Xyzal

What is Xyzal?

Xyzal is a type of medicine which relieves allergy symptoms including runny nose, itchy eyes and nose, watery eyes and sneezing. It can also help with hives and nettle rash.

The treatment is an antiallergic medicine which has levocetirizine as its active ingredient. This is a type of medicine called an antihistamine, which works to prevent allergic reactions. There are two different types of Xyzal, a tablet or oral solution.

How does Xyzal work?

Xyzal blocks the action of something called histamine, a natural substance made by your body during allergic reactions. Sometimes this substance is overproduced when you experience allergic reactions, which results in unpleasant symptoms such as itchiness, blocked nose and rashes.

Histamine is typically formed in your body when it detects that there could be something harmful in the environment close to you. Blood vessels begin to expand and your skin turns red, as this chemical scrambles to protect the body.

If you’re allergic to dust, animal hair and pollen, your histamine response is a little more sensitive than usual. The body then mistakes these substances as a threat and you’ll get allergy symptoms.

This is where antihistamines come in. They’re especially helpful if you take them before coming into contact with an allergy trigger, to help minimise the severity of symptoms you may experience.

What doses of Xyzal are there?

Xyzal is available as a 2.5mg oral solution and as a 5mg tablet. You take this once daily, usually in the evening.

The tablet can be broken to take a 2.5mg dose when needed. The recommended dose for an adult is 5mg, and this is one tablet or two teaspoons of the oral solution. But you may find that 2.5 mg, once daily in the evening is enough. This is half of a tablet or one teaspoon of the oral solution.

How to take Xyzal

Before taking the treatment it’s important to read and follow the product leaflet. If you have any questions, let us know before you take it.

If you’re using the oral solution, make sure that you’re careful when measuring out the dose. Use the spoon provided to ensure that you take the correct amount.

• You can take Xyzal by mouth both with or without food.
• It’s recommended to take Xyzal at a fixed time of the day. This can be before or after food.
• Swallow your tablet whole with water.
• If you’re using the oral solution, you’ll find a syringe provided to draw out the medication. This should be mixed with water and swallowed immediately.
• It’s usually taken once a day in the evening.
• It’s recommended to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking other medication. There could be risks of side effects or lack of efficacy if you mix certain medications. For example, antidepressants, indigestion medicines and cold remedies.
• Try to avoid alcohol if you’re taking an antihistamine, especially if they make you feel drowsy.
• Food shouldn’t affect Xyzal.
• If you experience drowsiness, then don’t drive, operate machinery, or do any activity that requires your full attention when taking Xyzal.
• Make sure to store Xyzal in a cool, dry place, out of the reach of children.
• Most people will not experience side effects, but if you do your doctor needs to be informed so that they can adjust the treatment for you.
• If you experience serious side effects, such as difficulty urinating, it is important to consult your doctor immediately. Or if you have difficulty breathing or face swelling then call 999.

The recommended dosage will depend on your age, health issues, and how you respond to the medication. If you find that the dose isn’t working for you, let us know, and we’ll discuss some other options with you. Don’t increase the dose without seeking advice from a medical professional.

How long does it take Xyzal to work?

Xyzal should start to work within an hour of taking it . You’ll see that symptoms ease fully throughout the day . The most common side effects when taking Xyzal are drowsiness, and a dry mouth.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Xyzal?

If you take too much by mistake, see a doctor. If you have difficulty breathing then call 999.

If you’re taking Xyzal regularly and you accidentally miss a dose, then take it when you remember. If this is close to the time of your next dose, then take that one as usual and skip the missed dose. Avoid doubling doses.