Should I give my child Zyrtec or Claritin in the morning or at night?

Zyrtec can cause drowsiness

The syrup, both chewable strengths and Dissolve Tabs warn that drowsiness may occur. Their warnings also require checking with a doctor or pharmacist before use with sedatives or tranquilizers, which can increase drowsiness. A drowsiness warning does not turn an allergy medicine into a sleep medicine or supply a new bedtime schedule.

Claritin’s timing guidance is separate

The manufacturer permits Claritin with or without food and at any time of day. For the children’s grape liquid, follow its own daily directions and 24-hour maximum. Its label warns that taking more than directed may cause drowsiness.

Do not turn “24 hour” into one rule for every Zyrtec package

The 1 mg/mL syrup and 2.5 mg chewable labels include a conditional every-12-hours option for ages 2 to under 6, with specific amounts and daily limits. The 10 mg chewable and Dissolve Tabs have separate once-daily directions beginning at age 6. Read the complete applicable row; this page does not select an option for a child.

If sleepiness or changing the time is the concern

Ask the child’s clinician or pharmacist how to handle troublesome sleepiness or a change in administration time. Give them the exact product and time of the last dose. Do not add an extra dose just to move from morning to night.

Related questions