From the FDA Drug Label
Directions Adults and children 6years and overone 10 mg tablet once daily, do not take more than one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. For children 6 years and over, the recommended dosing is one 10 mg tablet once daily, not to exceed one 10 mg tablet in 24 hours. For children under 6 years of age, the label instructs to ask a doctor.
- The dosing for children is as follows:
- Children 6 years and over: 10 mg once daily
- Children under 6 years: consult a doctor 1
From the Research
Cetirizine dosing for children should be 5-10 mg (one to two teaspoons of liquid or one tablet) once daily for children 6 years and older, as this dose has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis with minimal side effects 2.
Key Considerations
- For children 6 months to under 2 years old, the recommended dose is 2.5 mg (half teaspoon of liquid) once daily.
- Children 2 to 5 years old should receive 2.5 mg once or twice daily, not exceeding 5 mg daily.
- Cetirizine works by blocking histamine receptors, reducing allergic reactions without significant drowsiness compared to older antihistamines.
- The liquid formulation is helpful for younger children who cannot swallow tablets.
- Parents should measure liquid doses with the provided dosing cup or syringe for accuracy.
Administration and Safety
- Cetirizine can be given with or without food, and at any time of day, though consistent timing helps maintain steady blood levels.
- If a dose is missed, it should be given when remembered, but not doubled up with the next dose.
- The most recent study on cetirizine use in childhood confirms its safety and efficacy in children older than 6 months old 3.