Levocetirizine

Levocetirizine — Uses and Benefits

Levocetirizine is used to treat allergic conditions.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny or blocked nose due to allergy)
• Itchy and watery eyes caused by allergies
• Chronic urticaria (long-term hives or itchy skin rashes)
• Skin allergies with itching and redness

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks histamine receptors in the body
• Histamine is a chemical released during allergic reactions that causes itching, swelling and redness
• By blocking its action, this medicine reduces allergy symptoms

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Bacterial or viral infections such as cold or flu
• Asthma attacks
• Food poisoning or stomach infections
• Severe allergic reactions needing emergency treatment (anaphylaxis)

How to Use Levocetirizine

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Usually taken once daily, preferably in the evening
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• If using syrup form, use the measuring cup provided

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Levocetirizine — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Tiredness or fatigue

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Stomach discomfort
• Sore throat
• Difficulty sleeping
• Weakness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe skin rash or blistering
• Irregular heartbeat
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Levocetirizine — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available in India as a prescription medicine, though some low-dose formulations may be sold over the counter; it is best to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to levocetirizine, cetirizine or hydroxyzine
• Have severe kidney disease without medical supervision
• Are a child below the age advised on the label

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver problems
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have epilepsy or a history of seizures
• Are elderly, as sensitivity to side effects may be higher
• Need to drive or operate machinery, as drowsiness may occur

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other sedating antihistamines or sleep medicines
• Alcohol, as it may increase drowsiness
• Theophylline, used for breathing problems
• Medicines that affect kidney function

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine daily for a long time?

It can be used for chronic allergies under medical supervision, but long-term use should be reviewed by a doctor.

Will it make me feel sleepy?

It can cause mild drowsiness in some people, so avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

Can I take it with other cold or allergy medicines?

• Avoid combining with other antihistamines unless advised by a doctor to prevent excess sedation.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.