Is it safe to take more than one Zyrtec a day. What are the potential side effects of doubling your Zyrtec dose. How does Zyrtec compare to other antihistamines in terms of safety at higher doses. What should you do if you accidentally take two Zyrtec pills.

Understanding Zyrtec: Uses and Recommended Dosage

Zyrtec, also known by its generic name cetirizine, is a popular over-the-counter antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms. The standard recommended dose for adults and children over 6 years old is one 10-milligram tablet per day. However, when allergy symptoms become particularly severe, some may wonder if taking an extra dose could provide additional relief.

What is Zyrtec used for?

Zyrtec is primarily used to alleviate symptoms associated with:

• Seasonal allergies (hay fever)
• Year-round allergies (dust, pet dander)
• Hives (urticaria)
• Itching

The Safety of Taking Multiple Zyrtec Doses

While taking two Zyrtec pills at once is not recommended without medical supervision, experts suggest that an isolated incident of doubling the dose is unlikely to cause severe health consequences. Dr. Marilyn Hill, an ambulatory pharmacy manager at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, advises that there’s limited evidence to support doubling the dose for typical allergy symptoms without consulting a healthcare provider.

Are there situations where a higher Zyrtec dose is prescribed?

In some cases, doctors may prescribe a double dose of Zyrtec for patients with severe hives when a single pill proves ineffective. However, this should only be done under medical supervision and not as a self-prescribed remedy.

Research on High-Dose Antihistamine Use

Scientific studies have explored the effects of increased antihistamine doses, including those similar to Zyrtec. A study published in the journal Clinical and Translational Allergy investigated the impact of administering up to eight times the typical antihistamine dose to patients with chronic hives who didn’t respond to standard treatment.

What were the findings of the high-dose antihistamine study?

The results showed that:

1. Almost half of the participants who received more than four times the standard dose experienced fewer or no hives.
2. Approximately 20% of subjects reported side effects, primarily sleepiness.
3. No serious adverse effects were observed, even at doses up to eight times the standard amount.

Potential Side Effects of Increased Zyrtec Dosage

While Zyrtec is generally considered safe, taking higher doses can increase the likelihood and severity of side effects. J. Russell May, Pharm.D., a clinical professor of pharmacology at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, emphasizes that drowsiness is the main risk associated with doubling up on Zyrtec.

What are the common side effects of Zyrtec?

According to the National Library of Medicine, common side effects of Zyrtec include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Sore throat

Children may also experience headaches and stomach pain, even at normal doses.

Zyrtec and Heart Rhythm: QT Interval Considerations

Some antihistamines can affect the heart’s electrical activity, specifically the QT interval. A prolonged QT interval can potentially lead to dangerous irregular heart rhythms. However, research has shown that Zyrtec appears to have minimal impact on this measure.

Has Zyrtec been tested for its effect on QT intervals?

Yes, a study published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology examined Zyrtec’s impact on QT intervals. The research found that even at doses up to five times the normal amount, Zyrtec did not significantly prolong QT intervals, suggesting a favorable cardiac safety profile.

Risks of Antihistamine Overdose

While Zyrtec is considered relatively safe, it’s essential to understand the potential risks associated with excessive intake. Overdosing on Zyrtec rarely results in life-threatening consequences, but it can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and, in some cases, liver-related issues.

Can Zyrtec overdose cause liver problems?

There have been isolated reports of liver-related symptoms and abnormal liver function tests in individuals taking Zyrtec for several days, as noted in a review published in the Gastroenterology Report. However, these cases are rare, and liver function typically returned to normal after discontinuing the medication.

Recognizing Signs of Antihistamine Overdose

If you’ve accidentally taken more than the recommended dose of Zyrtec, it’s important to be aware of potential overdose symptoms. The most common indicators of excessive antihistamine intake are increased drowsiness and dry mouth.

What should you do if you experience antihistamine overdose symptoms?

If you notice unusual drowsiness or severe dry mouth after taking Zyrtec, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider. These symptoms may indicate that you’ve taken more than the recommended dose and should not continue with increased intake.

Managing Accidental Double Doses of Zyrtec

If you realize you’ve accidentally taken two Zyrtec pills, there’s generally no need for immediate concern or action. In most cases, even children who accidentally double their dose don’t require specific treatment. However, it’s essential to monitor for any unusual symptoms and manage them appropriately.

Are there any precautions to take after accidentally doubling your Zyrtec dose?

After taking a double dose of Zyrtec, consider the following precautions:

• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery due to increased drowsiness risk
• Stay hydrated to combat dry mouth
• Monitor for any unusual symptoms
• Consult a healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent side effects

Alternatives to Increasing Zyrtec Dosage

If you find that a single dose of Zyrtec isn’t effectively controlling your allergy symptoms, it’s important to explore other options rather than simply increasing the dosage on your own. Consulting with an allergist or primary care physician can help identify more suitable approaches to managing your allergies.

What are some alternatives to taking extra Zyrtec?

Consider these alternatives for better allergy management:

1. Combining Zyrtec with a nasal corticosteroid spray
2. Switching to a different antihistamine
3. Exploring immunotherapy options (allergy shots or sublingual tablets)
4. Implementing environmental control measures to reduce allergen exposure
5. Using saline nasal rinses to clear allergens from nasal passages

Long-Term Considerations for Zyrtec Use

While Zyrtec is generally safe for long-term use, it’s important to periodically reassess your allergy management strategy with a healthcare professional. This can help ensure that you’re using the most effective and appropriate treatment for your specific needs.

How often should you review your allergy medication regimen?

It’s recommended to review your allergy medication plan:

• At least once a year
• When experiencing changes in allergy symptoms
• If you develop new health conditions or start new medications
• Before major life changes (e.g., pregnancy, moving to a new climate)

Comparing Zyrtec to Other Antihistamines

Zyrtec is one of several second-generation antihistamines available over the counter. Understanding how it compares to other options can help you make informed decisions about your allergy treatment.

How does Zyrtec differ from other common antihistamines?

Here’s a brief comparison of Zyrtec with other popular antihistamines:

• Zyrtec (cetirizine): Fast-acting, may cause more drowsiness than some alternatives
• Claritin (loratadine): Less likely to cause drowsiness, may take longer to take effect
• Allegra (fexofenadine): Least likely to cause drowsiness, may be less effective for some individuals
• Xyzal (levocetirizine): Similar to Zyrtec but may be more potent for some users

Special Considerations for Zyrtec Use in Children

While Zyrtec is approved for use in children as young as 2 years old, it’s crucial to follow age-appropriate dosing guidelines and be aware of potential side effects specific to pediatric use.

What should parents know about giving Zyrtec to children?

Important considerations for pediatric Zyrtec use include:

1. Always use the appropriate child-specific formulation and dosage
2. Be aware that children may be more prone to headaches and stomach pain as side effects
3. Monitor for changes in behavior or alertness, especially when first starting the medication
4. Consult a pediatrician before using Zyrtec in children under 2 years old
5. Avoid using adult formulations or doses for children unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider

Zyrtec Interactions with Other Medications and Substances

While Zyrtec is generally safe, it can interact with certain medications and substances. Understanding these interactions is crucial for ensuring the safe and effective use of the antihistamine.

What are some common interactions to be aware of when taking Zyrtec?

Be cautious of potential interactions between Zyrtec and:

• Alcohol: Can increase drowsiness and dizziness
• Central nervous system depressants: May enhance sedative effects
• Certain antifungal medications: Can increase Zyrtec levels in the blood
• Theophylline: May reduce the effectiveness of Zyrtec

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking before starting Zyrtec.

Natural Alternatives and Complementary Approaches to Allergy Management

While antihistamines like Zyrtec are effective for many allergy sufferers, some individuals may prefer to explore natural or complementary approaches to managing their symptoms. These methods can be used alongside or as alternatives to traditional allergy medications.

What are some natural approaches to allergy relief?

Consider these natural and complementary strategies for allergy management:

1. Nasal irrigation with saline solution
2. Consumption of local honey to potentially build tolerance to local pollens
3. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet
4. Using essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint for congestion relief
5. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
6. Acupuncture for potential symptom relief
7. Herbal supplements such as butterbur or stinging nettle (consult a healthcare provider before use)

The Future of Allergy Treatment: Beyond Antihistamines

As research in allergy treatment continues to advance, new approaches and therapies are being developed that may offer alternatives or complements to traditional antihistamines like Zyrtec. Staying informed about these developments can help allergy sufferers make the best choices for their long-term health and symptom management.

What emerging treatments show promise for allergy relief?

Some promising areas of research and development in allergy treatment include:

• Biologic therapies targeting specific immune pathways
• Novel immunotherapy approaches, including oral and epicutaneous methods
• Gut microbiome modulation to influence allergic responses
• Gene therapy to potentially prevent or reverse allergic sensitization
• Personalized medicine approaches based on individual genetic and environmental factors

In conclusion, while Zyrtec is a safe and effective antihistamine for many allergy sufferers, it’s crucial to use it responsibly and as directed. If you find that your current allergy management strategy isn’t providing adequate relief, consult with a healthcare professional to explore alternative options or adjustments to your treatment plan. Remember that allergy management is often a dynamic process, and staying informed about new developments and approaches can help you achieve the best possible outcomes in managing your symptoms.

Can You Take Two Zyrtec at Once?

Getty Images/AsiaVision

Allergies can be a moving target. Just when you think you’ve got your symptoms under control, the pollen count soars and you’re right back where you started. The popular allergy medicine Zyrtec (cetirizine) promises allergy relief with a single-tablet dose. But what if you take two doses—either accidentally or because you desperately need relief? Relax, say the experts. It’s not a great idea, but an isolated incident of taking two Zyrtec is unlikely to have major health effects.

In fact, some doctors double the dose of Zyrtec for their patients with severe hives if a single pill isn’t working. In general, though, “for anyone with typical allergy symptoms, there’s not a ton of evidence to suggest that that’s a good move without medical supervision,” says Marilyn Hill, Pharm.D., an ambulatory pharmacy manager at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. Popping two Zyrtec pills probably won’t hurt you, but there are better options, says Hill. If your allergies aren’t well controlled on a single 10-milligram pill, talk to your allergist or primary care doctor about other ways to reign in your symptoms.

How Safe Is Zyrtec at High Doses?

Still worried about your double dose? You should know that scientists have bumped up the dose of antihistamines like Zyrtec significantly without any major issues. In one study published in the journal Clinical and Translational Allergy, 138 people with chronic hives who didn’t improve on the normal one-pill dose were given four times the usual dose of antihistamines similar to Zyrtec. Ninety-seven people still didn’t respond to the fourfold dose. Of them, 59 people then were given a combination of two different antihistamines for a total of eight times the typical dose.

What happened? Almost half of people who got more than a fourfold dose had fewer or no hives (which means more than half didn’t see an improvement). About one in five people had side effects from high-dose antihistamines—mainly sleepiness. But even taking up to eight times the standard dose didn’t cause any serious side effects.

Some antihistamines affect what’s known as your QT interval—a measurement of the heart’s rhythm. Having a prolonged QT interval can lead to a dangerous irregular heart rhythm. Zyrtec has been tested at up to five times the normal dose without lengthening QT intervals, according to a study in the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology.

Zyrtec Side Effects

All of which is to say: Zyrtec is a relatively safe drug, according to J. Russell May, Pharm.D., a clinical professor of pharmacology at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy in Augusta, GA. “Drowsiness would be the main risk,” he says. “If somebody has to go on a drive or be alert for whatever reason, I would not double up on Zyrtec, for sure.”

Other common side effects with Zyrtec, noted in an overview of the drug from the National Library of Medicine, include:

• Dizziness

• Dry mouth

• Sore throat

Children who take Zyrtec have these same side effects. Kids are also more likely to have headaches, even at normal doses, says Dr. May. Some kids also have belly pain.

Dangers of Antihistamine Overdose

Overdosing on Zyrtec rarely results in emergency room-type consequences, says Hill. In studies, lab animals had to be given 460 times the recommended dose to have life-threatening effects, according to the National Library of Medicine.

But because your liver processes any medications you take, liver damage could be a problem, especially in older adults whose bodies break down medications more slowly and in people who already have liver disease. There have been reports of people developing jaundice and other symptoms of a liver problem, or having abnormal liver function tests while taking Zyrtec for several days, according to a review of cetirizine-caused liver damage in the journal Gastroenterology Report. Liver function returned to normal after they stopped taking this medicine.

Antihistamine Overdose Symptoms

The first clue that you’ve taken too much of any antihistamine is that you’ll feel more tired than usual. “If somebody’s feeling sleepy or has dry mouth, definitely talk to your provider,” says Hill. “Those are the kinds of side effects that you might experience if you do double up.”

Again, while side effects are generally mild and overdosing on Zyrtec is nearly impossible at toxic levels, drowsiness and dry mouth are signs that you shouldn’t be taking more than one Zyrtec pill, Hill adds.

What to Do If You Accidentally Take Two Zyrtec Pills

It’s natural to worry if you realize you’ve accidently doubled your dose, but in most cases, you won’t need to do anything if you mistakenly take two pills. Even children usually don’t need treatment after a double dose. Just manage any symptoms you or your child has.

Do be more cautious after you’ve taken a higher dose, though, and definitely stay off the road. “Know that you’re probably going to be drowsy. I wouldn’t be driving a car or doing other things that require you to be mentally alert,” Dr. May says.

When to Seek Emergency Help

The good news: You shouldn’t need emergency medical help for taking double the dose of Zyrtec, unless it’s your first time taking Zyrtec and you have a severe allergic reaction. It might sound odd that an allergy medicine can cause an allergic reaction, but it can happen (not due to a double dose, simply because your body is allergic to any amount of the medicine). Look for symptoms like these:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Swelling of your mouth, lips, or tongue

• Trouble swallowing

These symptoms require emergency medical assistance, says Dr. May. Call 911 or go to an emergency room right away. If you’re in doubt about what to do after you or your child takes too much Zyrtec, call your local pharmacy or the Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) for advice, Hill advises.

Bottom line: Although Zyrtec probably won’t hurt you if you take too much, following the dosing instructions on the bottle is still the best approach to taking this—and any other—antihistamine. Says Hill, “More is not better. Over-the-counter drugs are still drugs.”

Notes: This article was originally published July 12, 2008 and most recently updated May 30, 2023.

Safety of High-Dose Antihistamines: Clinical and Translational Allergy. (2017.) “Effectiveness and Safety of Antihistamines Up to Fourfold or Higher in Treatment of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria.” https://ctajournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13601-017-0141-3#Sec7

Effects of Zyrtec on QT Interval: Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology. (2007.) “The Effect of Antihistamine Cetirizine on Ventricular Repolarization in Congenital Long QT Syndrome.” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17506855/

Zyrtec Side Effects: StatPearls. (2023.) “Cetirizine.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549776/

Liver Damage from Zyrtec: Gastroenterology Report. (2018.) “Cetirizine-Induced Hepatotoxicity: Case Series and Review of the Literature.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6101603/

Our Review Process

Zyrtec Dosing Charts for Adult & Children’s Cetirizine Products

Products ∕ ZYRTEC® Dosing Charts For Adult and Children’s Cetirizine HCl Products

Whether you need to know ZYRTEC® dosages for adults or children, check out our dosing charts and FAQs for the ZYRTEC® family of products, to find all the information you need.

When taking any medication, it’s important to take the recommended dosage. If you’re in doubt, follow the instructions on the product packaging or our dosage chart below.

Filter by:

Use only as directed.

Under 2
Ask a doctor

2 to under 6 years
2.5 mL once daily. If needed, dose can be increased to a maximum of 5mL once daily or 2.5 mL every 12 hours

Do not give more than 5 mL in 24 hours

6+ years
5 mL or 10 mL once daily depending on severity of symptoms.

Do not give more than 10 ml in 24 hours

Adults 65 years and over
5 mL once daily; do not take more than 5 mL in 24 hours.

Consumers with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Use only as directed.

Under 2
Ask a doctor

6+ years
One 10 mg tablet once daily; do not give more than 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.

Adults 65 years and over
Ask a doctor.

Consumers with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Use only as directed.

Under 2
Ask a doctor

2 to under 6 years
2.5 mL once daily. If needed, dose can be increased to a maximum of 5mL once daily or 2.5 mL every 12 hours

Do not give more than 5 mL in 24 hours

6+ years
5 mL or 10 mL once daily depending on severity of symptoms.

Do not give more than 10 ml in 24 hours

Adults 65 years and over
Chew and swallow 2 tablets (5 mg) once daily; do not take more than 2 tablets (5 mg) in 24 hours.

Consumers with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Use only as directed.

Under 6 years
Ask a doctor.

6+ years
Chew and swallow 1 tablet (10 mg) once daily; do not give more than 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.

Adults 65 years and over
Ask a doctor.

Consumers with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Use only as directed.

Children under 6 years of age
Ask a doctor

Adults under 65 and children 6 years and older
One 10 mg tablet once daily; do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.

Adults 65 years and over
Ask a doctor.

Consumers with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Use only as directed.

Children under 6 years of age
Ask a doctor.

Adults under 65 and children 6 years and older
One 10 mg tablet once daily; do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.

Adults 65 years and over
Ask a doctor.

Consumers with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Use only as directed.

Adults under 65 and children 12 years and older
One 10 mg capsule once daily; do not take more than one 10 mg capsule in 24 hours.

Adults 65 years and over
Ask a doctor.

Adults with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Children under 12 years of age
Ask a doctor.

Use only as directed.

Adults and children 6 years and older
Chew and swallow 2 tablet (10 mg) once daily; do not take more than 1 tablet (10 mg) in 24 hours. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.

Adults 65 years and over
Ask a doctor.

Adults with liver or kidney disease
Ask a doctor.

Children under 6 years of age
Ask a doctor.

Dosage, analogues, active substance, for which it is prescribed

Date of publication: 25.08.2022 POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED.

• Zyrtec: what is it for
• Zyrtec: active ingredient
• Zyrtec: composition
• Zirtek: dosage
• Zirtek: drops for children
• Zirtek: analogues
• Zirtek or Zodak: which is better
• Zirtek or Cetrin: which is better
• Zirtek or Erius: which is better 9 0016
• Executive summary
• Ask an expert on the topic of the article

Allergic rhinitis is a disease accompanied by itching in the nasal cavity, endless watery discharge from the nose, paroxysmal sneezing and absolute nasal congestion. And such symptoms appear with the beginning of flowering plants. It’s all about the reaction of the body to irritating factors from the outside. In the case of allergic rhinitis, this is plant pollen.

During this period, people suffering from this disease are helped by antihistamines. One of them is Zyrtec. We asked pharmacist Kristina Khokhrina to tell us more about it, and this is what she told us: what it is used for, what is included in the composition of the product, in what dosage it is used and whether it is suitable for children. We also provided a small list of similar antihistamines and found differences between Zirtek and Zodak, Citrine and Erius.

All products Zyrtec

3 reviews

Zyrtec: what

Zyrtec is used for for allergies. The main indications for the use of Zirtek:

• allergic rhinitis
• allergic conjunctivitis
• symptoms of chronic urticaria

The drug acts on the skin one hour after ingestion. Maximum efficiency is achieved within 2-12 hours. The effect gradually decreases, but persists for a day.

Zyrtec: active ingredient

Zyrtec: composition

Zyrtec is available in two forms: drops and tablets. Let’s talk about the composition of both drugs. The active substance in both forms is the same, only the auxiliary components change, since they determine the form of the drug.

Zyrtec drops: glycerol, propylene glycol, sodium saccharinate, methylparabenzene, propylparabenzene, sodium acetate, glacial acetic acid, purified water.

Zyrtec tablets: microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, macrogol.

Zyrtec: dosage

The dosage of Zyrtec is determined by the amount of active ingredient per 1 ml drops or 1 tablet. In both cases, cetirizine is contained in a dosage of 10 mg.

The drug is prescribed for adults and children from 6 months. For each age, a certain dose is established. The manufacturer recommends taking Zirtek in the evening, as the symptoms of allergic diseases are most pronounced at night. It is taken with or without food and can be taken with water as needed.

Adults are advised to take 20 drops or 1 tablet once a day, which corresponds to a dosage of the substance 10 mg. Reception Zirtek in drops can be single in the evening or divided into 2 doses. For example, 10 drops in the morning and evening.

Zyrtec side effects

Zyrtec may rarely cause the following side effects:

• general fatigue
• dizziness
• headache
• abdominal pain
• dry mouth
• nausea
• drowsiness

Children may additionally develop diarrhea. When taking medication, pay attention to your condition. If any changes appear, described or not described in the instructions, or if allergy symptoms increase, consult a doctor.

Zyrtec Drops for Children

Zyrtec should only be used in children aged 6 to 12 months on prescription and under the supervision of a physician. The drug is prescribed depending on age:

• 6 to 12 months: Take 5 drops (2.5 mg) once a day
• 1 to 6 years: Take 5 drops (2.5 mg) twice a day in the morning and evening, or 10 drops (5 mg) once a day in the evening
• 6 to 12 years: Take 20 drops (10 mg) once daily
• over 12 years old: take 20 drops (10 mg) once a day

Zyrtec may be used during pregnancy after consulting a physician only if the intended benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. The same applies to use during lactation, since cetirizine passes into the mother’s breast milk.

Zyrtec: analogues

Zyrtec is one of the representatives of the group of antihistamines. Its analogues contain the same active ingredient: cetirizine:

• Cetirizine
• Zincette
• Zodak
• Cetrin
• Sensor
• Soloneks

Preparations with a different composition, for example, Erius, can also be analogues of Zirtek. Let’s compare Zodak with some of the remedies from this list.

Zyrtec or Zodak: which is better

The preparations have the same active substance, which defines them as antiallergic agents. Indications for use, dosage of the active substance, side effects and other characteristics of Zirtek and Zodak are the same.

The drugs are as similar as possible and even have the same forms of release: drops and tablets. The only difference is the manufacturers. Zyrtec is made in Switzerland, and Zodak is made in Russia, which is reflected in the price of the funds. Therefore, when choosing what is better to buy: Zodak or Zirtek, be guided by your preference, since the drugs are identical in terms of effectiveness.

Zyrtec or Cetrin: which is better

Similar to Zyrtec, Cetrin contains the same active ingredient in the same dosage of tofu. According to their characteristics, the preparations are identical, except that only Cetrin’s indications are slightly wider. It is additionally used for:

• itching allergic dermatoses: atopic dermatitis, etc.
• angioedema angioedema

Cetrin is available in tablet form only and is indicated for use in adults and children over 6 years of age, just like Zyrtec tablets. Manufacturers of drugs are also different, Citrine is produced in India. When choosing products, pay attention to the age of the patient and your preference in the manufacturer.

Zirtek or Erius: what is better

Zirtek and Erius are drugs for allergic manifestations. Their most important difference is the active substance.

Erius – contains desloratadine. It is produced in the form of tablets and syrup. The dosage of the active substance is 5 mg per 1 tablet and 0.5 mg per 1 ml of syrup. Erius is used by adults and children from 12 years old, and syrup can be given from 1 year old. The use of Erius does not adversely affect driving.

The method of administration depends on the age of the patient. Of course, manufacturers also differ: Erius is a Belgian drug.

Zyrtec – contains cetirizine. There are much more contraindications for use than Erius. Caution should be exercised when driving vehicles, as cetirizine causes drowsiness.

Thus, when choosing an antihistamine Erius or Zodak, pay attention to the list of contraindications and side effects. Especially if your activity is connected with increased concentration of attention.

All products Cetrin

20 reviews

All products Zodak

20 reviews

All products Erius

20 reviews

Summary

• Zirtek is an antihistamine that is used to eliminate allergic reactions in allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis, as well as urticaria.
• The active substance of Zyrtec is cetirizine, and the auxiliary components depend on the form of release: drops or tablets.
• The dosage of Zyrtec is the same, for example, 1 tablet or 20 drops of the drug contains 10 mg of the active ingredient.
• Both forms of Zyrtec are suitable for children, tablets can be taken from 6 years and drops from 6 months.
• Zyrtec analogues include many products, some of them have different active ingredients.
• When comparing Zyrtec with Zodak, we found differences only in drug manufacturers. Cetrin is distinguished by the absence of a release form in the form of drops and also by the manufacturer. But Erius has the largest number of differences, which we described in the article.

Ask an expert about Article

Still have questions? Ask them in the comments below and our experts will answer you. There you can also share your experience with other readers of Megasovets.

Share the mega tip

Like this article? Tell mom, dad, grandma and aunt Galya from the third entrance

Copy link

Zodak® – Frequently Asked Questions

Hide sourcesShow sources

1. Instructions for medical use Zodak®: tablets 10 mg reg. nom. P N013867/01; drops for oral administration 10 mg/ml reg.nom. LS-000433. State Register of Medicinal
   funds. Access mode:
   http://grls.rosminzdrav.ru/GRLS.aspx?RegNumber=&MnnR=Cetirizine&lf=&TradeNmR=Zodak&OwnerName=&MnfOrg=&MnfOrgCountry=&isfs=0&isND=-1&regtype=1%2c6&pageSize=10&order=RegDate&
   orderType=desc&pageNum=1 (accessed 02/15/2021).
2. Bodnya O.S., Nenasheva N.M. 2nd generation antihistamines for allergic rhinitis: real clinical experience. Breast cancer No. 3 dated 05/28/2019: 45-50.
3. Nikitina I.V., Tarasova M.V. Chronic urticaria. RMJ No. 8 dated 04/15/2008: 542.
4. RAAKI. Clinical guidelines. Allergic rhinitis, 2020; 84 p. https://raaci.ru/dat/pdf/allergic_rhinitis.pdf (date of access: 03.03.2021).
5. RAAKI. Federal clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. Moscow 2013; 16 p.
   https://minzdrav.gov-murman.ru/documents/poryadki-okazaniya-meditsinskoy-pomoshchi/3.allergic_conjunctivitis.pdf (date of access: 17.02.2021).
6. Clinical guidelines. Hives. Year of approval: 2019; 57 p. https://raaci.ru/dat/pdf/urticaria-project.pdf (date of access: 17.02.2021).
7. Bykov A. S. et al. Medical microbiology, virology and immunology. Atlas-guide. – 2018.
8. Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: (clinical recommendations) / [Arefyeva N. A. et al.]; ed. A. S. Lopatina; Russian Society of Rhinologists. – M: Practical medicine, 2015. – 96 p.
9. Khaitov R.M. Immunology: textbook / R.M. Khaitov. – 2nd ed., revised. and additional – 2013. – 528 p.: ill.
10. Novitsky V.V. Pathophysiology. In 2 volumes. Volume 1: textbook / ed. V.V. Novitsky, E.D. Goldberg, O.I. Urazova – 4th ed., revised. and additional – M. : GEOTAR-Media, 2015. – 848 p.
11. Gushchin I.S. Cetirizine is the reference H1 antihistamine. Preparations and technologies. 2009; 5(61): 60-70.
12. Polosyants O.B. Review of first and second generation antihistamines, rational approach to clinical use. Attending physician #07/11.
    https://www.lvrach.ru/2011/07/15435242 (date of access: 02/17/2021).
13. RAAKI. Clinical guidelines. Allergic rhinitis, 2020. https://raaci.ru/dat/pdf/allergic_rhinitis.pdf (date of access: 03/02/2021).
14. Kharkevich D. A. Fundamentals of pharmacology. – 2008.
15. Samsygina G.A. Cough in children. Clinical guide / G.A. Samsygin – Moscow: GEOTAR-Media, 2017 – 176 p.
16. Samsygina G.A. Treatment of cough in children. Health for everyone. 2009; 57-62.
17. Clinical guidelines. Acute respiratory viral infection.