Allergy-relief products

Levocetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine used to treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic hives (by prescription only). Sold under the brand name Xyzal, it is taken orally and is less likely to cause drowsiness than first generation antihistamines.¹

Yes, levocetirizine is an antihistamine. It works by blocking histamine H1 receptors, which are responsible for triggering allergy symptoms. By doing so, it helps reduce the typical signs of allergic rhinitis or hay fever, like sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and itchy nose and throat.¹

Levocetirizine belongs to a class of medications known as antihistamines. It is used to relieve the symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergies, as well as hives. 

After taking levocetirizine, drowsiness may occur. In clinical studies where Xyzal® was administered at night, 6% of users experienced drowsiness. Xyzal® should be taken at night, and users should be careful if driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery.

Both cetirizine (the active ingredient in Zyrtec) and levocetirizine (the active ingredient in Xyzal) are effective second-generation antihistamines used for allergy symptoms. Levocetirizine is the active enantiomer form of cetirizine, developed to provide similar benefits in a pill nearly half the size.³

It is important to follow the recommended dosage for levocetirizine, which is typically taken once daily in the evening.

• Adults and children 12 years and older: The standard dose is one 5 mg tablet per day. For less severe symptoms, half a tablet (2.5 mg) may be sufficient. Do not exceed 5 mg in 24 hours.
• Children 6 to 11 years old: The recommended dose is half a tablet (2.5 mg) or 5mL liquid (2.5 mg) once daily. Do not exceed 2.5 mg in 24 hours.⁴

Levocetirizine is used to relieve allergy symptoms including  sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, and itchy nose and throat.1It is also available by prescription to relieve hives and itching due to hives.

Always follow the dosage instructions on the package, unless your doctor has advised you otherwise.  Xyzal® allergy medication should be taken in the evening.

The dosage is as follows:

• Adults (12–64 years): 5 mg once daily in the evening. 2.5 mg once daily in the evening may be appropriate for less severe symptoms.
• Children (6–11 years): 2.5 mg once daily in the evening.
• Children under 6 years: do not use. Xyzal Liquid dosing is available for children age 2-6.
• Adults 65+: ask a doctor
• Consumers with kidney disease: do not use⁴

As with all medication, follow the instructions on the package and use as directed. Xyzal® allergy medication should be taken in the evening. It will work through the night and the whole next day to give you 24h allergy relief.  See above for dosage instructions.

Yes. Xyzal® is safe to use every day in the evening. Use only as directed and please read the product label for complete dosing instructions and warnings.

Levocetirizine typically starts working in as little as 45 minutes, providing quick and noticeable relief from allergy symptoms. Its effects are designed to last for a full 24 hours, offering sustained symptom relief from a single daily dose.⁴

It is not recommended to take levocetirizine while breast-feeding.  If pregnant, ask a healthcare professional before use.