Levocetirizine

Generic name: Levocetirizine

Drug class: Antihistamines

Dosage form: Solution, Tablet

Root of administration: Oral

Dose: 5 mg, 5 mL

Mechanism of action: Levocetirizine works by reducing the effects of a natural chemical in the body called histamine. Histamine can produce symptoms such as a runny nose or hives. 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.

Drug usage cases: Levocetirizine is used to treat symptoms of year-round (also called perennial) allergies in adults and children who are at least 6 months old. Levocetirizine is also used to treat itching and swelling caused by chronic (long-lasting) urticaria (hives) in adults and children who are at least 6 months old.

Drug contra indications: You should not use levocetirizine if you are allergic to levocetirizine or cetirizine (Zyrtec). You should not take levocetirizine if you have end-stage kidney disease or if you are on dialysis. Any child younger than 12 years old with kidney disease should not take levocetirizine. Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

kidney disease, liver disease, urination problems (caused by conditions such as enlarged prostate or spinal cord lesion); or gallbladder problems. Levocetirizine is not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 months old.

side effects: Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to levocetirizine: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. 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; or signs of an ear infection–ear pain or full feeling, trouble hearing, drainage from the ear, fussiness in a child.

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

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Levocetirizine is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or intending to become pregnant. You should not breast-feed while taking levocetirizine.