From the Research
The recommended cetirizine dose for a 3-year-old child is 2.5 mg once daily, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 1. This can be given as 2.5 mL of the liquid formulation (typically 5 mg/5 mL) or half of a 5 mg tablet. Administer the dose at the same time each day, preferably in the evening. The medication can be given with or without food. If using the liquid form, use the measuring device provided with the medication for accurate dosing. Cetirizine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. It's generally safe and effective for children this age, with minimal side effects. However, it may cause mild drowsiness in some children. Some key points to consider when administering cetirizine to a 3-year-old child include:
- The importance of accurate dosing, as higher doses may increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefit 2.
- The potential for cetirizine to be used in children with perennial allergic rhinitis, as supported by a study published in 1994 2.
- The need for pediatricians to consider the population pharmacokinetics of levocetirizine, the pharmacologically active enantiomer of cetirizine, in very young children 3. Always consult with a pediatrician before starting any new medication. If symptoms persist or worsen after a few days of treatment, seek medical advice. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as higher doses may increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefit. It is also important to note that the safety and efficacy of cetirizine in infants as young as 6 months have been studied, and the results suggest that cetirizine is safe and well-tolerated in this age group 4.