Levocetirizine

Levocetirizine: Allergy Medication

What is Levocetirizine?

Levocetirizine is a third-generation, non-sedative antihistamine medication that's primarily used to provide relief from various symptoms associated with allergies. It's useful in managing conditions such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and urticaria (hives). In allergic rhinitis, symptoms that levocetirizine alleviates include watery eyes, runny nose, itching of the eyes or nose, and sneezing. For people with chronic urticaria, a condition that results in the formation of itchy, red welts on the skin, levocetirizine helps in reducing the itching and swelling associated with the condition.

How does Levocetirizine work?

Levocetirizine operates by selectively inhibiting histamine receptors, specifically the H1 receptors. Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that plays a pivotal role in many allergic reactions. It binds to its receptors located in various cells, leading to symptoms of an allergic reaction such as itchiness, redness, swelling, and changes in secretions like a runny nose or watery eyes. By blocking the H1 histamine receptors, levocetirizine prevents histamine from exerting its effects, thus reducing or eliminating the symptoms of the allergic reaction.

Levocetirizine Dsages & Usages

What are the different doses of Levocetirizine?

The usual adult dose of levocetirizine is 5 mg once daily in the evening. For children between six to twelve years, it is typically 5 mg once daily, but some benefit from a 2.5 mg dose. For children six months to five years old, 1.25 mg once daily in the evening is usually the recommended dose. Adjustments might be necessary for those with kidney problems.

Levocetirizine 5 mg

Levocetirizine 5 mg is the standard dose for adults and children above 12 years of age for the treatment of allergic symptoms. Administered once daily, the dose is generally well-tolerated and provides relief from allergies for a full 24-hour period.

Levocetirizine 10 mg

Levocetirizine 10 mg is not a standard dose. Doubling the usual dose potentially increases the risk of side effects such as drowsiness or sedation. Always consult a healthcare provider before increasing the dosage of any medication.

Levocetirizine syrup

Levocetirizine syrup is often given to children for ease of administration. The syrup allows for flexible dosing and is particularly useful for children below the age of six, for whom lower doses are recommended.

Levocetirizine Side Effects

Does levocetirizine cause sleep?

Levocetirizine, like loratadine, is a second-generation antihistamine and is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to first-generation antihistamines. However, a minority of people experience mild drowsiness. It is advisable to be aware of individual reactions to medication, particularly when driving or operating machinery.

Levocetirizine Alternatives

Levocetirizine vs Cetirizine

Levocetirizine and cetirizine are both effective antihistamines. Levocetirizine is the active component of cetirizine. It has been suggested that levocetirizine potentially has a more potent and longer-lasting effect than cetirizine, but the difference is generally not substantial and both drugs are used to effectively treat allergy symptoms.

Are cetirizine and levocetirizine the same?

No, while cetirizine and levocetirizine are related, they are not the same. Cetirizine contains both levocetirizine and an additional component, whereas levocetirizine is the purified active part of cetirizine. Both are used for the relief of allergy symptoms.

Can cetirizine be taken instead of levocetirizine?

Yes, it is possible to take cetirizine instead of levocetirizine, as both are used to alleviate allergy symptoms, depending on a healthcare provider's advice. However, their effects vary from person to person. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before switching medications.

Is levocetirizine a strong antihistamine?

Yes, levocetirizine is a potent antihistamine. As the active component of cetirizine, it is known to provide effective relief from allergy symptoms. However, its potency does not translate to increased drowsiness, as it is a second-generation antihistamine.