Cetirizine

Antihistamine
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Cetirizine is a antihistamine found in 10 medicines sold in India, such as Cetzine, Okacet, Alerid. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, hives and other allergies.

How it works

A newer antihistamine that blocks histamine with much less drowsiness than older ones, easing sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, hives and itching.

How to take it

Adults and children over 12: 10 mg once a day, with or without food. Some people find it is best taken at night.

Common side effects

  • Mild drowsiness
  • Tiredness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache

Get medical help straight away if

  • Allergic swelling or breathlessness
  • Difficulty passing urine

Be careful

Can cause mild drowsiness in some people.

Other medicines and interactions

Alcohol and sedatives can add to drowsiness.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

One of the preferred antihistamines in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed, at the usual dose; ask a pharmacist first.

Brands of Cetirizine (9)

AleridCetcip 10CetirizCetzineCTZ 10Incid-LOkacetPiracitZyrtec 10

Combination medicines that contain Cetirizine (1)

Cheston Cold

Common questions

What is Cetirizine used for?

Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, hives and other allergies.

How does Cetirizine work?

A newer antihistamine that blocks histamine with much less drowsiness than older ones, easing sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, hives and itching.

How should I take Cetirizine?

Adults and children over 12: 10 mg once a day, with or without food. Some people find it is best taken at night.

What are the side effects of Cetirizine?

Common: Mild drowsiness, tiredness, dry mouth, headache. Get help straight away for: Allergic swelling or breathlessness, difficulty passing urine.

Does Cetirizine interact with other medicines?

Alcohol and sedatives can add to drowsiness.

Is Cetirizine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

One of the preferred antihistamines in pregnancy and breastfeeding when needed, at the usual dose; ask a pharmacist first.

Does Cetirizine need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Cetirizine?

Alerid, Cetcip 10, Cetiriz, Cetzine, Cheston Cold, CTZ 10, Incid-L, Okacet, Piracit, Zyrtec 10.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.