TL;DR
- Cartidin is a levocetirizine‑based antihistamine used for seasonal and perennial allergy relief.
- Typical adult dose: 5mg once daily; children 2‑11years: 2.5mg once daily (or half an adult tablet).
- Works within 1‑3hours, effects last up to 24hours.
- Common side effects: mild drowsiness, dry mouth, headache; serious reactions are rare.
- Available over the counter in most Australian pharmacies; price ranges $12‑$20 for a pack of 10 tablets.
What Is Cartidin and How It Works?
When you hear the name Cartidin, think “fast‑acting allergy pill”. In Australia the brand is marketed as a 5mg tablet of levocetirizine, a second‑generation antihistamine that blocks H1 receptors in the brain and peripheral tissues. By stopping histamine from binding, it halts the cascade that causes sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose and that itchy throat most of us cringe at during pollen season.
Why levocetirizine instead of older drugs like chlorpheniramine? Two reasons: it’s less likely to make you feel drowsy, and it has a longer half‑life (about 8‑9hours), meaning one tablet can cover a whole day. The molecule is a pure enantiomer of cetirizine - essentially a “cleaner” version that delivers the same allergy relief with fewer off‑target effects.
Cartidin is sold as a standard 5mg tablet, but pharmacies often split the tablet for kids or for those who want a lower dose. The split‑tablet approach is safe because the tablet is not coated; each half contains roughly 2.5mg of active ingredient.
When and How to Use Cartidin Correctly
Getting the timing right can make a big difference. Here’s a quick‑start checklist you can keep on the fridge:
- Identify your trigger. Whether it’s grass pollen, dust mites, pet dander or mold spores, knowing the culprit helps you decide when to start the pill.
- Start 24hours before exposure. If you know you’ll be outdoors for a match or a garden party, pop a tablet the night before. The drug peaks in blood within 1-3hours, so you’ll have coverage when the pollen hits.
- Take it with water. Food doesn’t affect absorption much, but a glass of water reduces the chance of stomach irritation.
- Stick to once‑daily dosing. Missing a day can let histamine creep back in; a single dose is enough for 24hours, so no need to split it into morning/evening.
- Watch for drowsiness. While levocetirizine is marketed as non‑sedating, a small proportion of people (especially when first starting) feel a bit sleepy. If you’re driving or operating machinery, give it a trial night at home first.
**Dosage by age**
- Adults & teenagers (12years+): 5mg once daily.
- Children 2‑11years: 2.5mg once daily (half a tablet).
- Under 2years: Not recommended without doctor supervision.
**Special populations**
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Levocetirizine is classified as Category B2 in Australia - animal studies show no harm, but human data are limited. Always check with your GP before starting.
- Kidney impairment: Since the drug is excreted unchanged by the kidneys, reduce the dose to 2.5mg daily if a doctor notes reduced renal function.
- Elderly: No dose adjustment needed for most, but watch for combined drowsiness if taking other sedatives.
**What to do if you miss a dose** - take it as soon as you remember unless it’s within 12hours of the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed tablet and resume the regular schedule. Never double‑dose to “catch up”.
Safety, Side Effects and Frequently Asked Questions
Even the safest drugs have a side‑effect profile. The good news is that most people tolerate Cartidin without trouble.
Common, mild side effects
- Drowsiness (≈10% of users) - usually light and wears off after a few days.
- Dry mouth or throat.
- Headache.
- Nausea or mild stomach upset.
Rare but serious reactions
- Allergic rash, swelling of the face or throat (anaphylaxis). Seek medical help immediately if these appear.
- Changes in heart rhythm are extremely rare and usually linked to pre‑existing conditions.
Drug interactions you should know
- Alcohol - may increase drowsiness.
- Other antihistamines - additive sedation.
- Ritonavir (HIV medication) - can raise levocetirizine levels.
- Phenobarbital, carbamazepine - may lower effectiveness.
If you’re on any of the above, a quick chat with your pharmacist can confirm whether you need to adjust the dose.
Cartidin vs. other antihistamines
| Product | Active ingredient | Typical dose | Onset | Sedation risk |
|---|
| Cartidin | Levocetirizine 5mg | 5mg once daily | 1‑3h | Low |
| Claratyne | Cetirizine 10mg | 10mg once daily | 1‑2h | Low‑moderate |
| Zyrtec | Fexofenadine 180mg | 180mg once daily | 1‑2h | Very low |
| Benadryl | Diphenhydramine 25mg | 25‑50mg every 4‑6h | 15‑30min | High |
From the table it’s clear why Cartidin is a go‑to for people who need steady relief without feeling foggy. If you’re a night‑shift worker who can’t afford any drowsiness, you might still prefer a non‑sedating option like fexofenadine.
How much does Cartidin cost in Australia?
Pricing fluctuates with pharmacy chains and bulk‑buy discounts. As of September2025:
- 10‑tablet pack: $12‑$18.
- 20‑tablet pack: $22‑$30.
- Online suppliers (e.g., Chemist Warehouse, Priceline) often run “buy‑2‑get‑1‑free” promos.
Most private health funds cover a portion of the cost when you have a doctor’s script, but over‑the‑counter purchases are rarely reimbursed.
FAQ - quick answers
- Can I take Cartidin with my daily multivitamin? Yes, no known interaction.
- Will it help with a cold? It won’t cure a virus, but it can relieve runny‑nose symptoms caused by histamine release.
- Is it safe for pets? No - dogs and cats metabolise antihistamines differently; give only veterinary‑approved products.
- Can I crush the tablet? It’s safe to split, but don’t crush; the powder can irritate the throat.
- How long can I stay on Cartidin? Most guidelines say up to 12weeks without a doctor’s check‑up. Longer use is possible if a GP monitors liver and kidney function.
When to see a doctor
If you experience any of the following, stop the medication and get medical advice:
- Swelling of lips, tongue or face.
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
- Persistent headache lasting more than 48hours.
- Signs of liver trouble - yellow skin or dark urine.
These are rare, but better safe than sorry.
Next steps - what to do after reading
1. Identify the allergy trigger. Keep a simple diary of symptoms and environments for a week.
2. Buy a pack. Visit your local pharmacy or order from a reputable online Australian pharmacy. Look for the 5mg tablet and compare the price table above.
3. Start with a trial day. Take one tablet in the evening, note any drowsiness, then decide if you can use it for a whole season.
4. Consult your GP if you have chronic asthma or eczema. They may suggest a combined approach with a nasal spray or inhaled steroid.
5. Set reminders. A phone alarm at bedtime can help you keep the once‑daily routine.
With the right knowledge, Cartidin can turn a sneezy spring into a comfortable one. Stay informed, follow the dosing guide, and enjoy the relief.
