Non-sedating H1 antihistamine
Levocetirizine hydrochloride
Brand names: Xyzal
Adult dose
Dose: 5mg PO OD
Route: PO
Frequency: OD
Paediatric dose
Route: PO
Frequency: OD
Age bands
- 24–72m: 1.25mg BD
- 72–144m: 2.5mg BD or 5mg OD
Dose adjustments
Renal
CrCl 30–50: 5mg every other day; <10: avoid
Clinical pearls
- Active enantiomer of cetirizine — slightly cleaner sedation profile
- Allergic rhinitis, urticaria
Contraindications
- Severe renal impairment (CrCl <10)
Side effects
- Drowsiness (less than cetirizine)
- Headache
- Dry mouth
Interactions
- CNS depressants
Reference: BNFc; BNF; BSACI rhinitis/urticaria guidelines; https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/levocetirizine-hydrochloride/. Verify against your local formulary and the latest BNF before prescribing.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Calculators
Drugs
Pathways
- New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation · ESC 2020 AF Guidelines; NICE NG196
- Hypertensive Emergency · ESC/ESH 2018 Hypertension Guidelines; NICE NG136
- Bradycardia Management · Resuscitation Council UK ABCDE; ESC 2021 Pacing Guidelines
- Ventricular Tachycardia / Fibrillation · Resuscitation Council UK ACLS; ESC 2022 Ventricular Arrhythmia Guidelines
- Syncope Assessment · ESC 2018 Syncope Guidelines; NICE NG109
- Acute Chest Pain · NICE CG95; ESC 2023 ACS Guidelines