Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Syrup: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage and More
What Is Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Syrup?
Levocetirizine hydrochloride syrup, also sold as an oral solution, is an antihistamine medicine used to relieve symptoms caused by allergies.
It works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions. Levocetirizine can help reduce symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose or throat, and itchy or watery eyes. It is also used to treat hives (urticaria).
The liquid form can be particularly convenient for children and people who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Syrup Uses
Levocetirizine syrup is mainly used for allergy-related symptoms and hives.
1. Allergic Rhinitis
Levocetirizine can help relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose
- Itchy throat
- Watery eyes
- Red or itchy eyes
- Nasal allergy symptoms
It may be used for allergies triggered by substances such as dust, pollen, animal dander, or other allergens, depending on the patient’s age and product labeling.
2. Hives or Urticaria
Levocetirizine is also used to relieve the skin symptoms of chronic urticaria, commonly called hives.
Hives may cause:
- Raised red or skin-colored patches
- Intense itching
- Swelling of the skin
Levocetirizine helps reduce the effects of histamine that contribute to these symptoms.
3. Itching Caused by Allergies
When itching is caused by an allergic reaction, levocetirizine may help reduce the sensation of itching.
However, unexplained or persistent itching can have many causes. An antihistamine should not be used to mask symptoms without finding the underlying cause when medical evaluation is needed.
How Does Levocetirizine Syrup Work?
Levocetirizine is a histamine H1-receptor antagonist.
During an allergic reaction, the body releases histamine. Histamine can cause symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and hives.
Levocetirizine blocks H1 histamine receptors and helps reduce these allergy symptoms.
How to Use Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Syrup
Use levocetirizine syrup exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the medicine label.
Step-by-step
- Check the strength of the syrup or oral solution.
- Measure the prescribed amount using a proper measuring device.
- Take it by mouth.
- Take it at the recommended time each day.
- Do not take more than the prescribed amount.
Levocetirizine can generally be taken with or without food. Some formulations are recommended once daily, often in the evening.
Do not use a household teaspoon to measure medicine, because its volume can vary.
Levocetirizine Syrup Dosage
The correct dose depends on the patient’s age, medical condition, kidney function, and the strength of the product.
For example, the U.S. prescribing information for a 2.5 mg/5 mL oral solution provides age-specific dosing. For allergic rhinitis, children 6 months to 2 years may receive 1.25 mg once daily in the evening under that labeling. For chronic urticaria, the labeled doses vary by age.
Important
Do not calculate a child’s levocetirizine dose only from their age or weight using information from the internet.
Different products and countries may have different approved age ranges, strengths, and instructions. Always follow the prescription or package leaflet.
Levocetirizine Syrup for Children
Levocetirizine is available in liquid formulations that may be easier for children to take.
However, the dose for children must be carefully followed. The official labeling for some levocetirizine oral solutions includes specific doses for children as young as 6 months for particular indications.
Never give a child an adult dose unless specifically instructed by a doctor.
Children with kidney problems may require special consideration, and some formulations have specific restrictions for pediatric patients with renal impairment.
Levocetirizine Syrup Side Effects
Like other medicines, levocetirizine can cause side effects.
Common side effects
Some of the commonly reported side effects include:
- Sleepiness or drowsiness
- Tiredness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Sore throat or throat irritation
- Nasal or respiratory symptoms
The exact side effects can differ according to age. Clinical labeling reports somnolence, nasopharyngitis, fatigue, dry mouth, and pharyngitis among common adverse reactions in older patients. Different symptoms have been reported in younger children.
Drowsiness
Levocetirizine can cause sleepiness in some people.
Until you know how the medicine affects you, be careful with activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
Avoid combining it with alcohol unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Serious Side Effects of Levocetirizine
Serious reactions are uncommon, but seek medical attention if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe dizziness
- Fainting
- Severe skin reactions
The official prescribing information also includes warnings about somnolence, urinary retention, and new-onset itching after stopping long-term levocetirizine treatment.
Levocetirizine and Kidney Problems
Levocetirizine is substantially eliminated through the kidneys.
People with reduced kidney function may therefore need a lower or less frequent dose. The prescribing information provides specific dose adjustments for adults and children 12 years and older with different degrees of renal impairment.
People with serious kidney disease should not self-medicate with levocetirizine.
Ask a doctor before using it if you have kidney disease.
Who Should Avoid Levocetirizine Syrup?
Tell your doctor before using levocetirizine if you:
- Have kidney disease
- Have previously had an allergic reaction to levocetirizine
- Have had a reaction to cetirizine
- Have difficulty passing urine
- Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
- Are breastfeeding
- Take other medicines that cause drowsiness
The official labeling lists hypersensitivity to levocetirizine, cetirizine, or ingredients in the product as a contraindication. It also lists restrictions for patients with end-stage renal disease and certain pediatric patients with renal impairment.
Levocetirizine Syrup During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking levocetirizine.
Do not start or stop an allergy medicine during pregnancy without discussing it with a healthcare professional.
Levocetirizine Syrup While Breastfeeding
Ask your doctor before using levocetirizine while breastfeeding.
Your doctor can consider your symptoms, the medicine dose, and the potential effects on the breastfeeding infant before recommending treatment.
Levocetirizine Syrup Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you use.
Particular caution may be needed with medicines or substances that can increase drowsiness.
The official prescribing information also describes interactions involving several medicines, including certain drugs studied with levocetirizine.
Can Levocetirizine Syrup Be Used for a Common Cold?
Levocetirizine is primarily an antihistamine for allergy symptoms, not an antibiotic or a treatment that eliminates the common cold virus.
If sneezing or a runny nose is caused by an allergy, levocetirizine may help.
A common cold, however, is usually caused by a viral infection. Levocetirizine does not cure the underlying viral infection.
Levocetirizine Syrup for Cough
Levocetirizine is not a general cough medicine.
It may help when coughing or throat irritation is associated with an allergic condition, but it is not suitable for treating every type of cough.
Persistent, severe, or unexplained cough should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take levocetirizine, take the missed dose when you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose.
Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.
Follow the instructions provided with your particular product.
What Happens If You Take Too Much Levocetirizine?
Taking more levocetirizine than prescribed can increase the risk of side effects, including excessive sleepiness.
If you or a child accidentally takes too much medicine, contact a doctor, pharmacist, or local poison-information service for advice rather than waiting for symptoms to develop.
Levocetirizine Syrup Storage
Store levocetirizine syrup according to the instructions on the product label.
Keep the medicine:
- Out of the reach of children.
- In its original container when possible.
- Away from excessive heat and moisture.
- According to the temperature and storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Do not use medicine after its expiry date.
Levocetirizine vs Cetirizine
Levocetirizine and cetirizine are closely related antihistamines.
Both are used to treat allergy symptoms and hives. Levocetirizine is the active enantiomer of cetirizine and works by blocking H1 histamine receptors.
Which medicine is more appropriate depends on the individual patient, symptoms, age, other medicines, and medical history.
Do not take both together unless your doctor specifically tells you to.
Frequently Asked Questions About Levocetirizine Syrup
What is levocetirizine hydrochloride syrup used for?
It is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose or throat, and itchy or watery eyes. It is also used for symptoms of hives (urticaria).
Does levocetirizine syrup make you sleepy?
Yes. Sleepiness or drowsiness can occur in some people.
Can children take levocetirizine syrup?
Some levocetirizine oral solutions are approved for use in young children for specific conditions. The correct age and dose depend on the product and indication, so use it in children only according to medical advice or the product’s approved instructions.
Can levocetirizine syrup be taken with food?
Yes. The official prescribing information for levocetirizine oral solution states that it can be taken without regard to food.
Is levocetirizine an antibiotic?
No. Levocetirizine is an antihistamine, not an antibiotic.
Can levocetirizine cure allergies permanently?
No. Levocetirizine controls allergy symptoms while you are taking it. It does not permanently cure the underlying tendency to develop allergies.
How long does levocetirizine take to work?
Levocetirizine is designed to relieve allergy symptoms, but the time to noticeable relief can vary between people and depends on the condition being treated. Follow the prescribed schedule rather than taking extra doses for faster relief.
Can I take levocetirizine every day?
It may be prescribed or recommended for regular daily use for certain allergic conditions. However, the appropriate duration depends on the reason for treatment and your health condition.
Can levocetirizine be stopped suddenly?
For most short-term use, stopping is generally straightforward. However, the current prescribing information includes a warning about new-onset itching after discontinuation, particularly after prolonged use. Speak with your doctor if you develop significant itching after stopping long-term treatment.
Key Takeaway
Levocetirizine hydrochloride syrup is an antihistamine used mainly to relieve allergy symptoms and hives. It can help with sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, itching, and other histamine-related symptoms.
The medicine can cause drowsiness, tiredness, dry mouth, and other side effects. Children should receive only the dose appropriate for their age, condition, product strength, and medical history.
People with kidney disease should consult a healthcare professional because levocetirizine dosing may need adjustment.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes and should not replace advice from a qualified doctor or pharmacist. Medicine strengths, approved uses, age limits, and dosing recommendations can vary between countries and products. Always read the medicine label and follow the prescription or advice provided by your healthcare professional.