XYZAL (LEVOCETIRIZINE DIHCL)

Levocetirizine is a third-generation non-sedative antihistamine, developed from the second-generation antihistamine cetirizine. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.

Symptomatic treatment of seasonal & perennial allergic rhinitis including persistent allergic rhinitis & chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.

Drowsiness, tiredness, and dry mouth may occur. Fever or cough may also occur, especially in children. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: difficulty urinating, weakness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

 

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before taking levocetirizine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to cetirizine; or to hydroxyzine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: difficulty urinating (such as due to an enlarged prostate), kidney disease.

This drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

 

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness including alcohol, other antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants, and narcotic pain relievers (such as codeine).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

Do not use with any other antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray) because increased side effects may occur.

Levocetirizine is very similar to hydroxyzine and cetirizine. Do not use these medications while using levocetirizine.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness. In children, mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, agitation) may occur before drowsiness. If overdose is suspected, bring the victim to the nearest hospital right away.

 

Available brands:

  • Allerzet (UAP)
  • Allerzet Syrup (Pediatrica)
  • Levocet-Natrapharm (Natrapharm)
  • RiteMED Levocetirizine (RiteMED)
  • Xyzal (GlaxoSmithKline)

Related Articles

VAMCEE

Sodium ascorbate is a mineral salt of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C. It's used as a dietary supplement [...]

UNASYN ORAL

Unasyn Oral is typically known as an intravenous medication. It is the combination antibiotic drug containing ampicillin and sulbactam. It's [...]

TAREG

Tareg (valsartan) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. It may be used [...]