Indications
Xyzal (Levocetirizine) is a prescription antihistamine commonly used to treat the symptoms of allergies and hay fever. It belongs to a class of drugs known as second-generation antihistamines and is effective in relieving the symptoms associated with seasonal allergies and year-round allergic rhinitis. Xyzal works by blocking histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction.
Levocetirizine may also be used to treat other conditions not listed in this medication guide. It is available in tablet form and can be taken by adults and children aged six months or older. Additionally, levocetirizine is used to treat allergies, hay fever, hives, and itching. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Uses and Dosage
XYZAL is available as a tablet and is taken by mouth with or without food, usually once a day in the evening. It is important to take the tablets at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of medication in your body. It may take up to 4 weeks to feel the full effects of XYZAL. It is important to take XYZAL every day as prescribed to get the most benefit from it.
The dosage of XYZAL is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate dose for you. Do not increase your dosage or take this medication more often than directed by your doctor. Doing so may increase your risk of side effects. It is important to take XYZAL as prescribed to get the most benefit from it. It may take up to 4 weeks to feel the full effects of XYZAL.
Tablets (by prescription)
- People 65 years and older: Ask your provider.
- People 18 to under 65 years old: The typical dose is 2.5 mg or 5 mg by mouth once per day in the evening. The dose depends on how severe your allergy symptoms are. The maximum dose is 5 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Children 6 to under 12 years old: The typical dose is 2.5 mg by mouth once per day in the evening. The maximum dose is 2.5 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Children younger than 6 years old: Ask your child's provider.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Using Levocetirizine Include:
- Cough
- Drowsiness/tiredness
- Dry mouth
- Ear infection
- Fever
- Nosebleed
- Sinus pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Weight gain.
Serious Side Effects of Using Levocetirizine Include:
- A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
- Fever
- Little or no urination
- Painful or difficult urination
- Signs of an ear infection--ear pain or full feeling, trouble hearing, drainage from the ear, fussiness in a child.
- Worsening allergy or urticarial symptoms
Form and Strength
Xyzal and its generic alternative form Levocetirizine are available in the following forms and strengths.
Xyzal: Tablet
- 5 mg
Levocetirizine: Tablet
- 5 mg
Caution
- Use caution with XYZAL in patients with risk factors for urinary retention (e.g., spinal cord injury, prostatic hyperplasia), as it may increase this risk. If urinary retention occurs, discontinue XYZAL.
- Warn patients against engaging in hazardous activities requiring alertness and coordination (e.g., operating machinery or driving) after taking XYZAL.
- Avoid concurrent use of XYZAL with alcohol or other CNS depressants, as further reductions in alertness and CNS performance may occur.
- Clinical trials have reported somnolence, fatigue, and asthenia in some patients on XYZAL.
- During pregnancy, XYZAL should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before use.
- This medication passes into breast milk and can affect a nursing infant. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
- Levocetirizine should not be taken if the patient has end-stage kidney disease or is on dialysis. It should not be taken by any child younger than 12 years old who has kidney disease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does levocetirizine take to work?
levocetirizine (Xyzal Allergy) worked to relieve allergy symptoms within 1 hour. In comparison, it took about 1.5 hours for people taking loratadine (Claritin) to feel their symptoms improving.
Can I use levocetirizine only when I need it?
Yes, you can take levocetirizine (Xyzal Allergy) only when you need it if you have allergy symptoms occasionally, but if you have allergy symptoms daily, taking it regularly according to the manufacturer's or your provider's instructions might give you the most relief from your allergies.
How should I take Xyzal?
Take Xyzal exactly as prescribed by your doctor. A child's dose of levocetirizine is based on the age of the child. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
What other drugs will affect Xyzal?
Using Xyzal with other drugs that make you drowsy can worsen this effect. Ask your doctor before using opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.
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