Zirtek Allergy Solution - 200ml

What is Zirtek allergy solution?

Zirtek allergy solution is a non-drowsy antihistamine containing the active ingredient cetirizine dihydrochloride.  It helps by reducing symptoms like:

• sneezing
• runny or blocked nose
• itchy or watery eyes

Because Zirtek is a solution, it’s beneficial for people who can’t take tablets, or have issues using nasal sprays and eye drops. It’s suitable for children aged 6 and up, and the medicine is banana flavoured.

What is Zirtek allergy medicine used for?

Zirtek allergy solution is used to relieve symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and perennial rhinitis (year-round allergies like dust or pet allergies).

How does Zirtek allergy solution work?

Zirtek allergy solution works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance your body releases during an allergic reaction.

Histamine is responsible for causing common allergy symptoms. It triggers the inflammatory response to things your body may perceive as a threat such as pollen, dust or pet dander.

How long does Zirtek take to work?

Zirtek usually starts to relieve allergy symptoms within about an hour of taking a dose, helping you feel more comfortable fairly quickly.

How to use Zirtek allergy solution

Always take Zirtek allergy solution exactly as described in the leaflet or as advised by your doctor or pharmacist.

Take Zirtek at the same time each day to help manage allergy symptoms consistently.

Directions for use are relatively simple, though the recommended dose depends on age and individual needs:

• Children aged 6–12 years: 5ml twice daily.
• Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over: 10ml once daily.

To use Zirtek allergy solution:

• Open the bottle and find the supplied measuring spoon.
• Measure your dose carefully using the measuring spoon provided.
• Swallow the solution. It does not need to be mixed with water and can be taken with or without food.
• Rinse the spoon after use and replace the bottle cap securely.

Zirtek allergy solution side effects

As with all medication, using Zirtek allergy solution may cause side effects, though not every gets them.

Common side effects may include:

• sleepiness
• headaches
• nausea
• dizziness
• diarrhoea

To find out more, read the patient information leaflet.

When to seek medical help

Stop taking Zirtek allergy solution and call 999 immediately if you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms include:

• swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
• difficulty breathing or swallowing

When not to use Zirtek allergy solution

Zirtek allergy solution isn’t suitable for everyone, so it’s important to check before using it.

You may not be suitable to use Zirtek allergy solution if any of the following apply to you, so to make sure, tell a pharmacist or doctor first if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to cetirizine or any other medicine
• have kidney failure
• have epilepsy or another health problem that means you’re at risk of seizures or fits
• you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or think you may be pregnant
• you have a condition that makes peeing more difficult

How to order Zirtek allergy solution with Chemist4U

If you need quick relief from allergy symptoms, ordering online with Chemist4U is a simple way to get treatment without the hassle of visiting a pharmacy.

Simply add the product to your basket, check out securely, and your order will be processed and delivered straight to your door.

Your treatment arrives in discreet packaging, so you can manage your symptoms privately, with the added reassurance that you’re buying from a UK‑regulated pharmacy.

Storage information

Store Zirtek allergy solution out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use it after the expiry date on the carton or after three months of opening. If you’re unsure whether your medicine is still safe to use, it’s best to check with a pharmacist.

Alternatives to Zirtek allergy solution

If Zirtek allergy solution isn’t the right fit for you, Chemist4U offers a wide range of alternative allergy treatments depending on your symptoms:

Antihistamine tablets

Tablets work similarly to allergy solutions as they’re both taking orally and so work across the entire body instead of locally. They’re often taken once a day, and there are multiple options with different active ingredients:

• fexofenadine (Allevia, Treathay)
• loratadine (Clarityn)
• cetirizine (Benadryl)

Nasal sprays

If you notice that you mainly get hay fever symptoms in your nose, like inflammation, congestion and sneezing, then nasal sprays may be best as they help relieve symptoms locally.

• beclometasone nasal spray (Beconase)
• fluticasone nasal spray (Flixonase)
• mometasone nasal spray (Clarinaze)

Eye drops

Similarly, if you tend to suffer more from itchy, runny or swollen eyes then taking a local antihistamine like eye drops can help relieve your symptoms.

• olopatadine (Opatanol)
• sodium cromoglicate (Optrex, Opticrom)

Frequently asked questions about Zirtek allergy solution

Is Zirtek the same as Piriton?

No. While both are antihistamines, they contain different active ingredients. Zirtek contains cetirizine, while Piriton contains chlorphenamine, which is more likely to cause drowsiness.

Can you take Zirtek and Piriton together?

No. It’s generally advised avoiding taking both Zirtek and Piriton together as they are both antihistamines and combining them can increase the risk of side effects.

Can I buy Zirtek allergy solution over the counter?

Yes, Zirtek is not a prescription-only medication and so is available over the counter from both community and online pharmacies without a prescription.

Sources

• Who can and cannot take cetirizine (2025). NHS. [Accessed 28 April 2026]