Cetirizine HCL Oral Suspension (Anhydrous)
Cetirizine HCL is a compounded formulation containing Cetirizine HCL, prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
How to Give Anhydrous Oral Suspension
Oral Suspension (Anhydrous) is a liquid medication that does not contain water in its base. This might be an oil-based or other special base to help stabilize the medicine. It will look like a regular liquid medication, but often needs a good shake because the drug can settle. Here's how to give it:
- Shake well each time to mix the medication (5-10 seconds).
- Measure the dose using the syringe/dropper provided or one recommended by your vet. Insert the top of the oral syringe into the bottle adapter. Turn the bottle upside down and pull the plunger until the medicine reaches the volume required
- Hold your pet steady: a towel or helper can assist with squirmy pets.
- Administer the dose slowly into the side of the mouth. Allow small pauses if needed for swallowing.
- Raise the head slightly to help the medication go down and clean any spills with a little water or tissue.
- Praise your pet and offer a treat or water (unless advised against feeding right after).
- Clean the syringe with water immediately after use. Store the bottle as directed, out of sunlight.
- Consistency is key: Shake each time, measure accurately, and contact your vet if any issues arise.
The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.
Cetirizine utilizes a second-generation antihistamine strategy to manage allergic symptoms. It is a medication frequently considered for pets presented with skin itching or environmental allergies.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
Commonly observed effects following the administration of cetirizine include mild sedation in some patients, though this is less frequent than with other prescriptions. Some pets may exhibit localized digestive changes, such as vomiting, salivation or a decrease in appetite. In rare instances, behavioral shifts including restlessness or hyperactivity have been noted. Owners should monitor their pet for any unusual changes in energy levels or bowel habits and contact their veterinarian promptly with any concerns.
This medication is typically used with extra caution or avoided in patients with known severe renal or hepatic impairment, as these organs are primary sites for the clearance of the medication from the system. It is also carefully evaluated in breeding, pregnant or lactating animals, as safety in these specific categories is determined on a case-by-case basis by a veterinarian. Significant interactions can occur if cetirizine is administered concurrently with other central nervous system depressants, as the combination may enhance the sedative influence. Your veterinarian is the right person to provide guidance on the necessary duration of use and the most commonly considered monitoring schedule to ensure the management approach remains suitable for your pet's comfort.
Yes. Cetirizine hydrochloride is a prescription medication and can only be dispensed by a licensed pharmacy upon receipt of a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab verifies all veterinarian-client-patient relationships before any medication is prepared or shipped to your home.
Yes. While cetirizine is available in human-strength commercial tablets, Mixlab specializes in compounding the active ingredient into customized strengths and flavored dosage forms—such as flavored oral liquids or chewable may be considered in cases of—to suit the specific needs of dogs and cats. The decision between a commercial and compounded product rests with the prescribing veterinarian.
Zyrtec is a common brand name for the active medication cetirizine hydrochloride. While the active ingredient is the same, your veterinarian will determine the most appropriate formulation for your pet, as some human products may contain additional ingredients that are not suitable for animals.
While cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine intended to be less sedating than older medications, some individual pets may still experience a degree of drowsiness. You should monitor your pet's energy levels and coordination after starting the medication and report any significant lethargy to your veterinarian.
