Alernova 0.5mg/ml Oral Solution

Indication

Management of allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria.

Dosage (summary)

The usual dose for adults and children over 12 years is 5 mg once daily. For children aged 6 to 12 years, the dose is 2.5 mg once daily.

Onset of Action / Duration

Onset of action is within 1 hour, with a duration of effect lasting up to 24 hours.

Special Populations

• Elderly patients may require dose adjustment.
• Patients with renal impairment should have their dose adjusted based on severity.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Levocetirizine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administered to nursing mothers.

Key Drug Interactions

• Caution is advised when used with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants.
• May enhance the effects of other antihistamines.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine, cetirizine, or any of the excipients.
• Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 mL/min).

Common side effects

• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Gastrointestinal disturbances

Counselling Points

• Advise patients to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
• Inform patients about the potential for drowsiness and to avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
• Encourage patients to report any severe allergic reactions or unusual side effects.