What is the brand name for Levocetirizine?
The brand name for Levocetirizine is Xyzal.
PTCE Top 200 · #158
Levocetirizine
Xyzal
Levocetirizine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Xyzal. It is an antihistamine (2nd generation) used to treat allergies. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Levocetirizine ranks #158 and is one of the most frequently tested respiratory/allergy medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Levocetirizine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Xyzal |
| Drug class | Antihistamine (2nd generation) |
| Class group | Respiratory/Allergy |
| Common use | allergies |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Over-the-counter (OTC) |
What is Levocetirizine used for?
Relief of symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis; treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
What drug class is Levocetirizine?
Levocetirizine is an Antihistamine (2nd generation) in the Respiratory/Allergy group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Levocetirizine
- arrow_rightSomnolence
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightFatigue
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightSore throat
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAlcohol/CNS depressants → increased sedation (usually mild but possible)
- arrow_rightRenal impairment: dose adjustment may be needed
Is Levocetirizine a controlled substance?
No. Levocetirizine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Levocetirizine (PTCE mnemonic)
XY-zal = 'eXtra-Zyrtec' — LEVOcetirizine is L-isomer of cetirizine (half-dose, similar effect). Less sedating than Zyrtec but more than loratadine; renal dose-adjust.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Another isomer play: LEVOcetirizine is the refined isomer of cetirizine — recognize levo-/es-/des- prefixes as 'active version of the parent drug.'
Levocetirizine FAQ
What is Levocetirizine used for?
Levocetirizine is used to treat allergies. Relief of symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis; treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
What drug class is Levocetirizine?
Levocetirizine is an Antihistamine (2nd generation) (Respiratory/Allergy group).
Is Levocetirizine a controlled substance?
No. Levocetirizine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Respiratory/Allergy group
Drill Levocetirizine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).