LEVOREST -5 (Heart shaped)

It is an antihistamine medication manufactured by Lifepharma. This medication contains levocetirizine, which controls the allergic reaction and provides relaxation from the irritating allergies it provides relief from seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms, itching or hives on the skin.  It may show some side effects, but are normally adapted by the body, such as Drowsiness or sedation, Dry mouth, Headache, Fatigue, Sleepiness,and  Nasal congestion. The recommended dosage is 5mg of the tablet daily. However, it comes with some precautions that need to be followed for an effective treatment.

Indications for its use 

This medicine is indicated to be used in the following conditions 

• seasonal and perennial allergic conditions such as sneezing, runny or itchy nose, watery eyes etc.
• Chronic idiopathic urticaria  that includes itching and hives on the skin
• Rashes
• Itching
• Reactions to insect bites or stings

Mechanisms of action 

Levocetirizine specifically blocks peripheral H₁ histamine receptors. It also stops histamine, a substance in your body that causes allergy symptoms. By blocking a naturally occurring chemical in your body, levocetirizine will keep you from sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives, watery eyes, etc.; this would occur by downregulating receptor expression and signalling in immune cells, thereby reducing allergic inflammation and allergic responses.

Dosages and administration 

The dosages are basically based on the prescription for the effective and full potential outcome, so it is recommended to take as per the doctor prescription. Some of the common dosages are as follows: 

• For adults, it is 5mg once daily in the evening, with or without food.
• For children aged 6–11, once daily in the evening.
• Do not chew or break the tablet 
• Take it with water and swallow 

Possible Side Effects

This medication comes with some side effects that are adapted by the body, but if they persist, then consult the doctor. Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Sleepiness
• Nasal congestion, 
• sore throat
• cold-like symptoms

Precautions that need to be followed 

While using this medicine, some precautions must be followed to ensure the safe use of if and an effective outcome with no unwanted consequences. Some of the precaution measures are listed below:

• May cause drowsiness, so avoid the use of heavy machines and driving./ 
• It can cause kidney impairment, so keep the amount of dosage amount in check. 
• In case of pregnancy, use only if prescribed by the doctor 
• If the user is hyper-sensitive to the ingredient, do not use it. 
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any type of supplement to avoid drug interactions. 

Storage Advice 

• Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight 
• Keep the container tightly closed.
• Keep away from sunlight.