Generic
Levocetirizine Hydrochloride
35 brands available in the market
At a glance
Levocetirizine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine used for the treatment of allergic conditions. It relieves symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes in hay fever, conjunctivitis, eczema, hives, and reactions to bites and stings.
Description
Levocetirizine is the active (Levo) isomer of cetirizine. It is a highly effective and well-tolerated non-sedating antihistamine with potent antiallergic properties. It has a two-fold higher affinity for H1 receptors than cetirizine. Levocetirizine has a rapid and long-acting action, allowing once-a-day administration.
Indications
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Perennial allergic rhinitis
- Chronic idiopathic urticaria
Therapeutic class
Non-sedating Antihistamines
Pharmacological class
H1 Receptor Antagonist
Pharmacology
Levocetirizine competitively binds to H1 receptors, blocking the effects of histamine, an allergic mediator.
Mechanism of action
Reduces allergic reactions by blocking H1 receptors.
Dosage
Adult and Children 12 years+: 5 mg once daily
Children 6-11 years: 2.5 mg (½ tablet or 1 teaspoon oral solution) once daily
Children 6 months-5 years: 1.25 mg (½ teaspoon oral solution) once daily
Renal Impairment: CrCl 50-80: 2.5 mg daily; 30-50: 2.5 mg every other day; 10-30: 2.5 mg twice weekly; <10: contraindicated
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- May be taken with or without food, but at a fixed time is preferable
- Usually taken in the evening
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Sleepiness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness (rare)
Precautions & warnings
- Caution when driving or doing activities requiring concentration (may cause drowsiness or dizziness)
- Avoid alcohol (may cause excessive drowsiness)
- Stop at least 3 days before allergy testing
- Caution in epileptic patients and patients at risk of convulsions
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine, cetirizine, or hydroxyzine
- Severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min)
Drug interactions
- Possible additive adverse CNS effects with CNS depressants (e.g., sedatives, tranquilizers)
Food interactions
Levocetirizine may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Levocetirizine is generally considered safe during pregnancy (FDA Category B). Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Levocetirizine is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby. Larger doses or prolonged use may cause drowsiness and other effects in the baby or decrease milk supply.
Pediatric use
Pediatric doses are established (age-based); safety not established in children under 6 months.
Geriatric use
No special dose adjustment needed in elderly (dose adjustment may be based on mild renal impairment).
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment based on creatinine clearance; contraindicated in severe renal impairment (CrCl <10).
Hepatic Impairment: Safe in liver disease; no dose adjustment needed.
Overdose effects
No clinically relevant adverse events have been reported in overdose; symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended.
Storage conditions
Store at a temperature not exceeding 30°C in a dry place; protect from light.
Chemical structure
Levocetirizine Hydrochloride