Cet-10 (Cetrizine) Tablets

What is Cetirizine 10mg? Cetirizine 10mg is a second-generation antihistamine used to relieve a wide range of allergy symptoms quickly and effectively. It works by blocking H1 histamine receptors — preventing histamine, the chemical your immune system releases during an allergic reaction, from triggering symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Unlike older first-generation antihistamines such as chlorphenamine, cetirizine is far less likely to cause drowsiness — making it suitable for daytime use without significantly affecting concentration, alertness, or daily performance. It is one of the most widely used and recommended antihistamines in the world and is listed on the WHO List of Essential Medicines.

What It Treats

• Hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) – sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes caused by pollen
• Year-round allergies (perennial allergic rhinitis) – triggered by dust mites, pet dander, or mould
• Urticaria (hives) – raised, itchy, red welts on the skin
• Allergic conjunctivitis – itchy, red, watery eyes due to allergens
• Eczema-related itching – skin irritation from atopic dermatitis
• Insect bite reactions – localised swelling and itching
• Food allergy symptoms – mild skin and nasal reactions
• Angioedema – swelling under the skin, often around eyes and lips

How It Works When your body encounters an allergen — pollen, dust, pet hair, or food — it triggers the release of histamine from immune cells. Histamine then binds to receptors throughout the body, causing the classic symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Cetirizine works by:

1. Blocking H1 Receptors It selectively occupies H1 histamine receptors in the body, preventing histamine from binding and triggering symptoms — stopping the allergic response before it takes hold.

2. Stabilising Mast Cells It helps reduce the release of other inflammatory mediators from mast cells — providing broader anti-allergic activity beyond just histamine blockade.

3. Minimal Brain Penetration Unlike older antihistamines, cetirizine has low penetration into the brain — which is why it causes significantly less sedation while remaining highly effective peripherally.

The effect begins within 20 to 60 minutes of taking the tablet and lasts for a full 24 hours — providing all-day protection from a single dose.

Dosage Guide

Cetirizine can be taken with or without food. Take it at the same time each day for consistent allergy control. The tablet can be swallowed whole with water.

Why Choose Cetirizine 10mg?

• Fast-acting – begins working within 20 to 60 minutes
• 24-hour protection – one tablet, all-day relief
• Non-drowsy formula – minimal sedation at standard doses
• Broad spectrum – treats nasal, skin, and eye allergy symptoms
• Second-generation antihistamine – superior tolerability over older antihistamines
• WHO Essential Medicine – globally trusted and clinically validated
• Suitable for children from age 2 (syrup form) and age 6+ (tablet)
• Affordable and widely available – excellent value allergy relief
• Can be used seasonally or year-round – flexible for all allergy types

Who Should Avoid Cetirizine 10mg?

• Patients with known allergy to cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or levocetirizine
• Patients with end-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis
• Children under 2 years without medical supervision
• Pregnant women in the first trimester without doctor's guidance
• Breastfeeding mothers without medical advice

Possible Side Effects Cetirizine is very well tolerated by most people. Side effects are generally mild.

Common:

• Drowsiness or fatigue (in some individuals)
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea or stomach discomfort

Less Common:

• Agitation or restlessness (more common in children)
• Skin rash
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty urinating

Rare but Serious — Seek Immediate Medical Help:

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue; difficulty breathing
• Severe skin reactions — blistering or peeling
• Irregular heartbeat (very rare at standard doses)
• Seizures (extremely rare)

Drug Interactions Cetirizine has relatively few drug interactions but inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking:

• Alcohol or CNS depressants – increased risk of sedation and impaired coordination
• Sedatives, sleeping tablets, or anxiolytics – additive drowsiness
• Theophylline – may slightly reduce the clearance of cetirizine
• Ritonavir (HIV medication) – may increase cetirizine blood levels
• Anticholinergic drugs – may have additive effects including dry mouth and urinary retention
• Other antihistamines – avoid combining; no additional benefit and increased risk of side effects

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
• Keep in the original blister pack until ready to use