23 months.
- Adults over age 60 and Patients with Kidney or Liver Disease:
Consult your physician. A reduced Zyrtec dose may be necessary.
* Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor will determine if Zyrtec is appropriate for you or adjust your dosage.
Your doctor may have a plan that varies from above, always follow your doctor’s recommendations. Do not take more medication than prescribed.
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:: What should I do if I miss a dose of Zyrtec?
If you miss a dose of Zyrtec, take it as soon as you remember it. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT double the dose to make up for a missed dose of Zyrtec. Do not take more medication than your doctor prescribed.
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:: How long does it take Zyrtec to work?
Zyrtec starts to relieve allergy symptoms in as soon as 60 minutes.
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:: Do I need to take Zyrtec regularly?
You can use Zyrtec regularly or only when needed:
During allergy season or when you know you will be constantly exposed to an allergen, take Zyrtec regularly. If you wait too long between doses, your symptoms will have a chance to worsen.
Otherwise take Zyrtec when you know you will be exposed to an allergen such as visiting a friend with a dog. Taking Zyrtec before symptoms start is most effective.
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:: How should I store Zyrtec?
Keep Zyrtec and all medications out of children's reach.
Store Zyrtec tablets and chewable tablets at room temperature in a tight container, away from moisture, heat and direct light. Syrup Zyrtec can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated. Do not keep medicine past the expiration date, dispose of properly.
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:: What are the possible side effects of Zyrtec?
The most common side effects are dry mouth, drowsiness and fatigue in adults and drowsiness, headache, sore throat and stomach pain in children.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur with Zyrtec. Talk to your doctor about any side effects that seem unusual or that are especially bothersome when taking Zyrtec.
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:: What are the possible drug interactions of Zyrtec?
Inform your doctor, during either a physical or online consultation, about all the medicines you use, prescription and non-prescription. Certain medicines should never be used together. Some medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may change the dose, monitor the effects or take other precautions.
When you are taking Zyrtec, it is especially important that you inform your doctor if you are taking Theophylline (high dose) as it may increase Zyrtec blood levels. No clinically significant drug interactions have been found with theophylline at a low dose, Zithromax (azithromycin), pseudoephedrine, Nizoral (ketoconazole) or erythromycin.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zyrtec.
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:: What other precautions should I take when using Zyrtec?
In addition to the above possible side effects of Zyrtec, please be aware of the following as they apply to you.
Driving and Hazardous Work: Zyrtec may make you drowsy. Use caution before driving a car or engaging in hazardous work until you know how Zyrtec affects you.
Consumption of Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the effects of any drowsiness you may experience with Zyrtec.
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding: Zyrtec should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Zyrtec is secreted in human milk. Women should notify their doctor if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant while taking Zyrtec.
Kidney and Liver Disease: The side effects may be more likely due to potential for higher blood levels of Zyrtec. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.
Do NOT share your Zyrtec prescription with others, this can be a very dangerous practice.
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:: Can I drink alcohol while I'm taking Zyrtec?
You should avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the effects of any drowsiness you may experience with Zyrtec.
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:: Can I become dependent on Zyrtec?
There is no evidence that abuse or dependency occurs with Zyrtec.
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:: What are the symptoms of a possible overdose of Zyrtec?
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, restlessness and irritability. If overdose is suspected, call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS) 911, or the poison control center immediately.
National Poison Control Center telephone number: 800-222-1222
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:: Is Zyrtec available over the counter?
No. Zyrtec is currently available by prescription only.
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:: How can I get an Zyrtec prescription online?
Go to our Zyrtec price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Zyrtec prices, no prior prescription required.
Our featured US-based online pharmacies work with US-licensed doctors and pharmacists to provide you with your prescriptions through an online consultation.
If this is your first time ordering Zyrtec online, see our beginner’s guide , where the process of obtaining a prescription online and ordering your medication is explained.
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:: How much does Zyrtec cost?
Some companies charge less per pill but charge you separately for their consultation and pharmacy dispensing fees. Others include these fees into their final pricing.
RxPriceCheck's featured pharmacies give you a free online medical consultation with your order. Be sure to compare Zyrtec prices before buying.
Usually, the more pills you buy, the cheaper the price per pill.
See our Zyrtec price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Zyrtec prices no prior prescription needed.
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:: What is generic Zyrtec and is it available?
The generic name for Zyrtec is cetirizine hydrochloride. Only Zyrtec brand is currently available in the US.
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:: Is it safe to order Zyrtec or other medications from non-US
pharmacies?
Purchasing Zyrtec from non-US pharmacies can be potentially dangerous. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not recommend ordering medications online from pharmacies located outside the US, because it cannot guarantee the origin, quality or safety of the medication, or regulate the manufacturers. Therefore, it may be filled with other ingredients that may harm you, or it may be fake, sold as Zyrtec, but not contain the active ingredient cetirizine hydrochloride.
RxPriceCheck.com only affiliates with online pharmacies that work with US licensed physicians and pharmacists, and sell FDA-approved Zyrtec manufactured by Pfizer Labs. You can therefore choose from our list of online pharmacies with confidence.
See our Zyrtec price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Zyrtec prices no prior prescription needed.
If this is your first time ordering Zyrtec online, see our beginner’s guide , where the process of obtaining a prescription online and ordering your medication is explained.
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* The information contained in RxPriceCheck.com is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider regarding your medical condition. All product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. View our terms of use .
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