Allacan Cetirizine Tablets 10mg – 30 Tablets

Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine, which means it is designed to act more selectively on histamine H1 receptors in peripheral tissues such as the nose, eyes, and skin, with significantly less penetration of the blood-brain barrier than first-generation antihistamines like chlorphenamine. This results in a much lower tendency to cause sedation, dry mouth, urinary retention, and other anticholinergic effects at therapeutic doses. Cetirizine also has a longer duration of action, providing 24-hour coverage from a single daily dose, whereas chlorphenamine typically requires dosing every 4 to 6 hours. For most adults who need daytime allergy relief, cetirizine is a more practical and better-tolerated choice.

Cetirizine is less sedating than first-generation antihistamines and most people take it without significant drowsiness. However, some individuals — particularly at the start of treatment — may experience mild fatigue or drowsiness. If this occurs, taking the tablet in the evening rather than the morning can minimise any daytime impact while still providing 24-hour coverage. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants during treatment, as these enhance any sedative effect. Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy after taking cetirizine.

Cetirizine typically begins to provide noticeable relief within one hour of taking the tablet, with peak antihistamine effect reached within one to two hours. For hayfever, starting cetirizine a few days before the pollen season begins — or before a known high-exposure situation — allows consistent H1 receptor blockade to be established before symptomatic histamine release occurs, potentially providing better overall symptom control than starting treatment reactively once symptoms are already established.

Yes. Children aged 6 to 11 may take a half-tablet dose (5mg) once daily under adult supervision. The tablet can be broken cleanly in half. Allacan Cetirizine Tablets are not recommended for children under 6 years of age. For children in this age group with allergic symptoms, consult your GP or pharmacist for appropriate paediatric antihistamine options, which may include a liquid formulation with an age-appropriate dose.

Yes. Cetirizine is suitable for continuous daily use throughout the hayfever season. It can also be used year-round for perennial allergic rhinitis or chronic idiopathic urticaria under appropriate pharmacist or GP guidance. The 30-tablet pack provides a full month's supply at the adult dose, making it convenient for ongoing seasonal use. If you find that cetirizine alone is not providing sufficient symptom control, speak to your pharmacist about adding a topical corticosteroid nasal spray or other complementary treatments to your allergy management plan.

Cetirizine is not generally recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, as there are insufficient robust human data to confirm safety in early pregnancy. Animal studies do not suggest direct teratogenic risk, but caution is appropriate. If you are pregnant and experiencing significant allergy symptoms, consult your GP or midwife who can advise on the safest and most appropriate management for your stage of pregnancy. Similarly, cetirizine passes into breast milk and is not recommended during breastfeeding without medical guidance.

Yes. Cetirizine is indicated for the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria, which is the medical term for persistent or recurring hives without an identifiable trigger. It helps to relieve the itching and reduce the frequency and severity of wheals. If your urticaria is severe, worsening, or associated with swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek urgent medical assessment rather than relying solely on antihistamine treatment, as this may indicate a more serious allergic condition requiring additional management.