Levocetirizine is an antihistamine medication commonly used to alleviate allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes. It effectively treats conditions like allergic rhinitis and chronic hives. By blocking the action of histamine in the body, Levocetirizine provides relief from both seasonal and year-round allergies. It is typically taken once daily and is known for its minimal side effects.
Levocetirizine Tablet Uses
Levocetirizine is an antihistamine that is used for alleviating symptoms of some allergies, such as:
It is sometimes used to alleviate hives and scratching
Conditions Levocetirizine used to Treats
Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Perennial allergic rhinitis
Chronic urticaria
Itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing
If symptoms like allergic rhinitis or chronic urticaria continue to affect your daily life, you may consult our general medicine specialists for expert care.
Secondary Uses of Levocetirizine Tablet
Occasionally used in managing skin allergies
May help with allergic asthma symptoms (adjunct)
How Does Levocetirizine Work?
Levocetirizine is an antihistamine that blocks H1 histamine receptors, which are responsible for allergic symptoms. By preventing histamine from binding, it reduces inflammation and allergic reactions.
In simple terms: It blocks the chemical (histamine) that causes sneezing, itching, and runny nose during allergies.
Levocetirizine Dosage
Follow all instructions on the product label for over-the-counter use; consult your pharmacist/doctor with any questions.
Take orally in the evening, with or without food, usually once daily.
Use a special measuring device/spoon for liquid form; do not use a household spoon.
The dosage depends on age, medical condition, and treatment response; do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency.
Missed Dose
If you have forgotten to take any doses, take it as soon as you recall. If the time for the next dose has already come, skip the forgotten dose.
Overdose
Do not overdose. If someone takes too much, something serious can happen; immediately go to the doctor.
Symptoms of overdose:
Increased drowsiness
Agitation or restlessness (especially in children)
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
If any symptoms worsen or persist, consult a doctor.
Precautions and Warnings of Levocetirizine
Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to Levocetirizine, cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or other substances.
Disclose your medical history, especially if you have difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland or kidney disease.
Be cautious of drowsiness, especially when consuming alcohol or marijuana; avoid activities requiring alertness.
Liquid formulations may contain sugar and/or aspartame, so consult your doctor if you have diabetes or phenylketonuria.
Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products, before surgery.
Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with your doctor, considering the risks and benefits.
Levocetirizine does not deter or prevent or treat extreme allergic reactions (such as anaphylaxis).
If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always bring your injector with you. Do not try to use Levocetirizine in place of epinephrine.
For personalised guidance or if you need a proper evaluation before starting this medication, you can book an appointment at Medicover Hospitals for expert consultation.
Conditions Where Caution Is Needed
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Individuals with urinary retention issues
Liver impairment
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Levocetirizine?
Generally safe for children above 6 years
Pediatric formulations available for younger children (liquid/syrup)
Alcohol or Food Interactions
Alcohol:
May increase drowsiness
Best to avoid alcohol while on this medication
Food:
Food doesn't affect absorption; can be taken with or without meals
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
Share a list of all medications with your doctor, including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products.
Consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or adjusting any medication.
Avoid drugs causing drowsiness, like opioid pain or cough relievers, alcohol, cannabis, sleep/anxiety pills, muscle relaxants, or other antihistamines.
Check labels of all drugs for drowsiness-causing ingredients.
Avoid using other skin-applied antihistamines.
Do not use hydroxyzine or cetirizine concurrently with levocetirizine.
Certain lab tests may be affected; inform lab staff and doctors about medication use.
How Should Levocetirizine Be Stored?
Keep this drug securely locked with a tight bottle cap/container and out of the reach of children.
Store it away from excess heat/direct heat and moisture at room temperature.
Unwanted drugs should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that they can not be ingested by pets, infants, and other individuals.
What Happens If Levocetirizine Is Not Stored Properly?
May lose potency or effectiveness
Avoid exposure to sunlight or moisture
Levocetirizine vs Cetirizine
Levocetirizine
Cetirizine
Molar mass: 388.8878 g/mol
Molar mass: 388.89 g/mol
brand name Xyzal
brand name Zyrtec
used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and long term hives of unclear cause
used to treat dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and urticaria.
Levocetirizine is referred to as a non-drowsy antihistamine; in a few individuals, however, it can still induce drowsiness. Before you drive and before you use equipment or machines, ensure that your reactions are natural.
Yes, levocetirizine can be used to alleviate symptoms associated with the common cold, such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion, particularly when these symptoms are related to allergic reactions.
People who use Xyzal (levocetirizine)-an antihistamine similar to Zyrtec (cetirizine)-have found that they have put on extra pounds, which is what has been experienced by a very small number of patients who used the medication during studies.
A fixed-dose combination of Paracetamol, Phenylephrine, and Levocetirizine is safe and effective for treating common colds and allergic rhinitis in infants.
Anti-allergy drugs, such as antihistamines, can be prescribed if allergies are the source of chronic sinusitis. Agents such as Levocetirizine contain these.
Pregnancy Group B drugs are also new antihistamines, such as over-the-counter loratadine (Claritin, generic forms) and cetirizine (Zyrtec, generic forms). Xyzal is a newer prescription antihistamine that is pregnancy category B (levocetirizine).
No, levocetirizine is not an antibiotic. It is an antihistamine used to treat allergies like sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
Levocetirizine usually starts working within 1 hour of intake, with its full effect typically seen within 2–3 hours.
No, levocetirizine is not a steroid. It is a non-drowsy antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms.
Levocetirizine should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
