TEASPNZ Dosing Made by Hov

How to dose Claritin and Zyrtec in Children: An age-based off-label dosing guide*

Claritin (loratadine) &
Zyrtec (cetirizine) are used for allergies.


• Claritin & Zyrtec are 3rd generation antihistamine medications used for relieving symptoms due to upper respiratory allergies such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose and throat, and may help coughs due to post-nasal drainage.

• Chewable tablets can be crushed and mixed into apple sauce or yogurt.

• Please read the labels on the box before giving your child any medicine.

• Claritin & Zyrtec can also be helpful to treat itching due to any cause, especially with rashes due to allergy, viruses (chicken pox), or insect bites and stings.

• Claritin & Zyrtec are non-drowsy.

• Do not give Claritin or Zyrtec to a child under 6 months of age without contacting your health provider first.

*Adapted from The Harriet Lane Handbook, 19th ed.


© 2013-2016 Johnny El Chemmas, PharmD