Levokast Tab

LEVOKAST TAB by MANKIND PHARMA LTD.

LEVOKAST TAB is a combination medication manufactured by Mankind Pharma Ltd., designed to alleviate various allergic symptoms and related conditions.

Composition

Each film-coated LEVOKAST TAB typically contains:

• Levocetirizine Hydrochloride: 5 mg
• Montelukast Sodium equivalent to Montelukast: 10 mg

Uses

LEVOKAST TAB is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of symptoms associated with:

• Allergic Rhinitis: This includes seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis, providing relief from symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
• Allergic Skin Conditions: Effective in treating conditions like chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives), which manifests as itchy, raised red bumps or welts on the skin.
• Rhinitis Associated with Asthma: It helps reduce inflammation in the airways and is often used as part of long-term management for asthma symptoms triggered by allergies. It is not intended for the relief of acute asthma attacks.

Dosage and Administration

The typical dosage for adults and children above 6 years old is one tablet daily, or as advised by a healthcare professional. LEVOKAST TAB can be taken with or without food, preferably at a fixed time each day. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by the doctor, even if symptoms improve.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
• Skin rash
• Fever
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Increased liver enzymes
• Psychiatric symptoms like anxiety, aggression, irritability, lack of sleep, or, rarely, suicidal thoughts. If these occur, inform a doctor immediately.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Levocetirizine, Montelukast, Cetirizine, or any other components of the medicine.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of LEVOKAST TAB during pregnancy is not fully established; use only after consulting a doctor. It is generally considered unsafe during breastfeeding as Levocetirizine passes into human milk and may harm the baby.
• Driving and Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness; therefore, caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and impair alertness.
• Kidney and Liver Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease or severe liver disease; it is contraindicated in severe kidney impairment.
• Other Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have psychiatric illness, a genetic disorder called phenylketonuria, or difficulty emptying the bladder.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, as LEVOKAST TAB may interact with medicines for psychotic disorders, phenytoin, ritonavir, corticosteroids, and aspirin.
• Allergy Tests: Stop taking LEVOKAST TAB at least three days before an allergy test, as it can affect the test results.

Storage

Store LEVOKAST TAB below 30°C. Keep it in a dry place, protected from light and moisture, and out of the reach of children.

LEVOKAST TAB, manufactured by Mankind Pharma Ltd., is a combination medication used to treat various allergic conditions and manage asthma symptoms. It contains two active ingredients: Levocetirizine and Montelukast.

Here are some frequently asked questions about LEVOKAST TAB:

What is LEVOKAST TAB used for?

LEVOKAST TAB is primarily used to treat allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), seasonal and perennial allergies, and allergic skin conditions like urticaria (hives). It helps alleviate symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, congestion, itching, and difficulty breathing. It is also used in the management and prevention of asthma symptoms and exercise-induced bronchospasm.

How does LEVOKAST TAB work?

LEVOKAST TAB contains Levocetirizine and Montelukast, which work through different mechanisms to provide relief. Levocetirizine is a non-sedative antihistamine that blocks the action of histamine, a chemical responsible for allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itching. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks chemical messengers called leukotrienes, which are involved in inflammation and bronchoconstriction (narrowing of airways), thereby reducing swelling in the airways and nose.

What is the usual dosage of LEVOKAST TAB?

The usual dosage for adults is one tablet once daily, or as advised by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food. The dosage is based on the severity of your condition and your response to the medication. It's important to adhere to the prescribed dosage and not exceed it without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of LEVOKAST TAB?

Common side effects can include drowsiness, sleepiness, fatigue, dry mouth, headache, sore throat, abdominal pain, nausea, and skin rash. Some individuals may experience dizziness or a blocked nose. More serious, though less common, side effects include neuropsychiatric events such as anxiety, aggression, irritability, unusual dreams, depression, and in rare cases, suicidal thoughts; these should be reported to your doctor immediately.

Is LEVOKAST TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

LEVOKAST TAB should be used with caution during pregnancy, and it is best to consult your doctor before taking this medicine. While animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects, there are limited human studies. It is considered unsafe to use during breastfeeding, as Levocetirizine passes into breast milk and can cause drowsiness in the infant.

Can LEVOKAST TAB be taken with other medications?

LEVOKAST TAB can interact with other medications. Levocetirizine may enhance the sedative effects of Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants (such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and sedatives). Montelukast may interact with medicines metabolized by the Cytochrome P-450 CYP2C8 enzyme. Other interactions include decreased montelukast concentrations with phenobarbital, phenytoin, or rifampicin, and altered cetirizine levels with theophylline or ritonavir. Always inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using LEVOKAST TAB?

You should avoid consuming alcohol while taking LEVOKAST TAB, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Due to potential drowsiness or dizziness, it is advised to be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. This medication is not effective for treating acute asthma attacks; use appropriate rescue medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Caution is advised in patients with severe kidney or liver impairment. It is also recommended to stop taking LEVOKAST TAB at least three days before an allergy test, as it can affect the test results.

What happens if a dose of LEVOKAST TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose of LEVOKAST TAB, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should LEVOKAST TAB be stored?

LEVOKAST TAB should be stored in a cool, dry place at a temperature below 30°C. Keep the medicine away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Always ensure it is kept out of reach of children and pets, and check the expiration date before use.