Cetirizine has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.

In these studies, the most common side effects of cetirizine in adults included:

Drowsiness -- in up to 13.7 percent of people
Fatigue -- up to 5.9 percent
Dry mouth -- up to 5 percent (see Zyrtec and Dry Mouth)
Sore throat -- up to 2 percent
Dizziness -- up to 2 percent.

In children, the most common side effects included:

Headaches -- in up to 14 percent of children
Sore throat -- up to 6.2 percent
Abdominal pain (stomach pain) -- up to 5.6 percent
Cough -- up to 4.4 percent
Drowsiness -- up to 4.2 percent
Nosebleeds -- up to 3.7 percent
Diarrhea -- up to 3.1 percent.

Less Common Cetirizine Side Effects

Rare cetirizine side effects occur in less than 2 percent of people taking the drug. Because these side effects are so uncommon, it is difficult to tell whether they are caused by cetirizine or something else.

These less common side effects include but are not limited to:

Loss of appetite
Flushing
Migraines
A spinning sensation (vertigo)
Gas
Hemorrhoids
Bladder infection (urinary tract infection or UTI)
Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
Ear infections
Dehydration
Arthritis
Muscle pain
Decreased sex drive (see Zyrtec Effects on Libido)
Acne
Hair loss
Weight gain (see Zyrtec and Weight Gain).

Cetirizine Side Effects Article Continues on Next Page >

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List of references (click here)

Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD

Cetirizine

What Is Cetirizine Used For?

Cetirizine Side Effects

Cetirizine Dosage

Drug Interactions With Cetirizine

Precautions and Warnings With Cetirizine

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