Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Piriteze Tablets

Piriteze Tablets

  • 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 symptoms effectively
  • ✔️ Once-daily 10mg cetirizine dose lasts up to 24 hours
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula suitable for daytime use
  • ✔️ Works within one hour of taking a single tablet
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged six and over

Price Checker

Regular price £8.99
Sale price £8.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Are Piriteze Cetirizine Tablets Used For?

 

If sneezing fits, itchy eyes, or a constantly runny nose are making your day miserable, you are not alone. Hay fever affects around 1 in 5 people in the UK at some point in their lives, and allergic reactions to dust, pet dander, and mould can strike year-round. Cetirizine tablets — sold under the brand name Piriteze — offer once-daily relief from these symptoms without the heavy sedation associated with older antihistamines. You can browse our full range of allergy and hay fever treatments if you want to compare your options before buying.

Piriteze Tablets contain cetirizine hydrochloride 10mg as the active ingredient. They are licensed in the UK as an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine, meaning no prescription is needed for adults and children aged 6 and over. Each tablet is film-coated and taken orally, making them straightforward to use on a daily basis during allergy season — or whenever your symptoms flare up.

 

How Do Piriteze Tablets Work to Relieve Allergy Symptoms?

 

Piriteze works by targeting the root cause of your allergy symptoms rather than just masking them. When your immune system encounters an allergen — pollen, pet hair, dust mites — it releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine then binds to H1 receptors throughout your body, triggering the familiar cascade of sneezing, itching, watering eyes, and nasal congestion.

  • Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine, meaning it selectively blocks peripheral H1 receptors.
  • It has a lower tendency to cross the blood-brain barrier compared to first-generation antihistamines like chlorphenamine.
  • This selective action means it relieves symptoms with a much reduced risk of sedation.
  • The effect begins within one hour of taking a tablet and lasts for up to 24 hours.

 

Who Is Piriteze Suitable For?

 

Piriteze is a versatile antihistamine suitable for a wide range of people dealing with allergic conditions. It is particularly useful if you need symptom relief that does not interfere significantly with your ability to drive or concentrate at work. That said, it is not right for everyone, so it is worth checking the criteria below.

  • Adults and children aged 6 years and over
  • People with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
  • People with perennial (year-round) allergic rhinitis caused by dust mites or pet dander
  • People experiencing urticaria (hives) or itchy skin rashes of allergic origin

It is not recommended for children under 6, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice, or people with severe renal impairment. Always read the label carefully.

 

How Do Piriteze Tablets Compare to Other Antihistamines?

 

Feature Piriteze (Cetirizine 10mg) Clarityn (Loratadine 10mg)
Active ingredient Cetirizine hydrochloride Loratadine
Dosing frequency Once daily Once daily
Sedation risk Low (may cause mild drowsiness in some) Very low
Onset of action Within 1 hour Within 1–3 hours
Suitable age 6 years and over 2 years and over (syrup)

 

Is Piriteze Safe to Store at Home and Use Long Term?

 

Piriteze Tablets should be stored below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Do not use them after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you are managing ongoing allergic conditions such as perennial rhinitis, cetirizine tablets can be used continuously under pharmacist or GP guidance — though it is always worth reviewing your treatment periodically. If you also suffer from eye-related allergy symptoms, our eye care range includes antihistamine eye drops that can complement oral treatment.

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.

Piriteze Tablets specifications
Treatment category Allergy / Antihistamine
Active ingredient Cetirizine hydrochloride 10mg
Mechanism of action Selective peripheral H1 receptor antagonist
Effective for Hay fever, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, itchy skin
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 years and over
Strengths 10mg
UK classification General Sale List (GSL) / Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Second-generation antihistamine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Piriteze Tablets

 

What Are Piriteze Tablets and What Are They Used For?

 

Piriteze Tablets are an over-the-counter antihistamine medicine containing cetirizine hydrochloride 10mg. They are used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conditions, including seasonal hay fever (allergic rhinitis), year-round allergic rhinitis caused by indoor allergens, and skin reactions such as urticaria (hives) and itching. Cetirizine tablets work by blocking histamine — the chemical your immune system releases when it encounters an allergen — thereby reducing sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, and skin irritation.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Piriteze Tablets?

 

Before taking Piriteze, it is important to check whether this medicine is appropriate for you. There are certain situations where you should not take it, and others where extra caution is needed.

Do not take Piriteze Tablets if you:

  • Are allergic to cetirizine hydrochloride, hydroxyzine, or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • Have severe kidney (renal) failure
  • Are under 6 years of age

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Piriteze if you:

  • Have moderate kidney impairment (your dose may need to be reduced)
  • Have epilepsy or a history of seizures
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have difficulty passing urine (e.g. due to spinal cord problems or prostate enlargement)

Known drug interactions:

  • Alcohol — may increase the risk of drowsiness; avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine
  • Other CNS depressants (e.g. sedatives, sleeping tablets) — combined use may increase sedation
  • Other antihistamines — do not take alongside other antihistamine-containing products
  • Theophylline — may slightly reduce the clearance of cetirizine at high doses

 

How Should You Take Piriteze Tablets?

 

Always take Piriteze exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Remove one tablet from the blister pack.
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
  3. You can take it with or without food — it makes no difference to how well it works.
  4. Take it once daily, at roughly the same time each day for consistent symptom control.
  5. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Age Group Dose Frequency
Adults and children aged 12+ 10mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Children aged 6–11 years 5mg (half a tablet) Once daily
Children under 6 years Not recommended
Adults with moderate renal impairment 5mg (half a tablet) Once daily — seek medical advice

If you are managing allergy symptoms alongside other conditions, you might also find it helpful to explore our ear, nose and throat range for nasal sprays and decongestants that can work alongside antihistamines.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Piriteze Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, Piriteze can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own.

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

  • Drowsiness or fatigue
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, stomach pain)

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

  • Agitation or restlessness
  • Paraesthesia (tingling or pins and needles)
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Skin rash or itching

Stop taking Piriteze and seek immediate medical attention if you experience 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 care.

 

How Should You Store Piriteze Tablets?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct sunlight and heat
  • Keep in the original packaging until use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

If you are looking for additional support during allergy season, our cold and flu range includes products that can help manage overlapping symptoms such as nasal congestion and sore throat.

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 Piriteze Tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Piriteze Tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a UK GPhC-registered online pharmacy, without a prescription. They are available as an over-the-counter medicine for adults and children aged 6 and over. Simply add them to your basket and choose your preferred delivery option at checkout.

How do Piriteze Tablets work in the body?

Piriteze Tablets contain cetirizine hydrochloride, a second-generation antihistamine that selectively blocks H1 histamine receptors in the body. When you encounter an allergen such as pollen or pet dander, your immune system releases histamine — cetirizine prevents histamine from binding to its receptors, stopping the allergic response before symptoms take hold. The effect begins within approximately one hour and lasts for up to 24 hours.

How do I take Piriteze Tablets step by step?

Adults and children aged 12 and over should take one 10mg tablet once daily, swallowed whole with a glass of water. Children aged 6 to 11 years should take half a tablet (5mg) once daily. The tablet can be taken with or without food, and you should try to take it at the same time each day for consistent symptom control.

What is the best time of day to take Piriteze Tablets?

Piriteze can be taken at any time of day that suits your routine, as it provides 24-hour symptom relief from a single dose. If you find it causes mild drowsiness, taking it in the evening before bed may be more convenient. Consistency matters more than timing — try to take it at the same time each day.

What are the side effects of Piriteze Tablets and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects include drowsiness, headache, dry mouth, and dizziness, though most people tolerate cetirizine tablets well. If drowsiness is a problem, try taking your tablet in the evening rather than the morning. If side effects persist or concern you, speak to your pharmacist or GP — they can advise whether a different antihistamine might suit you better.

Who is eligible to take Piriteze Tablets?

Piriteze Tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over who are experiencing hay fever, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, or other allergic skin reactions. They are not suitable for children under 6, people with severe kidney failure, or those with a known allergy to cetirizine or hydroxyzine. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before use. You can explore our full allergy and hay fever range to find the most suitable product for your needs.

Can I take Piriteze Tablets if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Piriteze is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist, as the safety of cetirizine in these situations has not been fully established. Your healthcare provider can advise on the most appropriate allergy treatment for you during this time. Do not self-medicate with antihistamines during pregnancy without professional guidance.

What happens if I miss a dose of Piriteze Tablets?

If you forget to take your tablet, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case simply skip the missed one. Never take two tablets at once to compensate for a missed dose. Missing an occasional dose is unlikely to cause any harm, but consistent daily use gives the best symptom control.

Can I drive after taking Piriteze Tablets?

Piriteze is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine, but it can still cause drowsiness or dizziness in some individuals. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how cetirizine affects you personally. If you feel drowsy after taking it, do not drive — this is a legal requirement under UK drug-driving laws.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Piriteze Tablets?

It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Piriteze Tablets, as alcohol can increase the risk of drowsiness and dizziness associated with cetirizine. Even though Piriteze is considered a low-sedation antihistamine, combining it with alcohol may impair your ability to drive or react quickly. If you do choose to drink, do so in moderation and be aware of how you feel.

What are the alternatives to Piriteze Tablets for hay fever?

Common alternatives include loratadine (Clarityn), fexofenadine (Telfast), and acrivastine (Benadryl Allergy Relief) — all available over the counter. Nasal corticosteroid sprays such as fluticasone (Flonase/Avamys) are also highly effective for persistent nasal symptoms. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right option based on your symptom profile and any other medicines you take.

How long can I take Piriteze Tablets for?

For seasonal hay fever, Piriteze is typically taken throughout the pollen season, which in the UK usually runs from late March to September. For year-round allergic conditions, it can be used on a longer-term basis under pharmacist or GP guidance. If your symptoms are not well controlled after a few weeks, speak to your GP about alternative or additional treatments.

Is cetirizine the same as Piriteze?

Yes — Piriteze is a branded version of cetirizine hydrochloride 10mg. The active ingredient is identical to unbranded cetirizine tablets available from pharmacies. Both work in exactly the same way and at the same dose, so the choice between branded and generic versions is largely a matter of personal preference and price.

Can Piriteze Tablets help with skin allergies and hives?

Yes, Piriteze Tablets are licensed to treat urticaria (hives) and other allergic skin reactions, not just hay fever. Cetirizine reduces the histamine-driven itch, redness, and swelling associated with these conditions. If your skin symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, always seek medical advice. You may also find our skin care range helpful for managing topical allergy symptoms alongside oral treatment.

What are the latest findings on cetirizine for allergy treatment?

Cetirizine remains one of the most widely studied and clinically validated second-generation antihistamines, consistently recommended in NHS and NICE guidelines for allergic rhinitis and urticaria. Research continues to confirm its favourable safety profile and efficacy compared to first-generation antihistamines. Current NHS guidance supports its use as a first-line treatment for hay fever and allergic skin conditions in adults and children aged 6 and over.

How Should You Use Piriteze Tablets?

Piriteze Tablets are straightforward to use, but following the correct method ensures you get the most from each dose. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before starting treatment.

If you are unsure whether Piriteze is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before starting. They can check for any interactions with medicines you already take.

What Is the Correct Dose of Piriteze Tablets?

The dose of Piriteze depends on your age and, in some cases, your kidney function. Never exceed the recommended daily dose, as this will not improve symptom control and may increase the risk of side effects.

When Is the Best Time to Use Piriteze Tablets?

Because Piriteze provides up to 24 hours of symptom relief from a single dose, you have flexibility in when you take it. Most people find taking it in the morning works well for daytime hay fever symptoms, particularly during high pollen periods. However, if you notice any mild drowsiness, shifting your dose to the evening before bed is a practical solution that many people find helpful.

For best results during hay fever season, try to take your tablet before you head outdoors or before pollen counts peak — typically between 11am and 3pm on warm, dry days in the UK.

How Long Can You Use Piriteze Tablets For?

For seasonal hay fever, Piriteze is typically used throughout the relevant pollen season — in the UK this generally runs from late March through to September, depending on which pollens trigger your symptoms. For year-round allergic conditions such as dust mite or pet dander allergy, longer-term use is possible under pharmacist or GP supervision.

If your symptoms are not adequately controlled after two to four weeks of regular use, or if they worsen, speak to your GP. They may recommend additional treatments such as a nasal corticosteroid spray or referral to an allergy specialist.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Piriteze Tablets?

Most people tolerate Piriteze Tablets well, but like all medicines, they can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects are generally mild and often resolve without any need to stop treatment.

  • Drowsiness or fatigue
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Piriteze Tablets?

Less common side effects affect a smaller proportion of people taking cetirizine. If you notice any of the following, mention them to your pharmacist at your next opportunity — they can advise whether you need to adjust your treatment.

  • Agitation or restlessness
  • Paraesthesia (tingling or pins and needles)
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Skin rash or itching (paradoxical reaction)
  • Palpitations
  • Abnormal liver function (very rare)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Piriteze Tablets?

Serious side effects from Piriteze are rare, but they do require prompt medical attention. Stop taking the tablets immediately and seek urgent help if you experience any of the following signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Sudden drop in blood pressure causing dizziness or collapse
  • Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling

These reactions are uncommon but can be life-threatening. Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you suspect anaphylaxis.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Piriteze Tablets?

For mild side effects such as drowsiness or headache, try taking your tablet in the evening rather than the morning, and ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Dry mouth can often be managed by sipping water regularly or using sugar-free chewing gum. If side effects are persistent, bothersome, or affecting your daily life, speak to your pharmacist — they may suggest switching to an alternative antihistamine such as loratadine or fexofenadine.

You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Piriteze Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Piriteze has relatively few drug interactions compared to older antihistamines, but there are still some important ones to be aware of. Alcohol is the most significant — combining it with cetirizine can increase drowsiness and impair your reaction time. Other central nervous system depressants, including sedatives, sleeping tablets, and some anxiety medicines, may have a similar additive effect. Taking Piriteze alongside other antihistamine-containing products (including some cold and flu remedies) should be avoided to prevent double-dosing. If you take theophylline for asthma or a lung condition, let your pharmacist know before starting Piriteze.

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