There's a New Allergy Med on Pharmacy Shelves

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a prescription allergy medication to make the switch to over-the-counter (OTC) availability.

This medication is found under the brand name Xyzal Allergy 24HR (levocetirizine dihydrochloride). It has been approved to relieve symptoms associated with both year-round and seasonal allergies.

Now that Xyzal is available over the counter and no longer requires a prescription, those with allergies have another easily accessible treatment option.

Xyzal has been approved for children ages 6 and older (5 mg tablets) and for children 2 and older (0.5 mg/mL oral solution).

This medication is meant to provide 24-hour relief from symptoms like itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose and throat. Common side effects include dry mouth, cough, sore throat and the common cold.

Levocetirizine dihydrochloride may also cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

This medication is not recommended in patients with advanced kidney disease.

Sanofi manufactures Xyzal.