Product Overview
- Brand: Xyzal (manufactured by Sanofi)
- Product Type: Pediatric oral antihistamine (liquid)
- Active Ingredient: Levocetirizine dihydrochloride 2.5 mg per 5 mL
- Flavor: Bubble Gum
- Form: Oral liquid solution
- Volume: 5 fl. oz (150 mL)
- Age Range: Children 2 years and older
- Over-the-Counter: Yes
- Dosage: Once daily in the evening
Specifications & Ingredient Profile
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Levocetirizine dihydrochloride 2.5 mg / 5 mL |
| Drug Class | Second-generation antihistamine (H1 receptor blocker) |
| Administration Route | Oral |
| Duration of Action | Up to 24 hours |
| Flavor | Bubble Gum (child-friendly) |
| Form | Liquid suspension |
| Volume per Bottle | 5 fl. oz (150 mL) |
| Free From | Dyes, alcohol, sugar, and gluten |
| Child-Safe Cap | Yes |
| Use Frequency | Once daily |
| Approved Ages | 2 years and older |
Formulation & Mechanism of Action
Levocetirizine dihydrochloride is the R-enantiomer of cetirizine, which means it’s the pharmacologically active component that delivers the therapeutic effect of the popular allergy medication Zyrtec. By isolating this enantiomer, Xyzal delivers more targeted relief with potentially fewer side effects and lower sedation risk.
It works by selectively inhibiting peripheral H1 histamine receptors, which are responsible for the allergic response. Because it’s a second-generation antihistamine, it is designed to minimize central nervous system penetration, reducing drowsiness compared to first-generation options like diphenhydramine.
Performance & Clinical Effectiveness
Xyzal’s Children’s formula is designed to address a wide range of allergy symptoms, including:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy nose or throat
Performance in children has shown excellent symptom control in both seasonal and year-round (perennial) allergic rhinitis cases. Levocetirizine is known to have a rapid onset of action, often within 1 hour, with peak effect in 2 to 3 hours and consistent relief lasting a full 24 hours.
Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing nasal and ocular symptoms, and it often performs better in symptom duration and consistency compared to some other over-the-counter antihistamines.
Taste and Tolerability
The bubble gum flavor is specifically designed to appeal to children and has generally favorable reviews from both kids and parents for palatability. The liquid formulation makes it easier to administer than chewables or tablets, particularly for children under 6.
Xyzal is also free from alcohol, dyes, and sugar, which makes it suitable for children with sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
Pros
- Clinically proven 24-hour allergy relief with once-daily dosing
- Faster onset compared to loratadine-based medications
- Non-drowsy in most users, especially when taken at night as directed
- Palatable bubble gum flavor increases compliance in children
- Dye-free, alcohol-free, sugar-free, and gluten-free formula
- Suitable for children as young as 2 years old
- Long-standing safety data and FDA approval
Cons
- Can still cause mild drowsiness in some children, especially younger ones
- Nighttime dosing required, which may be less convenient for some schedules
- Pricier compared to generic antihistamines or older formulations
- Not intended for children under 2 without physician supervision
- Bottle size (5 oz) may not last long for regular, daily users
Best Use Case Scenarios
- Children with seasonal allergic rhinitis (pollen, grass, ragweed)
- Children with perennial allergies (dust mites, pet dander)
- Families seeking a once-daily, child-friendly solution
- Situations where liquid administration is preferred over chewables or pills
- Children who require symptom coverage throughout the school day and night
Comparison with Alternatives
Compared to Children’s Claritin (loratadine), Xyzal often offers faster onset and more potent relief, especially in moderate to severe allergy cases. Versus Children’s Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Xyzal causes significantly less sedation, making it safer for school use or daily functioning.
Levocetirizine is also generally better tolerated long-term than first-generation antihistamines and has less cognitive impairment potential.
Verdict
Xyzal Children’s 24 Hour Allergy Relief is a premium choice for pediatric allergy management. Its use of levocetirizine offers a potent balance of effectiveness, safety, and convenience. While it may be more expensive than generic alternatives, it is particularly valuable for children with consistent or more severe allergy symptoms and for parents who value ease of administration and all-day protection.