Xyzal (levocetirizine) is an antihistamine, which is prescribed for allergies. It was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration in May 2007. Xyzal works by blocking histamines, natural substances in the body that produce symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or watering eyes, runny nose, hives or rashes and other allergy symptoms.
Fatigue/Drowsiness
According to the FDA, some of the most common side effects of Xyzal are drowsiness and fatigue. This may affect alertness in patients and impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. The use of alcohol or sedatives can increase this effect.
Cold Symptoms
Cold symptoms are another common side effect of Xyal. These effects may include sore throat, fever and cough. Symptoms may go away during treatment. If they continue or become worse, a doctor or pharmacist should be contacted.
Digestive Effects
Although less common, Xyzal may also cause stomach or digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to Xyzal are possible and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, swelling of the lips, face and tongue, difficulty breathing and tightness of the chest.
Infrequent/Rare Side Effects
Side effects which have been reported as infrequent with Xyzal include throat swelling and/or irritation, nosebleed, weight gain and dry mouth.
A number of rare but serious side effects have been reported with Xyzal. These include: blurred vision or other vision changes, hepatitis, seizures, trouble breathing, jaundice (which may be a sign of liver damage), muscle aches, pains and/or stiffness, dark-colored urine, swelling of the neck and voice alteration, pounding heart and feeling faint, ringing and/or buzzing in the ears. A doctor or pharmacist should be contacted immediately if any of these symptoms are noted.
Psychological Side Effects
Some psychological side effects have been noted with Xyzal, although these are also rare. They include confusion, nightmares, irritability, hallucinations, agressive behavior and suicidal thoughts. As with other severe side effects, these should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Side Effects in Children
Xyzal is approved by the FDA for children ages 1 year old and up. Although any adult side effects may also be found in children, the FDA reports the following as the most common in pediatric patients: fatigue and sleepiness, dry mouth, sore throat, fever, diarrhea, vomiting and ear infections.
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