What does it do?

Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to treat and prevent allergic conditions such as hayfever and skin rashes.

Before you start

• Tell your health professional if you have kidney problems.
• Tell your health professional if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take cetirizine as directed. You can take it with or without food.
Tablet: Take with a glass of water.
Liquid: Measure carefully with an oral syringe or measuring spoon.

What if you forget a dose?

If you take cetirizine regularly and it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with cetirizine including:

• some antihistamines or anti-nausea medicines such as promethazine, chlorphenamine, hyoscine patches, or meclozine. These can also be in medicines for allergies and colds.

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Dry mouth	Tell your health professional if troublesome
Drowsiness	Unlikely when taken in usual doses. Check you feel okay before driving.

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.