Oral Antihistamines · Second-generation oral antihistamine
Levocetirizine (Xyzal): Generic Allergy Pills + Higher-Dose Rx Options
Brand names: Xyzal
Last reviewed June 8, 2026 · Medically reviewed by AllergyCenter
Get Levocetirizine
Buy generic — OTC
Generic Levocetirizine 5 mg — 30 tablets
30 tablets (1-month supply)
- Same active ingredient as the brand
- Free shipping (3–5 business days)
- No prescription needed
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Need a prescription?
Allergist Review — $49
For prescription strengths, combination products, or higher doses.
- Up-dosed levocetirizine for chronic urticaria
- Switch to hydroxyzine for severe itch or sleep issues
- Escalation to biologics (Xolair) for refractory chronic hives
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Levocetirizine is the active enantiomer of cetirizine — the same active ingredient as Zyrtec, but in a refined form that works at half the dose. It's sold OTC as Xyzal and as generic levocetirizine.
Standard dose is 5 mg once daily, usually taken in the evening. Some patients with chronic hives or stubborn allergic rhinitis find levocetirizine works better than other antihistamines, but it's slightly more sedating than fexofenadine.
Quick Facts
- Generic name
- Levocetirizine dihydrochloride
- Brand names
- Xyzal
- Drug class
- Second-generation H1 antihistamine
- Form
- Tablet, liquid
- OTC or Rx
- OTC
- Typical adult dose
- 5 mg once daily in the evening
- Age range
- 2+ (dose by age)
- Onset of action
- ~1 hour
TL;DR — At a Glance
- ·Levocetirizine (Xyzal) is a 5 mg once-daily antihistamine.
- ·Same active ingredient as Zyrtec but in a refined form — half the dose, similar effect.
- ·Often taken in the evening because of mild drowsiness in some people.
- ·Sometimes prescribed up-dose for chronic urticaria under allergist guidance.
- ·Common side effects: mild drowsiness, dry mouth.
Need a stronger dose or refill?
For chronic hives that don’t respond to standard levocetirizine, an allergist can prescribe higher doses or escalate to other treatments like Xolair.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a licensed healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without consulting a qualified provider.