Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride Brown & Burk Uk (Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride)

Levocetirizine is an H1‑antihistamine that acts on allergic and urticarial pathways.

• Allergic rhinitis: reduces nasal congestion, sneezing, itching and watery discharge.
• Chronic idiopathic urticaria: diminishes the number and severity of hives and associated itching.
• Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis: alleviates eye itching and redness caused by pollen exposure.

• Levocetirizine dihydrochloride selectively antagonises peripheral histamine H1 receptors, preventing histamine‑mediated vasodilation, increased vascular permeability and sensory nerve stimulation. By blocking these receptors, it reduces the inflammatory cascade that underlies allergic rhinitis and urticaria, leading to symptom relief without significant central nervous system penetration.

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

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: mild to moderate sleepiness, especially after the first dose.
• Headache: transient tension‑type headache.
• Dry mouth: reduced salivation causing mild discomfort.
• Fatigue: feeling of reduced energy.
• Nausea: occasional upset stomach.
• Abdominal pain: mild cramping.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Angioedema: swelling of face, lips or throat requiring urgent care.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis: severe skin reactions.
• Anaphylaxis: rapid onset of systemic allergic response.
• Cardiac arrhythmia: rare reports of palpitations.
• Hepatic dysfunction: elevated liver enzymes.
• Severe dizziness or syncope: may indicate hypotension.

Before using Levocetirizine, consider the following safety points.

• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional; safety data are limited.
• Renal impairment: dose adjustment may be required in patients with reduced kidney function.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution in moderate liver disease.
• Driving and machinery: avoid operating heavy equipment if drowsiness occurs.
• Alcohol and CNS depressants: limit intake as additive sedation may result.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Levocetirizine may interact with other medicines; review the following categories.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Alcohol and sedative drugs: can increase drowsiness and impair cognition.
• Other antihistamines: additive antihistaminic effects may cause excessive sedation.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): may potentiate antihistaminic side effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): may raise plasma levels of levocetirizine.
• Renal‑clearing drugs (e.g., probenecid): could reduce excretion and increase exposure.
• Anticholinergic agents: may worsen dry mouth and constipation.