What are Cetirizine and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride?

Cetirizine Hydrochloride and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride are popular second-generation antihistamines prescribed to treat various allergy conditions. Both work by blocking histamine’s effects; during an allergic response histamine releases into the system that acts like medication to manage symptoms.

Cetirizine Hydrochloride, commonly sold under the brand name Zyrtec and available as tablets, capsules or syrup, can help treat symptoms including itching, sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes – among many more! Plus it even helps treat your insomnia!

On the other hand, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is found as an active ingredient in prescription medication Xyzal and works similarly to Cetirizine Hydrochloride to relieve allergy symptoms – often stronger and longer acting; both forms are available.

Cetirizine Hydrochloride and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride are selective antagonists for histamine H1 receptors that do not produce significant sedative effects; according to some studies. Levocetirizine may offer greater effectiveness and safety benefits over Cetirizine.

Difference between Cetirizine and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride

Cetirizine Hydrochloride and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride are two antihistamine medications designed to ease allergies; however, each presents some distinct differences:

• Chemical Structure: Cetirizine Hydrochloride is a racemic mixture, comprising equal proportions of two mirror-image molecules known as enantiomers, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride being its active form; consequently only one such mirror image molecule remains within this solution.
• Potency: Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is widely recognized to be more potent than Cetirizine Hydrochloride in treating severe allergy symptoms more effectively.
• Appropriate Uses: Both medications have been approved to treat allergic rhinitis and urticaria; Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride has additionally been granted approval to treat chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (CIU), an ongoing condition lasting more than six weeks without apparent cause.
• Duration of Action: Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride may provide longer lasting relief against allergy symptoms than Cetirizine Hydrochloride; thus you could experience relief for longer.

Cetirizine Hydrochloride may be more powerful and effective as an antihistamine than Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride; however, its price can make it prohibitively costly and typically requires a valid valid valid prescription before availability. Selecting either medication depends upon individual factors like allergy severity and personal preferences in addition to consulting a healthcare provider prior to making their selection decision.

Similarities between Cetirizine Hydrochloride and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride

When experiencing an allergic reaction, these medicines work by blocking histamine release by your body to alleviate symptoms.

• Precautions: Both medicines should generally be safe for most individuals; however, caution must be exercised with those living with kidney or liver conditions as dosage adjustments may be required in such instances.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Both drugs are generally safe to take during gestation and breastfeeding; however, for the best possible care consult a healthcare provider first before making decisions based on them during these times.
• Onset: Both medications should begin working within an hour after ingestion; Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride may take effect faster than Cetirizine Hydrochloride.
• Side Effects: While both medications share similar side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, headache and nausea; Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride may be less likely to induce sleepiness than Cetirizine Hydrochloride.

Which one to choose between Cetirizine Hydrochloride and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride

Selecting between Cetirizine Hydrochloride and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride will depend upon various factors, including severity of allergy symptoms, individual medical history and personal preference. Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride tends to be more potency and effective than Cetirizine Hydrochloride but may require an active valid prescription in order to access.

Cetirizine Hydrochloride may provide enough relief for mild-to-moderate allergies when over-the-counter medication fails. But for severe or chronic allergies that don’t respond sufficiently, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride could offer greater potency; making it capable of controlling severe allergy symptoms than its competitors.

Before taking antihistamines, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider in order to find an antihistamine which best matches an individual’s specific needs and medical history. He or she can advise which will meet this goal best.

Conclusion

Cetirizine and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride are antihistamines that treat a variety of allergic conditions. These include seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis as well as urticaria and allergic conjunctivitis. Both work by blocking histamine production within your body during allergic reactions – blocking these chemicals can prevent an uncomfortable allergic response and increase overall comfort levels.

Both medications possess similar mechanisms of action, precautions and side effects; however, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride is generally thought to be more powerful and effective. Unfortunately it’s also more costly, typically only being available with a valid valid valid valid prescription.

Cetirizine Hydrochloride and Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride should ultimately be chosen based on personal factors, including severity of allergic symptoms, medical history and personal preferences. Before making your selection between them it is always wise to consult a healthcare provider who can determine which antihistamine medication best matches an individual’s specific needs and medical background.