What is levocetirizine dihydrochloride and what is it used for
Levocetirizine dihydrochloride is a medicine that belongs to a class of medicines called 'antihistamines'. It is used to relieve the signs and symptoms related to seasonal allergic rhinitis (allergic reactions caused by seasonal allergens such as tree pollen, grass pollen, and pollen causing a stuffy and runny nose) and perennial allergic rhinitis (allergic reactions caused by perennial allergens such as Dust mites, mold, pet dander, and some insects that cause stuffy and runny noses). It is also used to treat the uncomplicated cutaneous manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria (a chronic condition that results in itching, red bumps, or vegetations).
Do not take levocetirizine dihydrochloride
• If you are allergic to levocetirizine dihydrochloride, or any of the ingredients in this medicine. Tell your doctor about your allergies and signs.
• If you suffer from severe renal impairment or if you are undergoing dialysis.
• If you are 6 to 11 years old and have renal impairment.
Warnings and precautions
• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you develop allergic reactions such as shortness of breath, rash, swelling of the face or neck, low blood pressure and dizziness.
• Avoid driving, using machinery or any other dangerous occupation that requires complete mental alertness.
• Avoid alcohol or other central nervous system depressants when taking this medicine.
Possible side effects of levocetirizine dihydrochloride
Possible side effects of levocetirizine dihydrochloride include allergic reactions, fatigue, weakness, and drowsiness. Other common side effects that may be observed in patients 12 years of age and older include nasopharyngitis, dry mouth, and pharyngitis. Additional common side effects that may be seen in children 6 to 12 years old include fever, cough, and nosebleeds.
Other medicines and levocetirizine dihydrochloride
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken, or might take any of the following medicines:
• If you are taking theophylline (used to relieve airway spasms).
• If you are taking ritonavir (used to treat HIV).
How to take levocetirizine dihydrochloride
Adults and children 12 years of age and older:
5 mg (1 tablet or 2 teaspoons [10 mL] of oral solution) once daily in the evening. Dosage adjustment may be required in patients with impaired renal function.
Children from 6 to 11 years old:
2.5 mg (½ tablet or 1 teaspoon [5 mL] of oral solution) orally once daily in the evening. Do not exceed 2.5 mg daily. Do not give this medicine to children under 6 years old.
• Take the tablets or oral solution with or without food.
• Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
• Take the medicine at the same time every day.
How to store levocetirizine dihydrochloride
• Store the tablets and the oral solution at 15 to 30°C.
• Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not use the medicine after the expiry date stated on the carton.
• Keep the medicine in its original package to protect it from moisture and light.
• Do not use damaged grain.
• Do not dispose of medicines in wastewater or household waste.
