Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Cetirizine Rx (Zyrtec) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| 10mg Tablets OTC (30-day) | $5 – $15 | $0 – $5 |
| 5mg/5mL Syrup Rx (pediatric) | $10 – $25 | $0 – $8 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: OTC; prescription covered on some plans for children or higher doses
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
No, cetirizine (Zyrtec) is available OTC. A prescription may be needed for insurance coverage or specific pediatric formulations.
Generic cetirizine costs $5 to $15/month OTC. Store brands and bulk sizes are even cheaper.
Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine marketed as non-drowsy, but it causes more sedation than loratadine or fexofenadine.