Alertus A Syrup: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe rash or blistering of the skin
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain
- Seizures or convulsions
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is alertus a syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination syrup containing levocetirizine (an antihistamine) and zinc gluconate (a mineral supplement). It is used to treat allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and itching. It works by blocking histamine and supporting immune function. The usual adult dose is 5 mL once daily, but the dose must be individualized by a doctor.
- Generic Name: Levocetirizine (2.5mg) + Zinc Gluconate (7.5mg)
- Manufacturer: Megha Healthcare Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 alertus a syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी से होने वाले लक्षणों जैसे छींक आना, नाक बहना, आँखों में खुजली और त्वचा पर खुजली के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। इसमें लेवोसेटिरिज़िन नामक एंटीहिस्टामिन और जिंक ग्लूकोनेट होता है। यह शरीर में हिस्टामिन को रोककर एलर्जी के लक्षणों को कम करती है और जिंक प्रतिरक्षा प्रणाली को मजबूत बनाने में मदद करता है। यह दवा आमतौर पर एलर्जिक राइनाइटिस, पित्ती और खुजली के लिए दी जाती है। इसका सेवन डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में हल्की नींद आना, मुँह सूखना, सिरदर्द, थकान और पेट में असहजता शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, जैसे चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन, साँस लेने में कठिनाई हो सकती है। ऐसा होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपने आप मात्रा न बढ़ाएँ। दवा लेने के बाद नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे नींद और बढ़ सकती है। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं या कोई अन्य दवा ले रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। दवा को बच्चों की पहुँच से दूर रखें और सूखी, ठंडी जगह पर रखें।
💊 alertus a syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and nasal congestion caused by seasonal or year-round allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Chronic urticaria","description":"Reduces itching and hives associated with chronic idiopathic urticaria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"Helps reduce eye itching, redness, and tearing due to allergies.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Itching due to other causes","description":"May be used to relieve itching associated with insect bites, contact dermatitis, or other allergic skin conditions.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Supportive care in viral upper respiratory infections","description":"Zinc gluconate may help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms when started early.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Adjunct in acute diarrhea in children","description":"Zinc supplementation is sometimes used off-label to reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea, especially in areas where zinc deficiency is common.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Common cold symptom relief","description":"Levocetirizine may be used off-label to reduce runny nose and sneezing associated with the common cold, although evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis
Also treats: Chronic urticaria, Allergic conjunctivitis, Atopic dermatitis, Insect bite allergy
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Levocetirizine (2.5mg) + Zinc Gluconate (7.5mg) |
| Brand Name | alertus a syrup |
| Manufacturer | Megha Healthcare Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Levocetirizine is the active enantiomer of cetirizine and acts as a selective antagonist at peripheral histamine H1 receptors. By blocking histamine binding, it prevents the cascade of allergic symptoms such as vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, itching, and mucus secretion. Zinc gluconate provides elemental zinc, which is a cofactor for over 300 enzymes and supports immune cell function, protein synthesis, and wound healing. Zinc may also inhibit viral replication and reduce the release of inflammatory mediators in the upper respiratory tract.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take alertus a syrup
Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains levocetirizine 2.5 mg and zinc gluconate 7.5 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 mL (containing levocetirizine 2.5 mg and zinc gluconate 7.5 mg) once daily, preferably in the evening. However, the dose and frequency must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to treatment. Do not self-adjust the dose. For allergic rhinitis or urticaria, the duration of treatment depends on symptom control and may range from a few days to several weeks. Always follow your doctor's prescription. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness and dry mouth. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, the dose of levocetirizine should be reduced. For moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-50 mL/min), the dose may be reduced to 2.5 mg once daily. For severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 10-30 mL/min), the dose may be reduced to 2.5 mg every other day. For creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min, use is not recommended. Zinc gluconate does not require dose adjustment in renal impairment, but high doses should be avoided. Consult a nephrologist or your doctor for personalized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | No dose adjustment is required for levocetirizine in patients with hepatic impairment. However, caution is advised in patients with both hepatic and renal impairment. Zinc gluconate does not require dose adjustment in liver disease. Consult your doctor for guidance. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose of levocetirizine is 5 mg (which corresponds to 10 mL of this syrup). The maximum daily dose of zinc gluconate should not exceed 50 mg of elemental zinc unless prescribed by a doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of alertus a syrup
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Major | |
| Opioids | Major | |
| Theophylline | Moderate | |
| Ritonavir | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Minor | |
| Ketoconazole | Minor | |
| High-fiber diet | Minor | |
| Iron supplements | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol)
- Theophylline
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Ritonavir
- Anticholinergic drugs
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol can increase the drowsiness and impair the psychomotor performance caused by this medicine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to levocetirizine, zinc gluconate, or any component of the formulation","Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min)","Children under 6 months of age (for levocetirizine)","Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency (due to sorbitol content, if present)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants.","Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.","Use with caution in patients with epilepsy or a history of seizures.","Do not exceed the recommended dose.","Keep out of reach of children.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.","Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking.","Zinc supplements can interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, quinolones); separate doses by at least 2 hours."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Levocetirizine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and may cause drowsiness in the nursing infant. Zinc is a normal component of breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine may cause drowsiness, agitation, restlessness, and gastrointestinal upset. In severe cases, it may lead to seizures or respiratory depression. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote for levocetirizine. Zinc overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain; long-term excessive zinc intake can lead to copper deficiency and anemia.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose without medical advice. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness and impair your alertness. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially sedatives, pain relievers, or antidepressants. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not use it after the expiry date. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose. If symptoms persist for more than seven days or worsen, consult your doctor.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. The dose may need adjustment based on kidney function. Regular monitoring of renal function is advised. Consult a doctor for personalized dosing.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Levocetirizine is generally considered safe in pregnancy, but the benefits and risks should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Zinc supplementation at recommended doses is also considered safe.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with anesthetic agents and cause excessive drowsiness. Your doctor may advise you to stop it before surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may cause dry mouth, which can affect dental health. Also, if you are taking other medications, interactions may occur.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require full alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. If you feel dizzy or sleepy, do not exercise.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause mild drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is best to avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. If your work requires high alertness, discuss with your doctor about timing the dose to minimize impact. Most people can continue their daily activities with caution.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately. If you have been taking it for a long time, your doctor may advise tapering the dose to avoid rebound symptoms.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine should be under medical supervision. Prolonged use of levocetirizine may lead to tolerance or reduced effectiveness. Long-term zinc supplementation can cause copper deficiency, anemia, and altered immune function if taken in high doses. Regular monitoring of renal function and zinc levels may be advised if used for extended periods. Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Identifying and avoiding triggers such as pollen, dust, or certain foods can reduce the need for medication.
Evidence: Well-establishedRinsing the nasal passages with saline can help relieve congestion and remove allergens.
Evidence: ModerateAllergy shots or sublingual tablets can desensitize the immune system over time.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interfere with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for allergy testing, inform your doctor as antihistamines can suppress skin test reactions. You may need to stop this medicine a few days before the test.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to show it at customs. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking your dose at the same interval as prescribed; consult your doctor if you need to adjust the timing. Keep enough supply for your entire trip and carry it in your hand luggage if possible.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts relieving allergic symptoms within 1 hour after taking it. The full effect may take a few days of regular use.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, take it with a meal or snack.
A: Common side effects include mild drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, and fatigue. These usually improve with continued use.
A: Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate use in children.
A: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.
A: Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
A: It is advisable to avoid alcohol because it can increase drowsiness and impair your alertness.
A: This medicine may cause mild drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure allergies permanently.
Fact: This medicine provides symptomatic relief but does not cure the underlying allergy. Allergen avoidance and other treatments may be needed. - Myth: It is safe to take extra doses for faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the prescribed dose can increase the risk of side effects and does not provide faster relief. - Myth: Zinc in this medicine can prevent all colds.
Fact: Zinc may reduce the duration of colds if taken early, but it does not prevent all colds.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Levocetirizine 2.5 mg + Zinc Gluconate 7.5 mg syrup