About levocetirizine

Exposure to substances such as pollen, pet fur, house dust or insect bites can cause some people to produce an excess of a chemical called histamine. This causes allergic symptoms which can include rashes, sneezing, watery eyes and a runny or blocked nose.

Levocetirizine blocks the effects of histamine, which helps to relieve these symptoms.

Before taking levocetirizine

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking levocetirizine it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have problems with the way your kidneys work.
• If you have epilepsy.
• If you have porphyria (this is a rare inherited blood disorder).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to another antihistamine, or to any other medicine.

How to take levocetirizine

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about levocetirizine and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.
• The usual dose for adults and older children is one tablet daily. If it is for a younger child (aged 2-6 years), they are likely to be prescribed liquid medicine, so check the label on the bottle carefully to make sure you give the correct dose.
• You may take levocetirizine at whatever time of day you find easiest to remember, but try to take your doses at the same time of day. You can take it before or after your meals. The tablets are best swallowed with a drink of water.
• If you have been supplied liquid medicine, a dose syringe will have been included in the pack. To measure out your dose, dip the syringe into the solution and draw the plunger up to the mark which corresponds to the dose prescribed. Remove the syringe from the bottle and empty its contents into a spoon or a glass of water (it can be taken undiluted or diluted with water). Rinse the syringe with water after use.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Your doctor will tell you how long you should take this antihistamine for. Most people only need to take it for a short while when they have symptoms. Some people, however, may need to take it for several weeks or even months. Your doctor will tell you which is right for you.
• Although levocetirizine is classed as a non-drowsy antihistamine, it can still cause drowsiness in a few people. If this happens to you, do not drive or use tools or machines.
• If you drink alcohol while you are on levocetirizine, be aware of its effects on you and do not drink more than moderate amounts.

Can levocetirizine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store levocetirizine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• The liquid medicine only keeps for three months once opened. Do not store it or use it after this time.

Important information about all medicines