Antihistamines

LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB

Prescription Required

SALT COMPOSITION

TYPE

TABLET

STORAGE

Store LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until use. Do not freeze.

PRODUCT INTRODUCTION

LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB, containing Levocetirizine 5mg, is a highly effective medication designed to provide rapid and sustained relief from various allergic conditions. As a potent second-generation antihistamine, it works by blocking the action of histamine, a natural substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. This medicine is a trusted choice for managing seasonal and perennial allergies, offering comfort and improving quality of life for patients across India. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication to ensure it is suitable for your specific needs and health condition.

Uses of LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB

LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB is primarily used for the symptomatic treatment of various allergic conditions.

Allergic Rhinitis
This includes both seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis. Symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal itching, and watery, itchy eyes are effectively managed by reducing the body's histamine response, providing significant relief and improving daily comfort for patients.
Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria
LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB is indicated for the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria, commonly known as chronic hives. It helps to alleviate the intense itching, redness, and swelling associated with this skin condition by blocking histamine, which is a key mediator in the development of urticarial lesions and pruritus.
Allergic Conjunctivitis
It provides relief from the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, such as red, itchy, and watery eyes. By targeting the histamine receptors, it reduces the inflammatory response in the eyes caused by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, leading to improved ocular comfort.

Side Effects of LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB

Like all medicines, LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Common side effects

Drowsiness or sleepiness
Dry mouth
Fatigue or tiredness
Headache
Nausea

Less common or rare side effects may include:

Palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat)
Abnormal liver function tests
Weight gain
Blurred vision
Difficulty urinating

If any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience any other unusual symptoms, please consult your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue the medication without medical advice.

How to use LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB

Adults:
The usual recommended dose for adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older is one LIVO-CZ TAB (Levocetirizine 5mg) once daily in the evening. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Children:
For children 6 to 11 years of age, the recommended dose is 2.5 mg (half a 5mg tablet) once daily in the evening. For children under 6 years, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing or alternative formulations. Dosage should be strictly as prescribed by the doctor.
Elderly:
No dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients with normal renal function. However, caution should be exercised in elderly patients with impaired kidney function, and dosage may need to be adjusted based on creatinine clearance as advised by a physician.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose of LIVO-CZ TAB, 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.

How LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB works

Levocetirizine, the active ingredient in LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB, is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It exerts its anti-allergic effects by competitively binding to and blocking histamine H1 receptors located on various cells throughout the body, including those in the respiratory tract, skin, and blood vessels. This action prevents histamine from binding to its receptors, thereby inhibiting the cascade of events that lead to allergic symptoms. By blocking H1 receptors, Levocetirizine effectively reduces the release of other inflammatory mediators and suppresses the migration of inflammatory cells, which are crucial in the allergic response. This dual action helps to alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itching, and skin rashes. Its high selectivity for peripheral H1 receptors minimizes penetration into the central nervous system, leading to a lower incidence of sedation compared to older antihistamines.

Precautions

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB as it may increase drowsiness.
Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery, especially until you know how the medication affects you.
Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, as dosage adjustment may be necessary.
Patients with epilepsy or those at risk of convulsions should use this medicine with caution.
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Do not exceed the recommended dose, as it may lead to increased side effects.

Safety Advice

Alcohol

UNSAFE

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Levocetirizine, leading to excessive drowsiness, impaired judgment, and reduced alertness. Avoid alcohol entirely during treatment.

Pregnancy

CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and after consulting your doctor. Limited data are available on its use in pregnant women. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits against the risks.

Breastfeeding

CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Levocetirizine is known to pass into breast milk. Therefore, LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB should be used with caution during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits for both you and your baby.

Driving

UNSAFE

LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired concentration in some individuals. It is unsafe to drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience these effects. Assess your reaction to the medication before engaging in such activities.

Kidney

CAUTION

Patients with kidney disease should use LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB with caution. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on the severity of renal impairment. Always consult your doctor for appropriate dosing instructions if you have kidney issues.

Liver

CAUTION

LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. While Levocetirizine is primarily excreted by the kidneys, liver impairment may affect its metabolism. Consult your doctor for advice and potential dose adjustments.

Fact Box

Chemical Class

Piperazine derivative

Habit Forming

Therapeutic Class

Antihistamine, Anti-allergic

Action Class

H1-receptor antagonist

Frequently asked questions by patients

Q: Will LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB make me drowsy?

A: While Levocetirizine is generally considered less sedating than older antihistamines, some individuals may still experience drowsiness or sleepiness. It is advisable to see how you react to the medication before engaging in activities requiring full mental alertness.

Q: How quickly does LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB work?

A: LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB typically starts to work within an hour of administration. Its effects can last for up to 24 hours, providing once-daily relief from allergy symptoms. Consistent use as prescribed helps maintain its efficacy.

Q: Can I take LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB with other allergy medications?

A: It is generally not recommended to take LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB with other antihistamines, as this may increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining medications to avoid potential interactions.

Q: Is LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB suitable for long-term use?

A: LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB can be used for long-term management of chronic allergic conditions under medical supervision. Your doctor will assess your condition and determine the appropriate duration of treatment. Regular follow-ups are recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB used for?

LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB is primarily used to relieve symptoms associated with allergic conditions such as seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It effectively reduces sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes by blocking histamine.

Q: What is the best time to take LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB?

The recommended time to take LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB is in the evening. This is because, for some individuals, it may cause mild drowsiness, and taking it before bedtime can help mitigate this effect while providing relief throughout the night and the following day.

Q: Are there any food restrictions while taking this medicine?

Generally, there are no specific food restrictions when taking LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB. It can be taken with or without food. However, it is always a good practice to maintain a balanced diet and avoid any foods that might trigger your allergies.

Q: What should I do if I experience severe allergic reactions after taking LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB?

Although rare, if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or a severe rash, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms require urgent medical intervention.

Q: Can LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB be given to children?

Yes, LIVO-CZ TAB A/A TAB can be given to children aged 6 years and above, but the dosage must be adjusted according to their age and weight, and strictly as prescribed by a pediatrician. For children under 6 years, alternative formulations or treatments may be recommended.