Zyrtec Hives: Package Insert / Prescribing Info
Package insert / product label
Generic name: cetirizine hydrochloride
Dosage form: oral solution
Drug class: Antihistamines
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 10, 2025.
Indications and Usage for Zyrtec Hives
reduces hives and relieves itching due to hives (urticaria). This product will not prevent hives or an allergic skin reaction from occurring.
Warnings
Severe Allergy Warning
Severe Allergy Warning: Get emergency help
immediately if you have hives along with any of the
following symptoms:
■ trouble swallowing
■ dizziness or loss of consciousness
■ swelling of tongue
■ swelling in or around mouth
■ trouble speaking
■ drooling
■ wheezing or problems breathing
These symptoms may be signs of anaphylactic shock.
This condition can be life threatening if not treated by a health professional
immediately. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock may occur when hives first appear or up to a few hours later.
Not a Substitute for Epinephrine. If your doctor has prescribed an epinephrine injector for anaphylaxis or severe allergy symptoms that could occur with your hives, never use this product as a substitute for the epinephrine injector. If you have been prescribed an epinephrine injector, you should carry it with you at all times.
Do not use
■ to
prevent hives from any known cause such as:
■ foods
■ insect stings
■ medicines
■ latex or rubber gloves
because this product will not stop hives from occurring. Avoiding the cause of your hives is the only
way to prevent them. Hives can sometimes be serious. If you do not know the cause of your hives,
see your doctor for a medical exam. Your doctor may be able to help you find a cause.
■ if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients or to an antihistamine containing hydroxyzine.
Ask a doctor before use if you have
■ liver or kidney disease. Your doctor should determine if you need a different dose.
■ hives that are an unusual color, look bruised or blistered
■ hives that do not itch
When using this product
■ drowsiness may occur
■ avoid alcoholic drinks
■ alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness
■ be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery
Stop use and ask a doctor if
■ an allergic reaction to this product occurs. Seek medical help right away.
■ symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment
■ the hives have lasted more than 6 weeks
Zyrtec Hives Dosage and Administration
■ use only with enclosed dosing cup
■ find right dose on chart below
■ mL = milliliter
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. |
adults 65 years and over |
5 mL once daily; do not take more than 5 mL in 24 hours. |
children under 6 years of age | ask a doctor |
consumers with liver or kidney disease | ask a doctor |
Other information
■ store between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F)
■ do not use if carton is opened or if bottle wrap imprinted with “Sealed For Your Safety” is broken or missing
ZYRTEC HIVES
cetirizine hydrochloride solution |
||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||
|
Labeler - Kenvue Brands LLC (118772437) |
Frequently asked questions
- Should cetirizine be taken at bedtime or upon awakening?
- Can you take antihistamines when pregnant?
- Is Generic Zyrtec Available?
More about Zyrtec Hives (cetirizine)
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Latest FDA alerts (1)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: antihistamines
- Breastfeeding
Professional resources
Other brands
Aller-Tec, All Day Allergy, Quzyttir, All Day Allergy Children's, Aller-Tec Children's