Ziacet-5 Tablet
Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride 5 mg
| Composition | Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride 5 mg |
|---|---|
| Packing | 10x10 Alu/Alu |
| MRP | ₹ 300 |
| Dosage Form | Tablets |
About Ziacet-5 Tablet
Ziacet-5 Tablet contains Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride 5 mg, a highly effective second-generation antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms. It is the active R-enantiomer of Cetirizine and offers potent, long-lasting relief from sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itchy skin with minimal drowsiness.
Ziacet-5 is widely prescribed for seasonal and year-round allergic conditions. Its once-daily dosing, rapid onset, and low sedation profile make it a preferred choice for adults and older children seeking dependable allergy control.
Uses of Ziacet-5 Tablet
This medicine is commonly used for:
- Relieving sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion due to allergies
- Treating itchy, watery, or red eyes caused by hay fever
- Managing skin allergies such as urticaria (hives) and itching
- Providing relief from seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis
- Alleviating symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria
Indications
Levocetirizine 5 mg is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of allergic rhinitis (seasonal and perennial) and chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children above 6 years of age. It is effective in controlling histamine-mediated symptoms including rhinorrhoea, nasal pruritus, sneezing, lacrimation, and cutaneous pruritus.
How Ziacet-5 Tablet Works
Levocetirizine works by blocking histamine receptors in the body. When you are exposed to an allergen, your body releases histamine, a chemical that causes allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. By blocking where histamine acts, Ziacet-5 quickly calms these reactions, providing prompt and lasting relief.
Mechanism of Action
Levocetirizine is the pharmacologically active (R)-enantiomer of cetirizine and a selective, competitive antagonist of peripheral H1-histamine receptors. It demonstrates approximately twice the binding affinity for H1-receptors compared to cetirizine, with negligible anticholinergic and antiserotonergic activity. Due to its limited CNS penetration at therapeutic doses, sedation is significantly lower than first-generation antihistamines. Its long plasma half-life supports once-daily dosing with a duration of action exceeding 24 hours.
Key Benefits
- Fast-acting relief from allergy symptoms, often within one hour of dosing
- Once-daily dosing offers sustained 24-hour allergy control
- Lower risk of drowsiness compared to older antihistamines, making it suitable for daytime use
- Effective for both respiratory and skin allergy symptoms
Did You Know?
Levocetirizine is the purified active half (R-enantiomer) of cetirizine. By using only the active form, the same allergy-relieving benefit can be achieved at half the total chemical dose, which contributes to its cleaner side-effect profile.
When & How to Take
Ziacet-5 is typically taken once daily, with or without food, usually in the evening to minimise any mild sedation. Take it at the same time each day as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Always follow the dosage and schedule advised by your doctor — this is general guidance only.
Possible Side Effects
Ziacet-5 is generally well tolerated. Some people may experience mild drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, or fatigue. These effects are usually mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts. Tell your doctor if any side effect is severe or persistent.
Precautions & Safety
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as mild drowsiness is possible
- Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, as dose adjustment may be needed
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may increase drowsiness
- Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including sedatives and tranquillisers
- Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Myths vs Facts
All antihistamines make you very sleepy.
Older (first-generation) antihistamines like chlorpheniramine are well known for causing strong sedation. Levocetirizine in Ziacet-5 is a modern, second-generation antihistamine with much lower sedation at standard doses, making it suitable for use during the day for most people.
Antihistamines cure allergies.
Antihistamines like Ziacet-5 relieve allergy symptoms by blocking histamine's effects, but they do not cure the underlying allergy or sensitivity. Long-term allergy management may require additional strategies discussed with your doctor.
