levocetirizine

levocetirizine is available as 5 mg oral tablet and a 2.5 mg/5 ml oral solution.

levocetirizine is an antihistamine that is used for the: Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat) Relief of itchiness due to chronic (long-term) hives – by prescription only

levocetirizine is an antihistamine. It blocks histamine, a natural chemical in your body that can cause allergy symptoms like itchiness, itchy eyes, or runny nose. By blocking histamine, levocetirizine helps relieve allergy symptoms.

The directions can be different depending on the levocetirizine product you have. Be sure to check the medication box for specific instructions or follow your provider’s directions.

In general, the dose is as follows:

Tablets (over the counter (OTC) or by prescription)

• Ages 65 years and older: Ask your provider
• Ages 18 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 2.5 mg or 5 mg by mouth once per day in the evening. The dose depends on how severe your allergy symptoms are. The maximum dose is 5 mg in a 24-hour period
• Ages 6 to under 12 years: The typical dose is 2.5 mg by mouth once per day in the evening. The maximum dose is 2.5 mg in a 24-hour period

Ages younger than 6 years: Ask your child’s provider.

Solution (OTC):

• Ages 65 years and older: Ask your provider.
• Ages 12 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) or 10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) by mouth once per day in the evening. The dose depends on how severe your symptoms are. The maximum dose is 10 mL in a 24-hour period
• Ages 6 to under 12 years: The typical dose is 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) by mouth once per day in the evening. The maximum dose is 5 mL in a 24-hour period
• Ages 2 to under 6 years: The typical dose is 2.5 mL (one-half teaspoonful) by mouth once per day in the evening. The maximum dose is 2.5 mL in a 24-hour period
• Ages younger than 2 years: Ask your child’s provider

Follow your prescriber’s instructions if you’re taking the prescription solution because the age cut-offs are different.

levocetirizine is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have any of the following:

• Known hypersensitivity to levocetirizine or any of the
  ingredients of levocetirizine or to cetirizine
• End-stage renal impairment at less than 10 mL/min
  creatinine clearance or patients undergoing hemodialysis
• Children 6 to 11 years of age with renal impairment

Common side effects of levocetirizine:

• Sleepiness
• Cold-like symptoms
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Serious side effects are rare with levocetirizine. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.

• Accidentally taking too much medication: fast heartbeat, flushing, extreme sleepiness, hallucinations, changes in vision, irritability in children

The following medications may interact with levocetirizine:

• Ritonavir: May increase the levels and effects of levocetirizine

Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers

It is not known if levocetirizine will harm your unborn baby. You and your doctor will have to decide if you should take levocetirizine while you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant.