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Is Cetirizine safe long-term for my dog's itchy skin and organs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 9 months old

What is the long term side effect of Tablet CETRIZINE HYDROCHLORIDE 10mg tablet twice a day to 35kg dog? Does it have any side affect on liver or kidney or any part or organ of the body? Because i am giving this to bruno to recover the red ictchi skin on his muzzle area

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Cetirizine HCl is generic zyrtec, which is an antihistamine. It is not FDA approved in dogs, though a lot of Vets use it off label. This means we do not know a lot about it in animals. Cetirizine appears well tolerated in dogs and cats. Vomiting or hypersalivation after dosing have been reported in some dogs. Drowsiness has been reported in small dogs at higher dosages. Do not use pseudoephedrine (e.g., Zyrtec-D 12 Hour®). There hasn't been any liver or kidney damage reported even with overdoses. I recommend it in my allergic patients and have seen no side effects and some dogs are on it long term. I tell them that antihistamines should be used on a regular, ongoing basis in animals that respond to them. They work better if used before exposure to an allergen. Zyrtec may cause less drowsiness/sleepiness than some other antihistamines, but this can still happen. It can be given on an empty stomach, but if your animal vomits or drools, try giving with food. I hope this helps!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 19th, 2017

    Hello there and thank you for posting your question! Antihistamines are quite safe to use long term. There are no concerns with using either one of these for the long term management of allergies. If they are not working well, then I would consider seeing your vet to discuss prescription treatments. Hope this helps! Please feel free to contact me with any further questions or concerns you may have. I am also available via consultation.

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