Oral Antihistamines · Second-generation oral antihistamine
Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Generic Allergy Pills + Higher-Dose Rx Options
Brand names: Zyrtec
Last reviewed June 8, 2026 · Medically reviewed by AllergyCenter
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Buy generic — OTC
Generic Cetirizine 10 mg — 30 tablets
30 tablets (1-month supply)
- Same active ingredient as the brand
- Free shipping (3–5 business days)
- No prescription needed
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For prescription strengths, combination products, or higher doses.
- Up-dosed cetirizine (up to 40 mg/day) for chronic urticaria
- Switch to hydroxyzine, levocetirizine, or another Rx-strength antihistamine
- Refill of a working cetirizine prescription
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Cetirizine is a daily allergy pill that blocks histamine — the chemical your body releases during allergic reactions. It treats nasal allergies, itchy eyes, and hives, and is one of the most widely used antihistamines in the world.
It's available OTC as Zyrtec and as much-cheaper generic cetirizine. For chronic hives that don't respond to the standard 10 mg dose, allergists may prescribe up to four times the daily amount under supervision.
Quick Facts
- Generic name
- Cetirizine hydrochloride
- Brand names
- Zyrtec, Zyrtec-D (with pseudoephedrine)
- Drug class
- Second-generation H1 antihistamine
- Form
- Tablet, chewable, liquid
- OTC or Rx
- OTC at standard doses. Higher-than-OTC doses may require a prescription.
- Typical adult dose
- 10 mg once daily (up to 40 mg/day for chronic urticaria under provider guidance)
- Age range
- 6 months+ (dose by age)
- Onset of action
- 20–60 minutes
TL;DR — At a Glance
- ·Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is a once-daily antihistamine for allergies and hives.
- ·Works within an hour and lasts 24 hours.
- ·Standard adult dose: 10 mg daily. Available OTC as a tablet, chewable, or liquid.
- ·Common side effects: mild drowsiness (more sedating than fexofenadine, less than diphenhydramine), dry mouth.
- ·For chronic urticaria: allergists sometimes go up to 40 mg/day — that requires a prescription review.
Need a higher dose or refill?
For chronic hives or symptoms that aren’t controlled on standard cetirizine, an allergist can prescribe up to 4× the OTC dose or switch you to a stronger antihistamine.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a licensed healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without consulting a qualified provider.