Normal Dosage for Xyzal (Levocetirizine)
For adults and children 12 to 64 years of age, the normal dose of Xyzal (levocetirizine) is 5 mg (1 tablet) once daily in the evening. 1
Adult Dosing
- Adults aged 12 to 64 years should take 5 mg (1 tablet) once daily in the evening 1
- For less severe symptoms, a reduced dose of 2.5 mg (½ tablet) once daily in the evening may be appropriate 1
- Adults 65 years and older should consult with a doctor before taking Xyzal 1
- Do not exceed 5 mg (1 tablet) in a 24-hour period 1
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 6 to 11 years of age should take 2.5 mg (½ tablet) once daily in the evening 1
- Do not exceed 2.5 mg (½ tablet) in a 24-hour period for children 6 to 11 years 1
- Xyzal is not recommended for children under 6 years of age 1
Special Populations
- Patients with kidney disease should not use Xyzal 1
- Evening administration is preferred to minimize daytime somnolence 1
Clinical Efficacy
- Levocetirizine has demonstrated significant efficacy in treating allergic rhinitis symptoms, with improvements seen as early as the first week of treatment 2
- Studies show levocetirizine provides an 86% improvement in total symptom scores over the first week of treatment compared to placebo 3
- Levocetirizine has shown effectiveness in relieving nasal congestion, which is uncommon for most antihistamines 3
Safety Considerations
- The incidence of adverse events with levocetirizine at recommended doses is similar to placebo 3
- Sedation may occur with levocetirizine, though it is generally less sedating than first-generation antihistamines 4
- Higher doses (10 mg) have been studied but may cause increased sedation compared to standard dosing 5
Quality of Life Impact
- Long-term treatment with levocetirizine 5 mg has been shown to significantly improve health-related quality of life in patients with persistent allergic rhinitis 6
- Improvements in quality of life have been demonstrated in both adults and children with seasonal allergic rhinitis 7, 6
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Exceeding the recommended daily dose may increase the risk of adverse effects without providing additional therapeutic benefit 1
- Taking the medication in the morning rather than evening may increase the impact of any sedative effects during daytime activities 1
- Using in patients with kidney disease is contraindicated 1
- Not adjusting the dose for children 6-11 years (they require half the adult dose) 1