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Zyrtec Dosage Charts for Infants and Children

Medically reviewed by Judith Stewart, BPharm. Last updated on Nov 29, 2022.

Use these dosage guides for infants and children younger than 12 years old.

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine used for the temporary relief of symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies:

Always read the label on the packaging and follow the directions for use carefully before giving a dose.

Children’s Zyrtec Dosage

Children’s Zyrtec Allergy Syrup (cetirizine hydrochloride 5 mg in 5 mL)

  • Use only enclosed dosing cup specifically designed for use with this product. Do not use any other dosing device.
  • Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child.
  • Find the right dose on the chart below.
Age Dose
children under 2 years of age ask a doctor
children 2 years to under 6 years of age 2.5 mL once daily. If needed, dose can be increased to a maximum of 5 mL once daily or 2.5 mL every 12 hours. Do not give more than 5 mL in 24 hours.
adults and children 6 years and over 5 mL or 10 mL once daily depending upon severity of symptoms; do not take more than 10 mL in 24 hours.
consumers with liver disease or kidney disease ask a doctor

DO NOT TAKE more than directed. Taking more than directed may cause drowsiness.
DO NOT GIVE this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old.
DO NOT USE if carton is opened or if carton tape or bottle wrap imprinted "SAFETY SEAL®" is broken or missing
IN CASE OF OVERDOSE, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center on 1-800-222-1222 right away. Urgent medical attention is required even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms.

Children’s Zyrtec Dissolve Tabs (cetirizine hydrochloride 10 mg)

  • Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child.
  • Find the right dose on the chart below.
  • Use tablet immediately after opening individual blister
  • Place 1 tablet on tongue; no water needed the tablet melts in your mouth
Age Dose
children under 6 years of age ask a doctor
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. A 5 mg product may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.
consumers with liver disease or kidney disease ask a doctor

DO NOT TAKE more than directed. Taking more than directed may cause drowsiness.
DO NOT GIVE this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old.
DO NOT USE if carton or blister unit is opened or broken.
IN CASE OF OVERDOSE, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center on 1-800-222-1222 right away. Urgent medical attention is required even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms.

 

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer