Second-generation H1 antihistamine
Cetirizine in Germany: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Cetirizine in Germany under BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in EUR. Cetirizine belongs to the Second-generation H1 antihistamine class.
- Regulator
- BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte)
- Currency
- EUR
About Cetirizine
Cetirizine is approved in adults and children for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, including seasonal and perennial forms, allergic conjunctivitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. Germany classifies medications into rezeptpflichtig (prescription), apothekenpflichtig (pharmacy-only) and freiverkäuflich (general sale). The two-tier non-Rx system is unusual and widely used.
Mechanism and action
Cetirizine selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors, antagonising the effects of histamine released by mast cells during allergic responses.
Brands and generics in Germany
In Germany, Cetirizine is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. German Apotheken are independent owner-pharmacist businesses by law, with strong professional standards. Statutory health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) covers most prescription costs. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte) equivalence rules, and the price difference in EUR is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Mail-order pharmacies (DocMorris and others) are well-established in Germany for both Rx and OTC medications, operating under the same regulatory framework as bricks-and-mortar Apotheken. For Cetirizine specifically, the legal online options in Germany depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte).
Frequently asked questions
Is Cetirizine available in Germany? ▾
Yes — Cetirizine and its brands are available in Germany through pharmacies authorised by BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte), in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Cetirizine in Germany? ▾
Germany classifies medications into rezeptpflichtig (prescription), apothekenpflichtig (pharmacy-only) and freiverkäuflich (general sale). The two-tier non-Rx system is unusual and widely used. The exact status of Cetirizine (Rx or OTC) is determined by BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte); most active ingredients in the Second-generation H1 antihistamine class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Cetirizine cost in Germany? ▾
The price in EUR depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Cetirizine in Germany
Cetirizine in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.