Xyzal is the trade name for the drug, levocetirizine, an oral antihistamine prescribed for allergy-related symptoms such as itching, watery eyes and sneezing. It works by lowering levels of the chemical, histamine, in the body. According to Drugs.com, it may be used for year-round allergies that affect adults and children older than 6 months, and seasonal allergies in adults and children older than 2. There are several alternatives to Xyzal.
Phenindamine
Phenindamine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the action of histamine. It helps ease allergy symptoms including itching, runny nose, hives and watery eyes. Phenindamine may have a sedating effect on some people. Care should be taken when driving or operating machinery. It may not be suitable for people with conditions including glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, hypertension and asthma. Treatment-related side effects may include fatigue, headache and dry mouth.
Fexofenadine
Fexofenadine eases hay fever symptoms in children older than 2 and adults. It is also used to treat urticaria in adults and children older than 6 months. It is a prescription-only medicine and is available as a liquid or a tablet for oral administration. It is usually taken once daily. MedlinePlus notes that taking fexofenadine with fruit juice may lower its effectiveness. Side effects may include dizziness, cough and headache.
Desloratadine
Desloratadine provides relief from symptoms of perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis. It is available as a tablet, a syrup and as an orally-disintegrating tablet. Desloratadine is not suitable for people allergic to loratadine, a similar drug. It may not be suitable for people who have kidney or liver disease. Desloratadine orally-disintegrating tablets may contain phenylalanine so should not be used by patients with phenylketonuria. Side effects may include muscle pain, fatigue and nausea.
