Levocetirizine

Uses of Levocetirizine

Levocetirizine is commonly used in the treatment of Allergic Conditions, Allergic Eye Disease and Allergic Skin Conditions. It is also used to relieve symptoms such as nasal allergy symptoms, sneezing and runny nose due to allergies.

How Levocetirizine Works

Levocetirizine is a type of antihistamine belonging to the class of selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It works by competing with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells of the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract.

Side Effects of Levocetirizine

Somnolence, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Fatigue, Dry mouth, Pharyngitis, Cough, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Constipation, Urinary Retention, Otitis Media

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Levocetirizine should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. It is contraindicated in dialysis patient. The dose adjustment of Levocetirizine is necessary and depends on the creatinine clearance rate of the patient. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Levocetirizine. Taking Levocetirizine with alcohol may increase the sedative effects of Levocetirizine.

Pregnancy Maybe Safe

Levocetirizine may be safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown no risk to the fetus. However, there are limited studies in humans. The benefits from the use of Levocetirizine in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk. Please consult your doctor.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Levocetirizine may cause side effects such as sleepiness or tiredness, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Liver Use With Care

Levocetirizine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Levocetirizine may be needed only if the patient has renal impairment as well. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Not Advisable

Levocetirizine is unsafe to use during lactation. Levocetirizine is excreted in the human breast milk and may cause effects on the baby if breastfed. Please consult your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).