From the FDA Drug Label
DIRECTIONS ... children 6 to 11 years of age take ½ tablet (2.5 mg) once daily in the evening do not take more than ½ tablet (2.5 mg) in 24 hours DIRECTIONS ... children 12 to 64 years of age take 1 tablet (5 mg) once daily in the evening DIRECTIONS ... children under 6 years of age do not use
The recommended dosage of Xyzal (levocetirizine) for pediatric patients is:
- 6 to 11 years of age: ½ tablet (2.5 mg) once daily in the evening, do not take more than ½ tablet (2.5 mg) in 24 hours
- 12 years of age and older: 1 tablet (5 mg) once daily in the evening, do not take more than 1 tablet (5 mg) in 24 hours
- Under 6 years of age: do not use 1
From the Research
The recommended dosage of Xyzal (levocetirizine) for pediatric patients varies by age, with children 6 months to 5 years old taking 1.25 mg (2.5 mL of oral solution) once daily in the evening, children 6-11 years old taking 2.5 mg (5 mL of oral solution or one 2.5 mg tablet) once daily in the evening, and adolescents 12 years and older following the adult dosage of 5 mg (10 mL of oral solution or one 5 mg tablet) once daily in the evening 2.
Key Considerations
- Dosage adjustments are necessary for children with impaired kidney function.
- Xyzal is an antihistamine that works by blocking histamine receptors, reducing allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- The evening administration is recommended because the medication may cause drowsiness.
- Parents should measure liquid doses carefully using the provided measuring device, and the medication can be taken with or without food.
- Treatment should continue only as long as exposure to the allergen persists, and parents should consult a healthcare provider before use in very young children.
Age-Specific Dosage
- Children 6 months to 5 years old: 1.25 mg (2.5 mL of oral solution) once daily in the evening
- Children 6-11 years old: 2.5 mg (5 mL of oral solution or one 2.5 mg tablet) once daily in the evening
- Adolescents 12 years and older: 5 mg (10 mL of oral solution or one 5 mg tablet) once daily in the evening
Important Notes
- The study by 2 provides the most relevant information on the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of levocetirizine in pediatric patients.
- Other studies, such as 3 and 4, provide additional information on the efficacy and safety of levocetirizine in pediatric patients, but are not directly relevant to the dosage recommendation.