Cetirizine

A non-sedating antihistamine. 10 mg once daily in adults; lower doses by age in children.

Non-sedating antihistamineReviewed October 2026
On this page

Uses

  • Urticaria, allergic rhinitis, itch, insect bite reactions.

Dose

AgeDose
Adults and children 12 years and over10 mg once daily
6–11 years5 mg twice daily
2–5 years2.5 mg twice daily
1–2 years250 micrograms/kg twice daily

Kidney and liver

Halve the dose if creatinine clearance below 30.

Side effects and cautions

  • Mild drowsiness in some people.

Frequently asked questions

Can cetirizine be taken every day?

Yes, it can be taken daily for chronic urticaria or allergies.

Used in these guides

Sources

  1. Drugs.com: Cetirizine dosage

Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.