DEFENSE THREAT REDUCTION AGENCY. SBIR FY10.1 Proposal Submission. The mission of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is to safeguard the United States. and its allies from weapons of mass destruction (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield. explosives) by providing capabilities to reduce, eliminate and counter the threat and mitigate its effects.
Levocetirizine is used to relieve runny nose; sneezing; and redness, itching, and tearing of the eyes caused by hay fever, seasonal allergies, and allergies to other substances such as dust mites, animal dander, and mold. It is also used to treat symptoms of hives, including itching and rash. Levocetirizine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Mechanism of Action. Levocetirizine, the active enantiomer of cetirizine, is an anti histamine; its principal effects are mediated via selective inhibition of H1 receptors. The antihistaminic activity of levocetirizine has been documented in a variety of animal and human models. In vitro binding studies revealed that levocetirizine has an affinity for the human H1-receptor 2-fold higher than that of cetirizine (Ki = 3 nmol/L vs. 6 nmol/L, respectively).