Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution - 120ml

Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution - 120ml

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Relieves hay fever, hives and allergic rhinitis in children
  • ✔️ Sugar-free formula suitable for children aged 2 to 12 years
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy cetirizine causes less sedation than older antihistamines
  • ✔️ Starts working within approximately one hour of each dose
  • ✔️ Accurate liquid dosing with measuring device included

Price Checker

Regular price £6.99
Sale price £6.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

Is Benadryl Children's Oral Solution a Good Children's Antihistamine Liquid?

 

When your child is sneezing, rubbing their eyes, or breaking out in hives, you want something that works — and works safely. Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution is a licensed, sugar-free antihistamine designed specifically for children aged 2 years and over. Each 120ml bottle contains cetirizine hydrochloride at a concentration of 1mg per ml, making it straightforward to measure an accurate dose. You can find it alongside other allergy and hay fever treatments at Cured Pharmacy, available without a prescription.

Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine, which means it's far less likely to cause sedation than older antihistamines like chlorphenamine. That matters when your child still needs to concentrate at school or get a good night's sleep. The solution is sugar-free and comes with a measuring device, so dosing is as simple as it can be.

 

How Does Benadryl Children's Oral Solution Work?

 

Allergic reactions happen when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance — pollen, pet dander, dust mites — and releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine then binds to H1 receptors throughout the body, triggering the familiar cascade of symptoms: sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and a runny nose. Cetirizine works by selectively blocking those H1 receptors, stopping histamine from doing its job.

  • Cetirizine is absorbed quickly from the gut after an oral dose.
  • It reaches peak plasma concentration within approximately one hour.
  • Because it crosses the blood-brain barrier only minimally, it causes less drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines.
  • A single dose provides relief for up to 24 hours, though the children's dosing schedule uses twice-daily administration in younger age groups.

 

Who Should Use Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

 

This product is suitable for children who experience allergic symptoms and need a liquid formulation — either because they cannot swallow tablets or because an accurate, weight-appropriate dose is easier to achieve with a measured liquid. It is licensed for children aged 2 to 12 years, though children aged 6 and over who can swallow tablets may also be offered cetirizine in tablet form.

  • Children aged 2–12 years with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
  • Children with perennial allergic rhinitis triggered by year-round allergens such as dust mites or pet hair.
  • Children experiencing urticaria (hives) or allergic skin reactions.
  • Children who require a sugar-free formulation due to dietary requirements or dental health concerns.

It is not suitable for children under 2 years of age. If your child has kidney or liver problems, speak to your GP or pharmacist before use, as dose adjustment may be needed.

 

How Does Benadryl Children's Solution Compare to Other Children's Allergy Medicines?

 

Feature Benadryl Children's 1mg/ml Solution Piriton Syrup (Chlorphenamine 2mg/5ml)
Active ingredient Cetirizine hydrochloride Chlorphenamine maleate
Generation of antihistamine Second-generation (non-drowsy) First-generation (may cause drowsiness)
Minimum age 2 years 1 year (under medical supervision)
Sugar-free Yes No

 

How Should You Store Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

 

This children's antihistamine liquid should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. As with all medicines, store it out of the reach and sight of children — ideally in a locked medicine cabinet. If you're also managing other health products for your child, our baby and toddler range includes a variety of age-appropriate health essentials.

Do not use the solution after the expiry date printed on the label. Once opened, check the product leaflet for any specific in-use shelf-life guidance. If the solution looks discoloured or contains particles, do not use it.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution 120ml specifications
Treatment category Allergic rhinitis, urticaria
Mechanism of action Selective H1 histamine receptor antagonist
Effective for Hay fever, hives, allergic skin reactions
Suitable for Children aged 2–12 years
Active ingredient Cetirizine hydrochloride 1mg/ml
Pack size 120ml
Strength 1mg/ml
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class Second-generation antihistamine
Preparation Oral solution
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution 120ml

 

What Is Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution and What Is It Used For?

 

Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution contains cetirizine hydrochloride, a second-generation antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conditions in children aged 2 to 12 years. It is indicated for seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), perennial allergic rhinitis, and urticaria (hives). The NHS recognises cetirizine as one of the preferred non-drowsy antihistamines for managing these conditions. The sugar-free liquid formulation makes it suitable for children who cannot swallow tablets and for those with dietary restrictions.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

 

Before giving this medicine to your child, read the following carefully. There are certain situations where this product should not be used, or where extra caution is needed.

Do not use if your child:

  • Is under 2 years of age.
  • Is allergic to cetirizine hydrochloride, hydroxyzine, or any other ingredient in the solution.
  • Has severe kidney disease (end-stage renal impairment).

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist first if your child:

  • Has any degree of kidney or liver impairment — dose adjustment may be required.
  • Has epilepsy or a history of seizures.
  • Is due to have allergy skin-prick testing — antihistamines should be stopped several days beforehand.

Known drug interactions:

  • CNS depressants (including sedatives and some prescription medicines) — may increase the risk of drowsiness.
  • Alcohol — should be avoided, as it may enhance any sedative effect.
  • Theophylline — may slightly reduce the clearance of cetirizine at high doses.

 

How Should You Use Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

 

Always follow the dosage instructions on the label or as directed by your pharmacist. Use the measuring device provided — never use a household spoon, as this can lead to inaccurate dosing.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use if instructed on the label.
  2. Use the oral syringe or measuring cup provided to draw up the correct dose.
  3. Give the dose directly into your child's mouth or mix with a small amount of water if needed.
  4. Replace the cap securely after each use.
  5. Record the time of each dose to avoid accidental double-dosing.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Daily Dose
2–6 years 2.5ml (2.5mg) Twice daily 5ml (5mg)
6–12 years 5ml (5mg) Twice daily 10ml (10mg)

If your child also experiences cold or flu symptoms alongside their allergy, you may find our cold and flu range helpful for managing those separately.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

 

Like all medicines, cetirizine can cause side effects, although not every child will experience them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 children):

  • Drowsiness or fatigue
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Stomach pain or nausea

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 children):

  • Agitation or restlessness (particularly in younger children)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Difficulty passing urine

Stop giving the medicine and seek immediate medical attention if your child develops signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash. These reactions are rare but require urgent assessment.

 

How Should You Store Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the medicine's effectiveness and keeps your child safe. If you're organising a home medicine cabinet, our first aid collection has useful products to keep alongside it.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
  • Store out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label.
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacy.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution online in the UK?

You can buy Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £6.99 per 120ml bottle. No prescription is needed, as it is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine. It is also available from some high street pharmacies and supermarkets across the UK.

How does Benadryl Children's Oral Solution work in the body?

The active ingredient, cetirizine hydrochloride, selectively blocks H1 histamine receptors throughout the body. When histamine is prevented from binding to these receptors, the typical allergy symptoms — sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes — are significantly reduced. Because cetirizine crosses the blood-brain barrier only minimally, it is far less likely to cause drowsiness than older antihistamines.

What age can children take Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

This product is licensed for children aged 2 years and over, up to 12 years of age. It must not be given to children under 2 years old. For children aged 12 and over, adult cetirizine formulations at the standard 10mg dose are generally more appropriate — speak to a pharmacist for guidance.

What is the correct dose of Benadryl Children's 1mg/ml for my child?

Children aged 2 to 6 years should receive 2.5ml (2.5mg) twice daily, giving a maximum daily dose of 5mg. Children aged 6 to 12 years should receive 5ml (5mg) twice daily, up to a maximum of 10mg per day. Always use the measuring device supplied with the bottle and never exceed the stated dose.

Does Benadryl Children's Oral Solution cause drowsiness?

Cetirizine is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine, meaning it is much less sedating than first-generation antihistamines such as chlorphenamine. However, a small number of children may still experience mild drowsiness, particularly at the start of treatment. If your child seems unusually sleepy, avoid activities that require alertness and speak to your pharmacist.

How do I use Benadryl Children's Oral Solution step by step?

Use the oral syringe or measuring cup provided to draw up the correct dose for your child's age group. Give the dose directly into your child's mouth, or mix it with a small amount of water if preferred. Replace the cap tightly after each use and record the time of each dose to avoid accidental double-dosing.

What is the best time to give Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

There is no strict requirement to give cetirizine at a specific time of day, but establishing a consistent routine — such as morning and evening with meals — helps ensure doses are not missed. If hay fever symptoms are worse in the morning, giving the first dose the evening before can help provide overnight coverage. Consistency matters more than the exact time.

Can I give Benadryl Children's Solution alongside other medicines?

You should always speak to a pharmacist before combining this product with other medicines. Cetirizine may interact with sedatives, CNS depressants, and high-dose theophylline. If your child is taking any prescription medicines, check with your GP or pharmacist before starting this antihistamine.

What should I do if I accidentally give my child too much?

If you think your child has received more than the recommended dose, contact NHS 111 immediately or take them to your nearest A&E department. Bring the bottle and packaging with you so medical staff can see exactly what was taken and how much. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking advice.

What happens if I miss a dose of Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Never give a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of side effects.

Who is eligible to use Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

This product is suitable for children aged 2 to 12 years who experience allergic rhinitis or urticaria. It is not suitable for children under 2 years, or for those with severe kidney disease. Children with liver or kidney impairment should only use it under medical supervision, as dose adjustment may be necessary.

What are the alternatives to Benadryl Children's Oral Solution?

The main alternative children's antihistamine liquid available in the UK is Piriton Syrup, which contains chlorphenamine — a first-generation antihistamine that is more likely to cause drowsiness. Loratadine syrup is another non-drowsy option sometimes used in children. You can explore the full range of allergy and hay fever treatments at Cured Pharmacy to compare options.

How long can my child use Benadryl Children's Oral Solution for?

For seasonal hay fever, the solution can be used throughout the allergy season, which typically runs from late March to September in the UK. For perennial allergic rhinitis or chronic urticaria, longer-term use may be appropriate under the guidance of a GP. If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks without improvement, seek medical advice.

Is Benadryl Children's Oral Solution sugar-free?

Yes, Benadryl Allergy Children's 1mg/ml Oral Solution is sugar-free, making it suitable for children with dietary restrictions or those whose dentist has advised avoiding sugar-containing medicines. It is also free from gluten, though always check the full ingredient list on the packaging if your child has specific allergies or intolerances.

What are the latest findings on cetirizine use in children?

Cetirizine has been used in children for several decades and has a well-established safety and efficacy profile, supported by extensive clinical evidence. Current NHS and NICE guidance continues to recommend second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine as first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis in children. If you have concerns about long-term use, our ear, nose and throat range includes additional products that may complement allergy management.

How Should You Use Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

Always read the label carefully before giving this medicine to your child. Use only the measuring device provided with the bottle — a household teaspoon is not accurate enough and could result in your child receiving the wrong dose. If you are unsure about anything, ask your pharmacist before use.

Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

The dose depends on your child's age. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose for your child's age group. If your child has kidney or liver problems, speak to your GP before use, as a lower dose may be required.

When Is the Best Time to Use Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

There is no single "best" time, but building a consistent routine makes it easier to remember doses and reduces the risk of missing one. Many parents find that giving the morning dose with breakfast and the evening dose at bedtime works well. If your child's hay fever symptoms are particularly bad in the morning, giving the evening dose slightly earlier may help ensure the medicine is active overnight and into the following morning.

The solution can be taken with or without food, so there is no need to time it around meals specifically. What matters most is keeping the interval between doses as consistent as possible — roughly 10 to 12 hours apart for twice-daily dosing.

How Long Can You Use Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution For?

For seasonal hay fever, you can use this solution throughout the pollen season, which typically runs from late March to September in the UK, depending on which pollens trigger your child's symptoms. For year-round allergies such as dust mite or pet dander allergy, longer-term use may be appropriate, but it is worth reviewing this with your GP periodically.

If your child's symptoms do not improve after a few weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the medicine and seek medical advice. This product is not intended for use in children under 2 years of age under any circumstances.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

How Should You Use Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

Always read the label carefully before giving this medicine to your child. Use only the measuring device provided with the bottle — a household teaspoon is not accurate enough and could result in your child receiving the wrong dose. If you are unsure about anything, ask your pharmacist before use.

Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

The dose depends on your child's age. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose for your child's age group. If your child has kidney or liver problems, speak to your GP before use, as a lower dose may be required.

When Is the Best Time to Use Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

There is no single "best" time, but building a consistent routine makes it easier to remember doses and reduces the risk of missing one. Many parents find that giving the morning dose with breakfast and the evening dose at bedtime works well. If your child's hay fever symptoms are particularly bad in the morning, giving the evening dose slightly earlier may help ensure the medicine is active overnight and into the following morning.

The solution can be taken with or without food, so there is no need to time it around meals specifically. What matters most is keeping the interval between doses as consistent as possible — roughly 10 to 12 hours apart for twice-daily dosing.

How Long Can You Use Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution For?

For seasonal hay fever, you can use this solution throughout the pollen season, which typically runs from late March to September in the UK, depending on which pollens trigger your child's symptoms. For year-round allergies such as dust mite or pet dander allergy, longer-term use may be appropriate, but it is worth reviewing this with your GP periodically.

If your child's symptoms do not improve after a few weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the medicine and seek medical advice. This product is not intended for use in children under 2 years of age under any circumstances.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

Most children tolerate cetirizine well, and side effects are generally mild when they do occur. The most frequently reported ones tend to appear at the start of treatment and often settle as the body adjusts to the medicine.

  • Drowsiness or fatigue
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Stomach pain or nausea

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

Less common side effects affect a smaller proportion of children and are not always directly caused by the medicine. If any of the following persist or concern you, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Agitation or restlessness, particularly in younger children
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Palpitations (awareness of the heartbeat)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop giving the medicine straight away and call 999 or go to A&E if your child develops any of the following signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Sudden widespread skin rash, hives, or flushing
  • Collapse or loss of consciousness

Seizures have been reported very rarely with cetirizine. If your child has a history of epilepsy, discuss this with your GP before starting treatment.

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as drowsiness or a headache, these often resolve without any action needed. Make sure your child is well hydrated and resting comfortably. If drowsiness is a concern, avoid giving the dose before school or activities requiring concentration, and discuss timing with your pharmacist.

For any side effect that is persistent, worsening, or causing distress, stop the medicine and contact your GP or pharmacist. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Benadryl Allergy Children's Oral Solution Interact With Other Medicines?

Cetirizine has relatively few clinically significant drug interactions, but some combinations warrant caution. CNS depressants — including certain prescription sedatives, sleep medicines, and some anticonvulsants — may increase the risk of drowsiness when taken alongside cetirizine. Alcohol should be avoided, though this is not relevant for the paediatric age group this product is intended for. High-dose theophylline has been shown in studies to slightly reduce the clearance of cetirizine, potentially increasing its effects. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines your child is currently taking before starting this product.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery