Levocetirizine information from DrugsUpdate
L - Contraindicated in lactation
Levocetirizine (as levocetirizine dihydrochloride) is a third-generation non-sedative antihistamine, developed from the second-generation antihistamine cetirizine. Chemically, levocetirizine is the active enantiomer of cetirizine. It is the L-enantiomer of the cetirizine racemate. Levocetirizine works by blocking histamine receptors. It does not prevent the actual release of histamine from mast cells, but prevents it binding to its receptors. This in turn prevents the release of other allergy chemicals and increased blood supply to the area, and provides relief from the typical symptoms of hayfever.
Pharmacodynamics
Pharmacokinetics
Levocetirizine, an active isomer of cetirizine, selectively inhibits histamine H1-receptors.
Absorption
Rapidly and extensively absorbed from the GI tract (oral); peak plasma concentration in 0.9 hours.
Distribution
Protein-binding: 91-92%.
Metabolism
Via aromatic oxidation, N- and O-dealkylation and taurine conjugation.
Excretion
Via urine (85.4%), via faeces (12.9%), as metabolites and unchanged drug; 8 hours (plasma half-life).
Levocetirizine Indications / Levocetirizine Uses
Information Not Available
Levocetirizine Adverse Reactions / Levocetirizine Side Effects
Fatigue, somnolence, dry mouth, nasopharyngitis, pyrexia, cough, epistaxis.
Precautions
Information Not Available
Special Precautions
Renal impairment. May impair ability to drive or operate machinery.
Other Drug Interactions
Additive sedation with alcohol and other CNS depressants.
Other Interactions
Information Not Available
Dosage
Oral
Allergic conditions
Adult: As hydrochloride: 5 mg daily in the evening; 2.5 mg may be adequate in some patients. Max dose: 5 mg daily.
Child: As hydrochloride: 6-11 years: 2.5 mg once daily. Max dose: 2.5 mg daily. ≥12 years: 5 mg once daily; 2.5 mg may be adequate is some patients. Max dose: 5 mg daily. All doses to be taken in the evening.
CrCl (ml/min) Dosage Recommendation
50-80 2.5 mg once daily.
30-50 2.5 mg every other day.
10-30 2.5 mg twice weekly (give every 3-4 days).
Food(before/after)
May be taken with or without food.
List of Contraindications
Levocetirizine and Pregnancy
Information Not Available
Levocetirizine and Lactation
Contraindicated in lactation
Levocetirizine and Children
Information Not Available
Levocetirizine and Geriatic
Information Not Available
Levocetirizine and Other Contraindications
Lactation. End-stage renal disease (CrCl <10 ml/min) or haemodialysis patients. Child 6-11 years with renal impairment.
Storage
Oral
Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F).
Lab interference
Oral
Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F).
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