Product introduction
Zyrtec Syrup is a liquid antihistamine formulation built around cetirizine, most often given to children who find tablets hard to swallow. Each 5ml spoonful carries 5mg of cetirizine, allowing a doctor to fine-tune the dose to a child's age and weight. It is generally prescribed for seasonal or year-round allergy symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, and itchy skin. Because a doctor sets the exact dosing schedule, this syrup is sold only against a prescription.
Storage: Store below 25°C, in a dry place away from direct heat and light
Uses of Zyrtec Syrup
- Allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes)
- Urticaria (hives) and itchy skin reactions
- Allergic conjunctivitis (red, itchy eyes)
- Reactions to insect bites
- Allergy symptoms linked to the common cold
Benefits of Zyrtec Syrup
By calming the body's histamine-driven allergic response, the syrup can ease sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and watery eyes within a short time of taking it. Its liquid form makes accurate low-dose administration in young children more practical than splitting tablets.
Side effects of Zyrtec Syrup
Most side effects do not require medical attention and go away as your body adjusts. Consult your doctor if they persist.
- Drowsiness or sleepiness
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
How to use Zyrtec Syrup
Shake the bottle well before every use and measure the dose using the cup or dropper provided rather than an ordinary kitchen spoon. Give the syrup to the child by mouth, with or without food, strictly according to the dose and frequency the doctor has prescribed. Do not adjust the dose or duration on your own, especially in younger children.
How Zyrtec Syrup works
Cetirizine, the active ingredient in this syrup, blocks histamine, a chemical the body releases during an allergic reaction. By preventing histamine from binding to its receptors, it reduces the sneezing, itching, swelling, and watery discharge that typically accompany an allergic response.
Substitutes for Zyrtec Syrup
These medicines have the same composition (Cetirizine (5mg per 5ml)) and can generally be used as alternatives. Always confirm with your doctor or our pharmacist before switching.
Safety advice
Alcohol can add to the drowsiness this syrup may cause, so it should be avoided, particularly by older children or caregivers giving the medicine.
This is a pediatric formulation; if use during pregnancy is being considered for any reason, a doctor's assessment is needed first.
Cetirizine can pass into breast milk in small amounts, so a breastfeeding mother should use it only under medical guidance.
The syrup can cause sleepiness in some children and adults, so activities needing alertness should be avoided until its effect is known.
Cetirizine is cleared through the kidneys, so this syrup is best avoided in children or adults with kidney disease unless a doctor decides otherwise.
It can generally be used in liver disease, though a doctor may lower the dose in more severe cases.
Quick tips
- Always shake the bottle before measuring a dose
- Use only the marked measuring cup or dropper supplied with the pack
- Do not give to children under 4 years unless specifically advised by a doctor
- Complete the course length your doctor recommends rather than stopping once symptoms ease
- Keep the bottle stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat
Fact box
| Chemical class | Diphenylmethanes |
|---|---|
| Habit forming | No |
| Therapeutic class | Respiratory |
| Action class | Second-Generation H1 Antihistamines |
Frequently asked questions
How soon does Zyrtec Syrup start working?
Most children and adults notice relief from sneezing, itching, and a runny nose within about an hour of taking a dose.
Will this syrup make my child sleepy?
It can cause mild drowsiness in some children, though it is not meant to be used as a sleep aid; any unusual sleepiness should be discussed with the doctor.
Can Zyrtec Syrup be used for a long time?
It can be used over an extended period for ongoing allergies, but only under a doctor's supervision and periodic review.
Do I need to stop the syrup before an allergy skin test?
Yes, antihistamines like this one can mask skin test results, so doctors typically advise stopping it a few days beforehand.
Is this syrup safe for babies?
It is generally not recommended for children below 4 years because of a higher risk of breathing-related side effects; a pediatrician should always be consulted first.