Sign in
|
About levocetirizine
| Type of medicine | Non-drowsy antihistamine |
| Used for | Allergies including hayfever and skin reactions |
| Also called | Xyzal® |
| Available as | Tablets and oral solution |
Exposure to pollen, pet fur, house dust, an insect bite or another trigger, can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms that can include sneezing, watery eyes, a running or blocked nose and sometimes skin reactions such as itching, swelling and rashes. Antihistamines stop the effects of histamine and help to relieve these symptoms.
Before taking levocetirizine
Before taking levocetirizine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you suffer from liver problems.
- If you suffer from kidney problems.
- If you suffer from epilepsy.
- If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder).
- If you suffer from glaucoma (increased eye pressure).
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
- Levocetirizine is not suitable for children under 2 years of age.
How to take levocetirizine
- Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor
- Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you forget to take a dose take it as soon as you remember but leave at least 24 hours before taking the next dose.
- If you have been supplied with the oral solution, a dose syringe will have been included in the pack. 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.
Can levocetirizine cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Drowsiness, tiredness | Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation, and be aware of its effects on you |
| Dry mouth | Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If your mouth becomes too dry, discuss the problem with your doctor or pharmacist |
| Headache, disturbed sleep | If these symptoms continue speak to your doctor or pharmacist |
Less commonly reported side-effects include stomach pain, weakness, itching, rash, swelling, shortness of breath, weight gain and nausea. If you experience these or any other worrying 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.
Important information about all medicines
|
References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Xyzal® tablets, UCB Pharma Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated September 2007, accessed 2008.
- Manufacturer's PIL, Xyzal® Oral Solution, UCB Pharma Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2007, accessed 2008.
- British National Formulary; 56th Edition (September 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).