Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride Accord Healthcare (Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride)

Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is an H1‑receptor antagonist used to manage allergic conditions.

• Allergic rhinitis: reduces nasal congestion, sneezing, itching and rhinorrhoea.
• Chronic idiopathic urticaria: diminishes the frequency and severity of hives and pruritus.
• Seasonal allergic rhinitis: provides symptom control during pollen exposure.

• Levocetirizine selectively blocks peripheral histamine H1 receptors, preventing histamine from binding to its target cells. This inhibition reduces the vascular permeability, sensory nerve activation and glandular secretion that underlie the classic signs of allergic inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms such as itching, swelling, and nasal discharge.

Levocetirizine is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: mild to moderate sedation, especially at initiation.
• Fatigue: feeling of reduced energy.
• Dry mouth: decreased salivation.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Nausea: occasional upset stomach.
• Altered taste: metallic or bitter sensation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Angioedema: swelling of face, lips or throat.
• Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Anaphylaxis: acute, life‑threatening hypersensitivity.
• Hepatic enzyme elevation: abnormal liver function tests.
• Thrombocytopenia: reduced platelet count.
• Seizures: rare neurologic events.

Before initiating therapy, consider patient‑specific factors and safety measures.

• Renal function: adjust use in severe renal impairment.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution in moderate liver disease.
• Hypersensitivity: avoid if known allergy to levocetirizine or other piperazine antihistamines.
• Sedation: advise patients not to operate machinery until they know how the drug affects them.
• Alcohol: limit intake as it may increase drowsiness.
• Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; weigh benefits against potential risks.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture.

Levocetirizine may interact with other medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Other H1 antihistamines: additive sedation.
• Central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids): heightened drowsiness.
• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): may increase plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticholinergic agents: potential for increased dry mouth.
• Diuretics: monitor electrolyte balance.
• Warfarin: observe INR for possible changes.
• Theophylline: watch for altered theophylline concentrations.