Levosina
Generic Name
Levocetirizine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
levosina 500 mg tablet | ৳ 15.50 | ৳ 155.00 |
levosina 750 mg tablet | ৳ 21.00 | ৳ 210.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levocetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, and sneezing. It is also used to relieve itching and rashes in chronic urticaria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
5 mg orally once daily in the evening.
Elderly
Generally, no dose adjustment is needed in elderly patients with normal renal function. For those with renal impairment, dose adjustment is necessary.
Renal_impairment
Creatinine clearance 50-79 mL/min: 2.5 mg once daily. Creatinine clearance 30-49 mL/min: 2.5 mg every other day. Creatinine clearance <30 mL/min: 2.5 mg twice weekly (every 3-4 days).
How to Take
May be taken with or without food. Administer orally.
Mechanism of Action
Levocetirizine, the R-enantiomer of cetirizine, is a potent and highly selective H1-receptor antagonist. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in urine (85.4%) via glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion.
Half life
Approximately 7-10 hours
Absorption
Rapidly and extensively absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 0.9-1 hour.
Metabolism
Less than 14% of the dose is metabolized by the liver, primarily via oxidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine or cetirizine
- End-stage renal disease (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min)
- Patients on hemodialysis
- Infants and children <6 years of age with renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May increase plasma concentrations of levocetirizine.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics)
May increase CNS depression.
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 agitation or restlessness followed by drowsiness in children. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered soon after ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Category B. Use only if clearly needed. Lactation: Excreted in breast milk, caution advised. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine or cetirizine
- End-stage renal disease (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min)
- Patients on hemodialysis
- Infants and children <6 years of age with renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May increase plasma concentrations of levocetirizine.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics)
May increase CNS depression.
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 agitation or restlessness followed by drowsiness in children. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered soon after ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Category B. Use only if clearly needed. Lactation: Excreted in breast milk, caution advised. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have confirmed the efficacy and safety of levocetirizine for its approved indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor renal function (creatinine clearance) in patients with kidney impairment.
- Monitor liver function tests if symptoms of liver impairment develop or for prolonged use.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential for drowsiness and caution with driving/machinery.
- Adjust dose in patients with renal impairment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
- Report any severe side effects to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid known allergens and triggers that worsen your allergy symptoms.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall well-being.
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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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