Related to this topic: Equipment | Books | Your Experience | Other resources | Glossaries
Print options: Printer friendly version of this leaflet (html)     Other options:  AddThis Social Bookmark Button (what's this?)

Levocetirizine

  • 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

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 suffer from liver, kidney or prostate problems.
  • If you suffer from a blockage in the stomach or intestine.
  • If you have been experiencing difficulty or pain when urinating (passing water).
  • If you suffer from epilepsy, porphyria (a blood disorder) or glaucoma.
  • If you suffer from galactose intolerance or a related condition.
  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.

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.

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

  • 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.
© EMIS 2006 DocID:
124		 DocRef:
dils3850		 Last Updated:
26 May 2006		 Date of Next Review:
25 May 2008		 Version:
22


















Disclaimer: Patient UK has no control of the content of the above links. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by Patient UK.

Advertise on this site









Disclaimer: Patient UK has no control of the content of the above links. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by Patient UK.

Advertise on this site

PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

^ Top of Page