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Levocetirizine

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Levocetirizine is a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can still cause drowsiness in a few people. 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.
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.

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

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

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).

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk

DocID: 124

DocRef: dils3850

Last Reviewed: 5 Jan 2009

Version: 23

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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