Levocetirizine: Top Brands Compared

If you’re suffering from seasonal allergies, chronic sneezing, itchy eyes, or hives, you’ve probably heard of antihistamines like Claritin and Zyrtec. But one antihistamine that has become increasingly popular is Levocetirizine - known for its strong allergy relief and relatively low sedation risk.

In this blog, we’ll break down:

• What levocetirizine is and how it works
• Key brand options (including Xyzal and generics)
• How levocetirizine compares to other antihistamines
• Side effects, dosing, and safety
• Tips to choose the best brand for you
• What Is Levocetirizine?

Levocetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms such as:

• Sneezing
• Runny or itchy nose
• Watery, itchy eyes
• Itchy throat
• Hives (chronic idiopathic urticaria)

It works by blocking histamine H1 receptors, which are responsible for many classic allergy symptoms. Unlike older antihistamines like diphenhydramine, levocetirizine tends to cause less drowsiness, because it is more selective and less likely to cross into the brain.

How Levocetirizine Works

When your immune system misidentifies harmless particles (like pollen or pet dander) as threats, it releases histamine — the chemical that causes swelling, itching, and other symptoms.

Levocetirizine blocks histamine from binding to receptors in your tissues, helping reduce classical allergy symptoms like: nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, skin itch and rashes. It usually starts working within about 1 hour and is designed for once-a-day relief.

Top Levocetirizine Brands (and How They Compare)

Some levocetirizine products are branded, others are generics or store-brand equivalents. The active ingredient — levocetirizine — is the same in all of them, but price, packaging, and availability can vary dramatically.

1. Xyzal (Xyzal Allergy 24HR)

• Most widely known brand
• Available in tablet and oral solution form
• Approved OTC in the U.S. for seasonal and year-round allergy relief
• Works once daily, often with less sedation than cetirizine

This is the best option for folks who want a well-known, trusted brand with consistent performance.

2. Generic Levocetirizine

• Same active ingredient as Xyzal
• Usually significantly cheaper
• Available under multiple labels at pharmacies and stores
• May say “compare to Xyzal Allergy 24HR” on packaging
• This option is best for  people who want the same antihistamine effects at a lower cost.

3. International Brand Variants

Depending on where you live, levocetirizine may be sold under local brand names, including:

• Xazal (Spain)
• Levobert (India)
• Vozet (India)
• Zilola / Histisynt (Hungary)
• Hhlevo, Levocet, Lecope, Lcz (India / Asia)

These brands all contain the same active ingredient and provide similar allergy relief.

4. Store/Pharmacy Brands

Some regional or store-brand versions using levocetirizine are available, often labeled as “compare to Xyzal.” These are best for budget-conscious shoppers or those who want simple OTC allergy relief.

Levocetirizine vs Other Antihistamines

Takeaways:

• Levocetirizine provides once-daily relief with low sedation
• Works well for most people with seasonal allergies or hives
• Loratadine or fexofenadine may be gentler for people sensitive to mild drowsiness

Side Effects & Safety

Common Side Effects

• Sleepiness (lower risk than some older antihistamines)
• Dry mouth
• Mild cough or diarrhea
  

Important Safety Notes

• Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease or other serious conditions
• Pregnant or breastfeeding people should consult a doctor before use
• Rarely, severe itching can occur when stopping long-term antihistamines

Dosage Basics

Typical dosing for levocetirizine:

• Adults & children 6 years and up: 5 mg once daily (tablet or liquid)
• Children under 6: Lower doses (1.25–2.5 mg) may be used with doctor guidance
• Always follow the instructions on the package or your doctor’s advice.

How to Choose the Best Levocetirizine Brand

Consider:

• Price: Generics usually cost less
• Form: Liquid (for kids) vs tablet
• Availability: OTC vs prescription brands
• Tolerance: Some people respond slightly differently to branded vs generic formulations

If you’re curious about non-drug options to manage allergens in your environment, before they enter your body, check out our article here.

Final Takeaway

Levocetirizine is a reliable second-generation antihistamine for allergy relief. Whether you choose Xyzal, a generic, or an international brand, the active ingredient is the same. Your choice depends on cost, form, and personal preference—but effectiveness remains consistent.

References

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Histamine_H1_receptor 
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
• https://pacagen.com/