Levocetirizine

Levocetirizine (Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride) is an anti-allergic medicine that comes in the category of second-generation anti-histamine medicines. It helps in reducing the effects produced by histamine, which is a natural chemical present in the body. It is available as an over-the-counter medicine, however, it is recommended to take with a doctor’s advice or when prescribed by a doctor. 

What are the uses of Levocetirizine?

Levocetirizine tablets uses are mainly for treating the symptoms of allergies.

• Allergic symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, itching of the skin, redness of the skin, allergies to molds, fur, and seasonal allergies.

• Skin allergies such as rashes on the skin, hives, burning, etc.

• Allergies after insect bites.

How and when to take Levocetirizine?

A person must take this anti-allergy tablet as prescribed by the doctor. One should avoid taking an overdose, and it should not be taken for a long time. Taking this medicine for a long time will increase the risk of developing side effects.

• You must check the label and follow the instructions to use this medicine safely.

• It should be taken at night after food. If the medicine has to be given to a child, you must measure the correct dose with a measuring spoon or cup.

The dose may be different for different people depending on the symptoms and age. Consulting a doctor is strongly advised for the proper dosage.

What are the side effects of Levocetirizine?

Some people may experience some levocetirizine side effects. One must stop taking the medication if the following symptoms appear:

• Fatigue

• Mouth parchedness

• Weakness

• Fever

• My nose is bleeding.

• Throat discomfort

• Sleepiness

• Rashes all over the body

• Itching and burning

• Round and raised red spots on the skin

• Cough

If you experience any side effects from the medicine, you must consult with your doctor immediately to get help.

What are the precautions to be taken while taking Levocetirizine?

You must keep in touch with your doctor to ensure that the medicine is working efficiently. The doctor may advise you to get your blood or urine tested to check for any unwanted effects of the medicine.

• The medicine may cause urinary retention. If you have a reduced frequency of passing urine, you must consult with your doctor. If you experience difficulty in passing urine or pain while passing urine, you must tell your doctor.

• You may feel weak and tired after taking this medicine. You should avoid driving after taking this medicine.

• If you consume alcohol or other medications that may interact with this medication, your symptoms will become worse. You may feel dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty sleeping, etc.

• If you are taking anti-depressants, tranquilizers, or sleeping pills, you must consult with your doctor before taking this medicine.

• Pregnant women should avoid taking levocetirizine because it may harm the baby. Breastfeeding women should not take this medicine without a doctor’s advice. 

Some medical conditions, such as an enlarged prostate and kidney disease, may reduce the effectiveness of this medication. Therefore, you must tell your doctor if you are suffering from any other medical problems.

What if I miss a dose of Levocetirizine?

If you miss a dose of Levocetirizine, take it as soon as you remember it. If your next dose is due in some time, then you must skip it and take your regular dose. Avoid taking a double dose to avoid overdosing and its harmful consequences.

What would happen if I overdose on Levocetirizine?

If a person took an overdose on this medicine, it could cause serious side effects. The person may have the following symptoms after taking an overdose of levocetirizine:

• Extreme fatigue and weakness

• Excessive sleepiness

• Restlessness

If a person takes an overdose of levocetirizine, contact the doctor immediately and visit an emergency room if the symptoms become worse.

What are the storage conditions for Levocetirizine?

• This medicine should be kept at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.

• Avoid keeping it in bathrooms or other damp areas.

• Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

• Avoid keeping the medicine in direct sunlight.

Can I take Levocetirizine with other medicines?

Some medicines should not be taken with levocetirizine at all. Some medicines that may interact with this levocetirizine include Alprazolam, Baclofen, Benzhydrocodone, Cannabidiol, Dexmedetomidine, Gabapentin, etc. Moreover, this medicine may interact with alcohol or tobacco, as an interaction may occur.

But, if any medicine is important to take, the doctor will make changes in the doses or provide alternatives. Always consult your doctor before taking any of the medicines to be on the safe side.

How quickly do Levocetirizine tablets show results?

Generally, it starts working after an hour. The medicine will show its complete effect in six hours and the effect of the medicine stays in the body for 26-27 hours approximately. 

Comparison between Levocetirizine and Cetirizine

This should have given all the necessary information about Levocetirizine medicine. It is important to know your medicines before you start taking them. Moreover, you should always get medical advice from your doctor before taking any such medications.

FAQs

1. What is Levocetirizine used for?

Levocetirizine is an antihistamine that is commonly used to relieve symptoms associated with allergic conditions such as hay fever (allergic rhinitis), hives (urticaria), and allergic conjunctivitis.

2. How does Levocetirizine work?

Levocetirizine works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance produced by the body in response to an allergic reaction. By inhibiting histamine, Levocetirizine helps reduce symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes.

3. Is Levocetirizine available over-the-counter?

Levocetirizine is available both over-the-counter and as a prescription medication, depending on the formulation and strength. Lower strengths are often available without a prescription.

4. Can Levocetirizine be used for children?

Levocetirizine is generally safe for use in children, but the dosage depends on the child's age and weight. It's important to follow the pediatrician's recommendations and use formulations specifically designed for children.

5. How should Levocetirizine be taken?

Follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare professional or as indicated on the product label. It's usually taken once a day, with or without food.

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/levocetirizine-oral-route/precautions/drg-20071083?p=1#:~:text=Levocetirizine%20is%20used%20to%20relieve,runny%20nose%2C%20and%20watery%20eyes. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/levocetirizine-oral-tablet#other-warnings https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_levocetirizine_xyzal/drugs-condition.htm https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19735-levocetirizine-oral-tablets

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.