Levocetirizine

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Levocetirizine

Levocetirizine (pronounced: levo-se-ti-ri-zeen) is a third-generation non-sedative antihistamine, which is used for the treatment of allergies such as hay fever and urticaria. It is derived from the second-generation antihistamine cetirizine. Chemically, levocetirizine is the active enantiomer of cetirizine. It is the L-enantiomer of the cetirizine racemate.

Etymology

The term "Levocetirizine" is derived from its parent drug, cetirizine. The prefix "levo-" is from the Latin "laevus" meaning "on the left side", referring to the specific stereoisomer used in this drug. The "-cetirizine" part of the name is a combination of its chemical structure and its classification as an antihistamine.

Usage

Levocetirizine is primarily used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis (both seasonal and perennial), urticaria (hives), and other skin allergies. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

Related Terms

  • Antihistamine: A type of medicine that blocks the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction.
  • Cetirizine: A second-generation antihistamine used in the treatment of allergies, hay fever, angioedema, and urticaria.
  • Histamine: A compound that is released by cells in response to injury and in allergic and inflammatory reactions, causing contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of capillaries.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: An allergic response to specific allergens, it can be seasonal (hay fever) or happen all year-round.
  • Urticaria: A condition characterized by the development of itchy, raised white patches on the skin surrounded by an area of red inflammation.

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