Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride tablets 5 mg What is Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride and what is it used for Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride is a medicine belonging to a class of drugs called antihistamines. It is used to relieve the signs and symptoms related to seasonal allergic rhinitis (allergic reactions caused by seasonal allergens such as tree pollen, grass pollen, and weed pollen, which cause nasal congestion and runny nose) and perennial allergic rhinitis (allergic reactions caused by persistent allergens such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, and some insects, which cause nasal congestion and runny nose). It is also used to treat uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic urticaria of unknown cause (a chronic condition leading to itching or red bumps or eruptions). Do not take Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride • If you are allergic to Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride or any of the ingredients of this medicine. Tell your doctor about your allergies and symptoms. • If you have severe kidney impairment or are undergoing dialysis. • If you are aged 6 to 11 years and have kidney impairment. Precautions and warnings • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience allergic reactions such as shortness of breath, rash, facial or neck swelling, low blood pressure, or dizziness. • Avoid driving or operating machinery or any other dangerous jobs that require full alertness. • Avoid alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine. Possible side effects of Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride Possible side effects include allergic reactions, fatigue, weakness, and drowsiness. Other common side effects observed in patients aged 12 and above include pharyngitis, dry mouth, and sore throat. Additional common side effects seen in children aged 6 to 12 years include fever, cough, and nosebleeds. Other medicines and Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken, or might take any of the following medicines: • If you are taking theophylline (used to relieve airway constrictions). • If you are taking ritonavir (used to treat HIV). How to take Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride Adults and children aged 12 and above: 5 mg (one tablet or two teaspoons [10 ml] of oral solution) once daily in the evening. Dose adjustment may be necessary for patients with impaired kidney function. Children aged 6 to 11 years: 2.5 mg (half a tablet or one teaspoon [5 ml] of oral solution) once daily in the evening. Do not exceed 2.5 mg daily. Do not give this medicine to children under 6 years old. • Take tablets or oral solution with or without food. • Take the tablet with a full glass of water. • Take the medicine at the same time every day. Storage of Lefosetirizine dihydrochloride • Store tablets and oral solution at 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. • Keep the medicine out of reach of children and pets. • Do not use the medicine after the expiration date printed on the package. • Keep the medicine in its original container to protect it from moisture and light. • Do not use damaged pills. • Do not dispose of medicines in wastewater or household waste.