Xyzal (levocetirizine)

How does it work?

Xyzal tablets and solution both contain the active ingredient levocetirizine dihydrochloride, which is a type of medicine called a non-sedating antihistamine. It works by preventing the actions of histamine. Histamine is a substance produced by the body as part of its defence mechanisms. It is stored in cells called mast cells, in almost all tissues of the body. When the body reacts to a foreign substance (known as an allergen, eg flower pollen), the mast cells stimulated by the allergen release their stores of histamine. The released histamine then binds to its receptors (H-1 receptors), causing a chain reaction that results in allergic symptoms. It causes an increase in blood flow to the area of the allergy, and the release of other chemicals that add to the allergic response. All this results in the symptoms of an allergic reaction. In hayfever, histamine causes inflammation of the nose, eyes, skin or airways and results in itchy watery eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion. Levocetirizine works by blocking histamine receptors. It does not prevent the actual release of histamine from mast cells, but prevents it binding to its receptors. This in turn prevents the release of other allergy chemicals and increased blood supply to the area, and provides relief from the typical symptoms of hayfever. Levocetirizine can also be used to relieve the symptoms of a condition called chronic idiopathic urticaria. This is a chronic itchy rash, similar to nettle rash, but with no apparant cause. Blocking the actions of histamine relieves the itching and reduces the rash associated with this condition. Levocetirizine is called a non-sedating antihistamine as it does not enter the brain in significant amounts, and is therefore unlikely to cause drowsiness. However, some people may experience some slight sleepiness or fatigue.

What is it used for?

Hayfever (seasonal allergic rhinitis).

Hayfever that occurs throughout the year due to allergies, eg pets, dust mites (perennial allergic rhinitis).

Ongoing itchy rash with no known cause.

Warning!

Although levocetirizine is a non-sedating antihistamine, very rarely some people may experience drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinary. You should make sure you know how this medicine affects you before you perform potentially hazardous activites.

It is recommended that you avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol while taking this medicine.

If you are due to have any skin prick tests to diagnose allergies you should stop taking your antihistamines at least 48 hours before the tests. This is because antihistamines can prevent or lessen the skin reactions that indicate an allergy, and so can make the test results unreliable.

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function.

Not to be used in

Severely decreased kidney function.

Allergy to medicines that contain piperazine derivatives (your doctor will know more about this - tell them if you are allergic to any medicines).

Xyzal tablets should not be used in children under six years old.

Xyzal solution should not be used in children under two years old.

Xyzal tablets contain lactose and may not be suitable for people with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption.

Xyzal solution contains maltitol and may not be suitable for people with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance.

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine in pregnancy has not been established. It should therefore be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the benefits to the mother outweigh any risks to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine may pass into breast milk. It should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the nursing infant. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Headache.

Dry mouth.

Fatigue.

Sleepiness.

Weakness or loss of strength (asthenia).

Abdominal pain.

Shortness of breath.

Nausea.

Weight gain.

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Go To Next Page>>
The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved