Letol
Generic Name
Levocetirizine
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| letol 1 mg syrup | ৳ 40.00 | N/A |
| letol 2 mg tablet | ৳ 1.70 | ৳ 17.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Letol (Levocetirizine) is a non-sedating antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergies like runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and hives. It works by blocking histamine, a natural substance that the body produces during an allergic reaction.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
5 mg (one tablet) once daily, preferably in the evening.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients with impaired renal function. Consult a physician.
Renal_impairment
Dosage should be reduced in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment. Consult product leaflet or physician for specific guidelines.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. It is recommended to take it in the evening.
Mechanism of Action
Levocetirizine, the active enantiomer of cetirizine, is a potent and selective antagonist of peripheral H1-receptors. It blocks the effects of histamine released during allergic reactions, thereby reducing allergic symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action within 15-30 minutes.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine (approximately 85.4% of the dose).
Half life
Approximately 7-10 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, peak plasma concentration reached within 0.9 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver (less than 14% of the dose).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine or any component of the formulation or to cetirizine.
- End-stage renal disease (CrCl <10 mL/min).
- Patients on hemodialysis.
- Infants and children under 6 years of age with impaired renal function.
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May increase plasma concentrations of levocetirizine.
Theophylline
May slightly decrease the clearance of levocetirizine.
Alcohol/CNS depressants
May increase CNS depression and impair alertness.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness in adults and initial agitation and restlessness followed by drowsiness in children. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Levocetirizine is excreted in human breast milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine or any component of the formulation or to cetirizine.
- End-stage renal disease (CrCl <10 mL/min).
- Patients on hemodialysis.
- Infants and children under 6 years of age with impaired renal function.
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May increase plasma concentrations of levocetirizine.
Theophylline
May slightly decrease the clearance of levocetirizine.
Alcohol/CNS depressants
May increase CNS depression and impair alertness.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness in adults and initial agitation and restlessness followed by drowsiness in children. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Levocetirizine is excreted in human breast milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from the manufacturing date, as indicated on the package.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of levocetirizine for allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
Lab Monitoring
- No specific routine lab monitoring is generally required. However, liver and kidney function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing conditions or on long-term therapy.
- Renal function monitoring (creatinine clearance) in patients with kidney impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential drowsiness, especially when initiating treatment or adjusting dose.
- Consider renal function in elderly and renally impaired patients for dose adjustment.
- Educate patients on proper administration and adherence to treatment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication as it may increase drowsiness.
- Inform your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Levocetirizine may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some individuals. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid known allergens.
- Keep your home clean and free of dust and pet dander if you have indoor allergies.
- Stay hydrated and get enough rest.
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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