Okacet Tablet falls within the category of medications known as antihistamines. It contains Levocetirizine (5mg). It is used to manage symptoms linked to seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), perennial allergic rhinitis (year-round allergies), and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). This tablet effectively eases symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes caused by allergies. Notably, Okacet Tablet benefits, up to 24 hours, with just one daily dose. This characteristic proves particularly advantageous for individuals experiencing severe allergy symptoms.
What is the Okacet Tablet used for?
Okacet Tablet is used in the following conditions:
- Chronic idiopathic urticaria: This tablet is employed to manage chronic idiopathic urticaria, a skin condition characterised by hives (urticaria) of unknown cause that persist for more than six weeks. It helps alleviate symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling associated with hives.
- Perennial allergic rhinitis: Okacet Tablet effectively treats perennial allergic rhinitis, a year-round condition triggered by allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or mould. It helps relieve symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and nasal itching.
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever: This tablet proves beneficial in managing symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or runny nose, and watery eyes due to allergens like pollen.
How does the Okacet Tablet work?
Okacet Tablet contains Levocetirizine, an antihistamine. Okacet Tablet works by blocking the action of histamine, a natural substance in the body that causes allergy symptoms. Histamine is released during an allergic reaction and leads to symptoms like itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. Levocetirizine prevents histamine from binding to its receptors, reducing or preventing these allergy symptoms.
How to take an Okacet Tablet?
Okacet Tablet can be taken with or without food. Take 1 tablet daily or as your doctor prescribes. The dosage may change based on individual factors such as the severity of the condition and response to treatment. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. You can also buy this tablet from an online medical store easily with a complimentary doctor consultation. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
What are the common side effects of taking an Okacet Tablet?
The common side effects of Okacet Tablet include:
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Dry Mouth
- Headache
Since this tablet may cause fatigue and drowsiness, it is recommended to avoid any attentive tasks after taking this tablet.
How to manage drowsiness after taking an Okacet Tablet?
Consider taking an Okacet Tablet in the evening or before bedtime, especially if drowsiness is a recurring issue. This may help minimise the impact on daily activities. Refrain from activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you understand how the medication affects you.
What happens if an excess of Okacet Tablets are taken at once?
If you exceed the prescribed dose of Okacet Tablets in a day, you may experience drowsiness, restlessness, and fatigue. In that case, do not delay seeking medical help, even if symptoms seem mild initially.
Is Okacet Tablet safe during pregnancy?
This tablet might be unsafe during pregnancy. It is advisable to consult with a doctor before using this medication during pregnancy. Although these medicines are easily available for purchase online, your doctor may suggest other safer alternatives for you to take during pregnancy..
What are the safety precautions when taking an Okacet Tablet?
- Use in children: Okacet Tablet is not meant to be used in children under 6 years of age. If your child is under 6, your doctor may recommend other alternatives.
- Use in older adults: Older adults with kidney dysfunction should cautiously use this medication. The dosage may need to be adjusted.
- Alcohol: It is recommended to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while using Okacet Tablet. Combining the medication with alcohol may increase the risk of drowsiness and impairment of cognitive functions.
- Breastfeeding: Okacet Tablet is not recommended during breastfeeding. It may pass to the infant through breast milk.
Medications to avoid: Certain medications may interact with Okacet Tablet, affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Inform the doctor if you are already taking antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, antiepileptics, sedatives, sleeping pills and asthma medications.
Who should not take the Okacet Tablet?
Patients with end-stage kidney disease should not take Okacet Tablet. Those who are unable to empty their bladder due to spinal cord injury or enlarged prostate should also exercise caution while taking this tablet.