Nalzin
Generic Name
Levocetirizine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| nalzin 5 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levocetirizine is a non-sedating antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis (seasonal and perennial) and chronic idiopathic urticaria. It helps to alleviate sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and hives.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
The recommended dose is 5 mg (one 5 mg tablet) once daily in the evening.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is usually required in elderly patients with normal renal function. For elderly patients with renal impairment, dosage should be adjusted based on creatinine clearance.
Renal_impairment
For patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30-49 mL/min), the recommended dose is 5 mg once every other day. For severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min), the recommended dose is 5 mg twice a week. Contraindicated in end-stage renal disease (CrCl <10 mL/min).
How to Take
Nalzin 5 mg Tablet is for oral administration. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, preferably in the evening.
Mechanism of Action
Levocetirizine, the R-enantiomer of cetirizine, is a potent and selective antagonist of peripheral H1-receptors. It blocks histamine H1-receptors, thereby inhibiting the effects of histamine which include vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and stimulation of sensory nerve endings.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, with approximately 85.4% of the dose eliminated renally.
Half life
Approximately 7-10 hours in adults.
Absorption
Rapidly and extensively absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 0.9-1 hour. Food does not affect the extent of absorption but may decrease the rate.
Metabolism
Levocetirizine is minimally metabolized in humans, accounting for less than 14% of the dose. Metabolic pathways include O-dealkylation, with CYP3A4 being the primary enzyme involved.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine, cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any other piperazine derivatives.
- Patients with end-stage renal disease (CrCl <10 mL/min) requiring hemodialysis.
- Patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min).
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May increase plasma concentrations of levocetirizine, potentially leading to increased adverse effects.
CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives)
Concomitant use may increase CNS depression (e.g., drowsiness, sedation).
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. In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Levocetirizine is excreted into breast milk. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine, cetirizine, hydroxyzine, or any other piperazine derivatives.
- Patients with end-stage renal disease (CrCl <10 mL/min) requiring hemodialysis.
- Patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min).
Drug Interactions
Ritonavir
May increase plasma concentrations of levocetirizine, potentially leading to increased adverse effects.
CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives)
Concomitant use may increase CNS depression (e.g., drowsiness, sedation).
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. In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Levocetirizine is excreted into breast milk. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Levocetirizine has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria across various patient populations, including pediatric and adult subjects. These trials have shown rapid onset of action and sustained symptom relief.
Lab Monitoring
- No specific routine laboratory monitoring is required for levocetirizine use.
- Renal function monitoring may be necessary in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential drowsiness and to avoid activities requiring mental alertness until individual response is known.
- Caution in patients with a predisposition to urinary retention (e.g., spinal cord lesion, prostatic hyperplasia) as levocetirizine may increase the risk.
- Dose adjustment is crucial in patients with renal impairment to avoid accumulation and increased adverse effects.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Levocetirizine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination in some patients. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when engaging in hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness, such as driving a vehicle or operating machinery, until they know how they react to this medication.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication as it may increase drowsiness.
- Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness.
- Maintain good hydration.
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