Levocetirizine General Information
Levocetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.
How to Use Levocetirizine
Take Levocetirizine by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the evening.
If you are using the liquid form of Levocetirizine, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take Levocetirizine more often than directed.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Levocetirizine Possible Side Effects
Drowsiness, tiredness, and dry mouth may occur. Fever or cough may also occur, especially in children. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed Levocetirizine because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Levocetirizine do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: difficulty urinating, weakness.
A very serious allergic reaction to Levocetirizine is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Levocetirizine Precautions
Before taking Levocetirizine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to cetirizine; or to hydroxyzine; or if you have any other allergies. Levocetirizine may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using Levocetirizine, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: difficulty urinating (such as due to an enlarged prostate), kidney disease.
Levocetirizine may make you drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, Levocetirizine should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Levocetirizine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Levocetirizine Possible Intercations
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness including alcohol, other antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants, and narcotic pain relievers (such as codeine).
Check the labels on all your medicines (such as cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
Do not use with any other antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray) because increased side effects may occur.
Levocetirizine is very similar to hydroxyzine and cetirizine. Do not use these medications while using Levocetirizine.
Levocetirizine may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use Levocetirizine.