At a glance
| Generic | cetirizine |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Cetirizine HCl 10 mg |
| Type | Oral antihistamine (pill) |
| Label uses | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat |
| Nasal congestion on label | No |
| Drowsiness | May cause drowsiness |
| How often | Once a day |
| Youngest age on label | 6 years |
| Maximum | 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours |
What it treats
The label says Zyrtec temporarily relieves these symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itching of the nose or throat
Dose by age
| Who | Label directions |
|---|---|
| Adults and children 6 years and over | One 10 mg tablet once daily. Do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. The label notes a 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms. |
| Adults 65 and over | Ask a doctor. |
| Children under 6 | Ask a doctor. |
| Liver or kidney disease | Ask a doctor. |
Drowsiness
May cause drowsiness The label says "drowsiness may occur", and to avoid alcohol and be careful driving.
Warnings on the label
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients, or to an antihistamine containing hydroxyzine.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have liver or kidney disease.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you take tranquilizers or sedatives.
- If breast-feeding: not recommended. If pregnant: ask a health professional before use.
Compare Zyrtec with
Frequently asked questions
Is Zyrtec non-drowsy?
The label says "drowsiness may occur", and to avoid alcohol and be careful driving.
How often can you take Zyrtec?
Once a day. Maximum on the label: 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours.
Can children take Zyrtec?
Adults and children 6 years and over: One 10 mg tablet once daily. Do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. The label notes a 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms. Children under 6: Ask a doctor.
Is generic cetirizine the same as Zyrtec?
Store-brand products list their active ingredient on the Drug Facts label. If it says Cetirizine HCl 10 mg, it is the same medicine at the same strength. Check the label for other added ingredients.
Source
Zyrtec Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label). Labeler: Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc.. Checked October 17, 2026. Labels change, so read the one on your box. This page summarizes the label and is not medical advice. How we check.