Levocetirizine Tablets

What is Levocetirizine and what is it used for?

The antihistamine tablet levocetirizine dihydrochloride helps to prevent allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and urticaria (nettle rash).

Tablets such as these are more powerful than over-the-counter alternatives, and can be used to relieve itching, running of the nose, congestion, sneezing, and skin itch.

The tablets come in boxes containing thirty 5 mg tablets. Adults over the age of 18 years who have not had significant relief from allergic symptoms with over-the-counter antihistamines may be prescribed these drugs.

What is allergic rhinitis?

Approximately 20% of the UK population suffers from allergic rhinitis. Allergic reactions are caused by an overactive immune system that incorrectly interprets allergens as threats. Examples of allergens that aggravate the condition include:

• dust mites
• pollen
• animal dander

Histamine is released by the immune system to destroy these allergens. Allergies are caused by an increased blood flow to the nasal passages, which causes inflammation, congestion, and itching.

There is no cure for allergic rhinitis and it can affect anyone. It also increases the risk of developing sinusitis, middle ear infections, and nasal polyps. Additionally, it can disrupt day-to-day activities and cause sleep problems.

Allergic rhinitis sufferers should avoid the allergens that trigger their symptoms. By regularly cleansing the nasal passages with saltwater, allergens lodged inside them can be removed and symptoms eased.

How does Levocetirizine work?

Levocetirizine blocks histamine receptors, easing allergy symptoms. In doing so, other allergy-fighting chemicals are prevented from being released and increased blood flow to the affected area is prevented. By doing this, Levocetirizine reduces the immune system's reaction and frustrating allergy symptoms.

Alternative Treatments to Levocetirizine

The symptoms of hay fever can be managed using non-medicinal methods. Examples include:

• Wear wrap-around sunglasses
• Close the windows on days with high pollen counts.
• After a long day, take a shower almost immediately. Remove any pollen that has been trapped in your hair and skin.

You can purchase a wide range of OTC (over the counter) products at any pharmacy. These range from tablets to nasal sprays and eye drops.

We recommend trying them before considering a prescription-only medicine.

Levocetirizine and alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking Levocetirzine can potentially increase your risk of side effects such as drowsiness.

Levocetirizine and driving

Levocetirizine may cause drowsiness, fatigue, and exhaustion in some people. While you are not sure how this medicine will affect you, you should be cautious when driving or operating machinery.

Before taking any new medicine, read the Patient Information Leaflet and inform your doctor about any medicines you are taking or intend to take.

Levocetirizine side effects

Some people may experience side effects when taking Levocetirizine. Some of these include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth

See the Patient Information Leaflet for a complete list of side effects. If you have any concerns about these effects or if you experience any other side effects from the product, contact your doctor.

Levocetirizine dosage

Taking one tablet daily, at a similar time each day, is recommended for adults, the elderly, and children above the age of six years. Take one tablet with water before or after meals.

Contact your doctor or pharmacist if your symptoms do not improve

Documentation