Cetirizine is an over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medication that is easily available at pharmacies. As an antihistamine, it helps alleviate allergy symptoms and is available in different forms such as capsules, tablets, and syrup forms. Cetirizine is suitable for use in adults and children aged six years and older. However, some forms are also approved for children aged 2 to 5 years. Continue reading to learn more about cetirizine syrup for kids.
How Does Cetirizine Help?
If you suffer from year-round or seasonal allergies like hay fever, your doctor may suggest cetirizine as a treatment option. Cetirizine is an antihistamine that helps alleviate allergy symptoms such as:
- Watery eyes
- Itchy eyes or nose
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- General itching
- Hives
It’s commonly used to treat conditions like conjunctivitis (itchy, red eyes), hay fever, hives (urticaria), eczema, reactions to insect stings and bites, and some food allergies. Cetirizine works by blocking histamine, a natural substance your body produces when it encounters allergens like pet dander, plant pollen, or mould. These allergic reactions typically affect your sinuses, throat, nose, and other parts of your upper respiratory system.
Is Cetirizine Suitable for Kids?
Cetirizine can be given to children starting from age one, but it should only be used if prescribed by a doctor. Cetirizine syrup for kids aged two and above can be purchased from a pharmacy after consulting a doctor. Children aged six and older can use cetirizine in liquid syrup or tablet form. Once they reach the age of 12, children can take cetirizine syrup, capsule or tablet, which can also be bought over the counter at pharmacies and supermarkets.
Cetirizine Dosage for Children
For children aged 6 to 11 years, the recommended dose is 5 mg, taken twice a day, ideally with 10 to 12 hours between doses—one dose in the morning and another before bed. For children aged 2 to 5 years, the typical dose is 2.5 mg, taken twice daily. For children aged 1 to 2 years, the appropriate dosage is determined by a doctor based on the child’s weight or age.
How to Give Cetirizine to Children?
Cetirizine can be taken with or without food, but always accompany capsules or tablets with a drink of milk, water, or squash. Make sure your kids swallow the capsules or tablets whole; do not chew them. For children, the cetirizine syrup may be easier to take than tablets. Cetirizine syrup for kids usually comes with a plastic spoon or syringe to ensure accurate dosing. If you don’t have one, ask your pharmacist for assistance. Avoid using a kitchen teaspoon, as it won’t measure the correct amount.
When to Give Cetirizine to Children?
Cetirizine can be administered once or twice daily.
- Once a day: You can give it in the evening or morning.
- Twice a day: Administer once in the morning and once in the evening, ideally 10–12 hours apart, such as between 7-8 AM and 7-8 PM.
Try to give the medication at the same time(s) every day to help make it a consistent part of your child’s routine, making it easier to remember.
Possible Side Effects of Giving Cetirizine to Children
While cetirizine is used to help your child feel better, it can sometimes cause unwanted side effects. Here are some you should be aware of:
- Drowsiness: Your child might feel drowsy, sleepy, or sluggish for a few hours after taking cetirizine. It may be helpful to give the medicine in the evening rather than in the morning.
- Dizziness: Your child may feel dizzy or light-headed when standing up. Encourage them to sit down for a while after taking the medicine, stand up slowly, and sit or lie down if they feel dizzy.
- Dry mouth: Your child might experience a dry mouth. Eating citrus fruits like oranges and sipping water can help alleviate this.
- Headache: Headache can also occur.
- Blurred Vision: Your child’s vision may become blurred or fuzzy.
- Constipation: If your child has difficulty passing stools or does so less frequently, ensure he/she drinks plenty of fluids and eats fibre-rich foods like fruits, whole grains, and vegetables. If constipation persists for more than two weeks, consult your doctor.
- Urination Issues: Your child may urinate less often or have difficulty doing so. If this happens, contact your doctor.
- Irregular Heart Rate: If your child experiences a fluttering or racing heart, contact your doctor immediately.
Cetirizine is a widely used antihistamine that effectively alleviates allergy symptoms in both adults and children. It is generally safe for children as young as one year old when prescribed by a doctor, and it can be purchased over the counter for older children. However, proper dosage and administration are crucial due to potential risk of side effects. Always consult a paediatrician to ensure that cetirizine is the right choice for managing your child’s allergy symptoms, and monitor him/her closely for any adverse reactions. With the right precautions, cetirizine can be a helpful tool in keeping your child comfortable and symptom-free.
