Description
Levocetirizine is a non-sedating antihistamine. It blocks the H1 receptor, and it is the active half of cetirizine, so a 5mg dose is used rather than 10mg. It is licensed for the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including sneezing, a blocked or runny nose and itchy watery eyes, and for chronic idiopathic urticaria, a long-lasting nettle rash.
The usual adult dose is one 5mg tablet once a day, swallowed with water, with or without food. It can be taken through the pollen season or only on the days symptoms occur. Although it is described as non-sedating, some people still feel drowsy, so see how it affects you before driving or using tools. Tell your prescriber if you have kidney problems, because a lower dose or a longer gap between doses may be needed, and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Non-sedating antihistamine, the active enantiomer of cetirizine
- Licensed for allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria
- Usual adult dose is one 5mg tablet once a day
- Some people still feel drowsy; see how it affects you before driving
- The dose may need reducing if you have kidney problems
