Take cetirizine (Zyrtec) 10mg daily

What to Do

Take one cetirizine 10mg tablet daily, morning or evening. It begins working within 1 hour and lasts 24 hours. Available as tablets, liquid gels, and liquid for children.

Why It Works

Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that blocks H1 receptors with minimal blood-brain barrier penetration. Clinical trials show it is the most potent OTC antihistamine, with the strongest evidence for reducing sneezing, itching, and runny nose. It works faster than loratadine.

Tips

• May cause mild drowsiness in 5-10% of users — take at bedtime if this occurs
• Zyrtec-D adds pseudoephedrine for congestion but raises blood pressure
• Generic store brands are identical and much cheaper
• Safe for ages 6 months+ (liquid form with weight-based dosing)