\u00a0 \u00a0Zyrtec (cetirizine) dosage at a glance<\/h2>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\nAge group<\/b><\/td>\n Dose<\/b><\/td>\n How often<\/b><\/td>\n Max per day<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nAdults and children ages 6 years and older<\/b><\/td>\n 5 or 10 mg<\/td>\n Once daily<\/td>\n 10 mg<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nChildren ages 2 to 5 years old<\/b><\/td>\n 2.5 mg<\/td>\n Once daily<\/td>\n 5 mg<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nChildren under 2 years old<\/b><\/td>\n Consult a healthcare provider<\/td>\n \u2014<\/td>\n \u2014<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nZyrtec dosage for adults<\/h2>\n
The standard adult dose for Zyrtec (or generic cetirizine<\/a>) is 5\u201310 mg once daily, according to the National Institutes of Health<\/a>. The maximum dose is 10 mg per 24 hours.\u00a0<\/p>\nAdults who want quick relief might be tempted to reach for the maximum Zyrtec dose, 10 mg. But for some people, a 5 mg dose adequately relieves allergy symptoms with fewer side effects (namely, drowsiness). The drug label uses \u201csymptom-based language,\u201d meaning that you should take into consideration the severity of allergy symptoms when choosing between a 5 mg or 10 mg dose, according to Kara Wada, MD, FAAAAI<\/a>, a board-certified allergist and immunologist in central Ohio.<\/p>\nSome adults may also require a lower dose because of underlying kidney or liver conditions. \u201cThe kidneys are the primary way the body eliminates cetirizine,\u201d Dr. Wada says. If you have kidney issues, the medication can accumulate, especially if another dose is taken the next day.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The same goes for people with liver problems. \u201cInstead of getting about a day’s worth of effect from a dose, some people may notice the medication seems to last longer, and they may be more likely to experience side effects,\u201d says Chrissie Ott, MD<\/a>, a double board-certified internist and pediatrician in Portland, Oregon.\u00a0 A healthcare professional can determine if reduced kidney function or liver impairment makes Zyrtec unsafe or whether a lower dose of 5 mg per day may be required.\u00a0<\/p>\nFor questions or concerns about safe Zyrtec dosage for adults, consult a licensed healthcare provider.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tZyrtec 10 mg, 100 tablets (1 Bottle)\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t23666 - Hampton, VA\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t![\"Kroger](\"https:\/\/images.singlecare.com\/content\/images\/pharmacy\/logo-color-kroger.svg\")
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\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t$9.34Zyrtec dosage for children\u00a0<\/h2>\n
Children 6 years and older can also take up to 10 mg Zyrtec per day<\/a>. Per the drug label<\/a>, the standard pediatric dose for children 2 to under 6 years of age is 2.5 mg once daily. That said, the dose can be increased to a maximum of 5 mg per day if necessary, administered as<\/a> either a single 5 mg dose or two 2.5 mg doses given every 12 hours.\u00a0<\/p>\n\u201cThe decision [between 2.5 mg or 5 mg] isn’t based on whether the child is 2, 3, 4, or 5 years old. It’s based on how well the symptoms are controlled,\u201d Dr. Ott says. \u201cThe goal is always the lowest effective dose: enough to control symptoms without causing unnecessary sleepiness or other side effects.\u201d<\/p>\n
Zyrtec is not recommended for children under 2 years old without a healthcare provider’s guidance. In some cases, a healthcare professional familiar with the child\u2019s condition and health history may suggest it. Seek personalized medical advice for any questions about Zyrtec for young children.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Children\u2019s Zyrtec<\/a>, like other medications, should be kept out of reach of children. Because Children\u2019s Zyrtec tablets and oral solution are flavored to make them more palatable for children, they present a risk of accidental ingestion if the medicine is stored out in the open or in a place where the child can find it.\u00a0<\/p>\nCan you take Zyrtec twice a day?\u00a0<\/h2>\n
In general, no, you shouldn\u2019t take Zyrtec twice a day<\/a>. Zyrtec is intended to be a once-daily medication, and 10 mg is the maximum dose per day.<\/p>\nThat said, some situations warrant taking Zyrtec twice a day, provided it is<\/i> done under the recommendation and guidance of a healthcare provider:<\/p>\n\n- Two 2.5 mg doses for children: <\/b>If a child aged 2 to under 6 first takes a 2.5 mg dose that does not sufficiently suppress hay fever symptoms, the medication label states that a second 2.5 mg dose can be administered, for a maximum total of 5 mg taken in a 24-hour window.<\/li>\n
- Severe symptoms of certain conditions:<\/b> One study published in The Journal of Dermatological Treatment<\/i><\/a> found that double doses of cetirizine hydrochloride (the active ingredient in Zyrtec) could effectively treat patients with hives (urticaria). Still, this should only be done if recommended by a healthcare provider.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Taking more than the recommended Zyrtec dose can increase the risk of side effects, including serious side effects<\/a> such as seizures or changes in blood pressure or heart rhythm.<\/p>\nWhat happens if you take too much Zyrtec?\u00a0<\/h2>\n
Taking too much Zyrtec can cause Zyrtec overdose<\/a> symptoms, including extreme drowsiness<\/a>, hallucinations,<\/a> rapid heartbeat<\/a>, or, especially in children<\/a>, agitation. People at the greatest risk of symptoms from Zyrtec overdose are children, older adults, and anyone with kidney or liver problems.<\/p>\nIn most cases, accidental cetirizine overdose is not life-threatening. But since taking too much can cause dangerous psychiatric or neurological symptoms<\/a>, it\u2019s important to treat any double-dosing or overdose as a medical emergency. Contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.) or seek urgent medical care if an overdose is suspected.<\/p>\nZyrtec side effects and safety considerations<\/h2>\n
Even safe doses of Zyrtec can cause side effects<\/a>, such as drowsiness, fatigue, and dry mouth, according to MedlinePlus<\/a>. Older adults<\/a> may be more likely to experience sleepiness and fatigue with Zyrtec, so take extra precautions to prevent falls.<\/p>\nThe good news is that second-generation antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin<\/a> are less likely to cause drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines such as Benadryl<\/a>. Drowsiness can also vary depending on the person\u2019s sensitivity to the medication. Until you know how Zyrtec affects you, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.\u00a0<\/p>\nZyrtec isn\u2019t right for everyone. As mentioned above, anyone with kidney or liver problems should consult a healthcare professional before taking Zyrtec. It\u2019s also important to consult a healthcare provider before taking this medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Finally, don\u2019t take Zyrtec with another second-generation antihistamine<\/a> such as Claritin (loratadine<\/a>) or Allegra<\/a> (fexofenadine<\/a>). Also don\u2019t take it with other sedating medications or alcohol<\/a>, since the combination can cause extreme sleepiness and make it harder to think clearly.<\/p>\nHow much does Zyrtec cost?\u00a0<\/h2>\n
Over-the-counter Zyrtec prices vary by pharmacy and location, but you can typically get a much lower price by purchasing generic cetirizine tablets. The average retail price of cetirizine (generic Zyrtec<\/a>) is $23 for 30 10 mg tablets, but at participating pharmacies, a SingleCare coupon or discount card<\/a> can lower the price to $9 for 30 10 mg tablets<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Zyrtec dosage for adults<\/h2>\n
The standard adult dose for Zyrtec (or generic cetirizine<\/a>) is 5\u201310 mg once daily, according to the National Institutes of Health<\/a>. The maximum dose is 10 mg per 24 hours.\u00a0<\/p>\n Adults who want quick relief might be tempted to reach for the maximum Zyrtec dose, 10 mg. But for some people, a 5 mg dose adequately relieves allergy symptoms with fewer side effects (namely, drowsiness). The drug label uses \u201csymptom-based language,\u201d meaning that you should take into consideration the severity of allergy symptoms when choosing between a 5 mg or 10 mg dose, according to Kara Wada, MD, FAAAAI<\/a>, a board-certified allergist and immunologist in central Ohio.<\/p>\n Some adults may also require a lower dose because of underlying kidney or liver conditions. \u201cThe kidneys are the primary way the body eliminates cetirizine,\u201d Dr. Wada says. If you have kidney issues, the medication can accumulate, especially if another dose is taken the next day.\u00a0<\/p>\n The same goes for people with liver problems. \u201cInstead of getting about a day’s worth of effect from a dose, some people may notice the medication seems to last longer, and they may be more likely to experience side effects,\u201d says Chrissie Ott, MD<\/a>, a double board-certified internist and pediatrician in Portland, Oregon.\u00a0 A healthcare professional can determine if reduced kidney function or liver impairment makes Zyrtec unsafe or whether a lower dose of 5 mg per day may be required.\u00a0<\/p>\n For questions or concerns about safe Zyrtec dosage for adults, consult a licensed healthcare provider.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t Save up to 80% on Zyrtec with SingleCare<\/p>\n\t\t\t Different pharmacies offer different prices for the same medication. SingleCare helps find the best price for you.<\/p>\n\t\t\t Children 6 years and older can also take up to 10 mg Zyrtec per day<\/a>. Per the drug label<\/a>, the standard pediatric dose for children 2 to under 6 years of age is 2.5 mg once daily. That said, the dose can be increased to a maximum of 5 mg per day if necessary, administered as<\/a> either a single 5 mg dose or two 2.5 mg doses given every 12 hours.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cThe decision [between 2.5 mg or 5 mg] isn’t based on whether the child is 2, 3, 4, or 5 years old. It’s based on how well the symptoms are controlled,\u201d Dr. Ott says. \u201cThe goal is always the lowest effective dose: enough to control symptoms without causing unnecessary sleepiness or other side effects.\u201d<\/p>\n Zyrtec is not recommended for children under 2 years old without a healthcare provider’s guidance. In some cases, a healthcare professional familiar with the child\u2019s condition and health history may suggest it. Seek personalized medical advice for any questions about Zyrtec for young children.\u00a0<\/p>\n Children\u2019s Zyrtec<\/a>, like other medications, should be kept out of reach of children. Because Children\u2019s Zyrtec tablets and oral solution are flavored to make them more palatable for children, they present a risk of accidental ingestion if the medicine is stored out in the open or in a place where the child can find it.\u00a0<\/p>\n In general, no, you shouldn\u2019t take Zyrtec twice a day<\/a>. Zyrtec is intended to be a once-daily medication, and 10 mg is the maximum dose per day.<\/p>\n That said, some situations warrant taking Zyrtec twice a day, provided it is<\/i> done under the recommendation and guidance of a healthcare provider:<\/p>\n Taking more than the recommended Zyrtec dose can increase the risk of side effects, including serious side effects<\/a> such as seizures or changes in blood pressure or heart rhythm.<\/p>\n Taking too much Zyrtec can cause Zyrtec overdose<\/a> symptoms, including extreme drowsiness<\/a>, hallucinations,<\/a> rapid heartbeat<\/a>, or, especially in children<\/a>, agitation. People at the greatest risk of symptoms from Zyrtec overdose are children, older adults, and anyone with kidney or liver problems.<\/p>\n In most cases, accidental cetirizine overdose is not life-threatening. But since taking too much can cause dangerous psychiatric or neurological symptoms<\/a>, it\u2019s important to treat any double-dosing or overdose as a medical emergency. Contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.) or seek urgent medical care if an overdose is suspected.<\/p>\n Even safe doses of Zyrtec can cause side effects<\/a>, such as drowsiness, fatigue, and dry mouth, according to MedlinePlus<\/a>. Older adults<\/a> may be more likely to experience sleepiness and fatigue with Zyrtec, so take extra precautions to prevent falls.<\/p>\n The good news is that second-generation antihistamines such as Zyrtec and Claritin<\/a> are less likely to cause drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines such as Benadryl<\/a>. Drowsiness can also vary depending on the person\u2019s sensitivity to the medication. Until you know how Zyrtec affects you, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.\u00a0<\/p>\n Zyrtec isn\u2019t right for everyone. As mentioned above, anyone with kidney or liver problems should consult a healthcare professional before taking Zyrtec. It\u2019s also important to consult a healthcare provider before taking this medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.\u00a0<\/p>\n Finally, don\u2019t take Zyrtec with another second-generation antihistamine<\/a> such as Claritin (loratadine<\/a>) or Allegra<\/a> (fexofenadine<\/a>). Also don\u2019t take it with other sedating medications or alcohol<\/a>, since the combination can cause extreme sleepiness and make it harder to think clearly.<\/p>\n Over-the-counter Zyrtec prices vary by pharmacy and location, but you can typically get a much lower price by purchasing generic cetirizine tablets. The average retail price of cetirizine (generic Zyrtec<\/a>) is $23 for 30 10 mg tablets, but at participating pharmacies, a SingleCare coupon or discount card<\/a> can lower the price to $9 for 30 10 mg tablets<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\tZyrtec dosage for children\u00a0<\/h2>\n
Can you take Zyrtec twice a day?\u00a0<\/h2>\n
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What happens if you take too much Zyrtec?\u00a0<\/h2>\n
Zyrtec side effects and safety considerations<\/h2>\n
How much does Zyrtec cost?\u00a0<\/h2>\n