What is the brand name for Cetirizine?
The brand name for Cetirizine is Zyrtec.
PTCE Top 200 · #55
Cetirizine
Zyrtec
Cetirizine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Zyrtec. It is an antihistamine (2nd generation) used to treat allergies. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Cetirizine ranks #55 and is one of the most frequently tested respiratory/allergy medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Cetirizine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Zyrtec |
| Drug class | Antihistamine (2nd generation) |
| Class group | Respiratory/Allergy |
| Common use | allergies |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Over-the-counter (OTC) |
What is Cetirizine used for?
• Allergic rhinitis symptoms (seasonal/perennial). • Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
What drug class is Cetirizine?
Cetirizine is an Antihistamine (2nd generation) in the Respiratory/Allergy group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Cetirizine
- arrow_rightSomnolence (usually mild)
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightFatigue
- arrow_rightHeadache
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAlcohol or other CNS depressants may ↑ sedation
- arrow_rightTheophylline may ↓ cetirizine clearance (small effect)
Is Cetirizine a controlled substance?
No. Cetirizine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Cetirizine (PTCE mnemonic)
ZYRtec ZAPs allergies — cetiri-ZINE is 2nd-gen H1 (less sedating than 1st-gen, but sleepier than loratadine). Renal dose-adjust.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Cetirizine (Zyrtec) is a less-sedating (2nd-generation) antihistamine — contrast with sedating 1st-gen ones like diphenhydramine.
Cetirizine FAQ
What is Cetirizine used for?
Cetirizine is used to treat allergies. • Allergic rhinitis symptoms (seasonal/perennial). • Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
What drug class is Cetirizine?
Cetirizine is an Antihistamine (2nd generation) (Respiratory/Allergy group).
Is Cetirizine a controlled substance?
No. Cetirizine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Respiratory/Allergy group
Drill Cetirizine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).