Antihistamine (anti-allergy)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Cetirizine is an antihistamine that works by blocking a natural substance called histamine in your body, which is responsible for causing allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
Binds selectively to peripheral H1-histamine receptors, blocking histamine-mediated allergic responses and reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and pruritus without significant central nervous system penetration.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
Buy from a reputable pharmacy and avoid roadside sellers or open market drugs as you cannot be sure of the quality or expiry date. If you feel very drowsy after taking it, do not drive or operate heavy machinery. Do not combine cetirizine with other allergy medicines unless your pharmacist or doctor says it is okay.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking cetirizine as it can make drowsiness much worse. Be careful if you are also taking sleeping pills or other medicines that make you drowsy, as the combined effect can be very strong. If you are taking theophylline (used for asthma), let your doctor or pharmacist know as it may affect how cetirizine works in your body.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Cetirizine with your other drugs?
Cetirizine is not confirmed safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so consult your doctor before using it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the pack tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.