Levocetirizine

Levocetirizine is an antihistamine that may be used to reduce allergy symptoms such as red, itchy, or watery eyes, a runny nose; sneezing; rashes; or reactions to insect bites or stings.

Introduction #

Generic name: Levocetirizine

Brand names: Xyzal, LEVRIX, XYZALL

Dosage forms: oral solution; oral tablet

Drug class: Antihistamines

Storage: Store levocetirizine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Uses #

Treatment of Allergic conditions

Benefits #

• Levocet Tablet provides relief from symptoms such as blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes. This will make it easier for you to go about your daily activities.

• It can also give relief from allergic reactions after insect bites and symptoms of hives and eczema such as rash, swelling, itching, and irritation. This will improve the appearance of your skin and you may find that your mood and self-confidence improve as well.

• It rarely has any serious side effects and you may only need to take it on days you have symptoms. Moreover, Levocet Tablet may make you feel less sleepy as compared to other antihistamine medicines.

• If you are taking it to prevent getting symptoms you should use it regularly to get the most benefit.

How it works #

Levocet Tablet is an antihistaminic medication. It treats allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes by blocking the effects of a chemical messenger (histamine) in the body.

Directions for use #

• Take levocetirizine exactly as directed on the label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets about levocetirizine.

• A child’s dose of levocetirizine is based on the age of the child. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions very carefully.

• Do not give a child more than the prescribed dose of levocetirizine. A child’s body absorbs twice as much of the same dose of levocetirizine as an adult’s body.

• Taking more levocetirizine than instructed will not make it more effective, and may cause severe drowsiness.

• Levocetirizine is usually taken in the evening, with or without food.

• Measure liquid levocetirizine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you also have a fever.

Side effects #

Levocetirizine may cause serious side effects. Stop using levocetirizine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• Worsening allergy or urticaria symptoms

• Painful or difficult urination

• Little or no urination

• A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out

• Fever

• Signs of an ear infection–ear pain or full feeling, trouble hearing, drainage from the ear, fussiness in a child.

Common side effects of levocetirizine may include:

• Drowsiness, tiredness

• Sinus pain

• Ear infection

• Cough

• Fever

• Nosebleed

• Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation

• Dry mouth

• Weight gain.

Warnings #

Follow all the directions on your levocetirizine label and package. Tell all your healthcare providers that you take levocetirizine.