Levocetirizine
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Levocetirizine
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| Systematic (IUPAC) name | |
| 2-[2-[4-[(R)-(4-chlorophenyl)-phenyl-methyl] piperazin-1-yl]ethoxy]acetic acid |
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| Identifiers | |
| CAS number | |
| ATC code | R06 |
| PubChem | |
| Chemical data | |
| Formula | C21H25ClN2O3 |
| Mol. mass | 388.888 g/mol |
| Pharmacokinetic data | |
| Bioavailability | High |
| Protein binding | 90% |
| Metabolism | Hepatic 14% CYP3A4 |
| Half life | 6 to 10 hours |
| Excretion | Renal and fecal |
| Therapeutic considerations | |
| Pregnancy cat. |
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| Legal status | |
| Routes | Oral |
Levocetirizine (as levocetirizine dihydrochloride) is a third generation non-sedative antihistamine, developed from the second generation antihistamine cetirizine. Chemically, levocetirizine is the active enantiomer of cetirizine.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.
It is claimed to be more effective and with fewer side effects than the second generation drugs.[citation needed]
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[edit] History & formulations
Xyzal® was first launched in 2001 by Belgian pharmaceutical company UCB.
It is available as 5mg strength tablets and marketed under brand names Xyzal® in the United Kingdom or Xusal® in Europe.
[edit] Side Effects
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. It should be used with caution when working with machines. You should also make sure you know how this medicine affects you before you perform potentially hazardous activities.
[edit] Research
Latest research shows levoceterizine reduces asthma attacks by 70% in children.[1]
[edit] Availability
Although the drug is available in the U.S., and most countries of Europe, it comes at a higher price than second generation antihistamines and treatment with levoceterizine is costly in poorer countries of Eastern Europe.
[edit] External links
[edit] References
- ^ http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=48201/ levoceterizine prevents asthma
