Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride Coupons & Prices

Looking for a levocetirizine dihydrochloride coupon? Levocetirizine is the affordable generic version of Xyzal, a once-daily, non-drowsy-class antihistamine used for seasonal and year-round allergies and for hives. Because it is a widely stocked generic, the cash price is already low, but what you pay can vary a lot from one pharmacy to the next. Rx.com compares prices across more than 60,000 U.S. pharmacies so you can find the lowest cost near you. Enter your ZIP above to see today's price and print or text yourself a free discount coupon.

What is levocetirizine dihydrochloride and how does it work?

Levocetirizine dihydrochloride is a second-generation (non-sedating class) antihistamine and the active R-enantiomer of cetirizine. It blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors, which calms the allergic response that causes runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat. It is FDA-approved to relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial (year-round) allergic rhinitis and to treat the uncomplicated skin symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives), including the itching.

It is sold under the brand names Xyzal and Xyzal Allergy 24HR, and is available both by prescription and over the counter. A once-daily dose is typical for adults, and it works whether your allergies are triggered by pollen, pets, dust, or other year-round allergens.

Cost and savings: is the generic cheaper?

Levocetirizine is available as an FDA-approved generic, which is usually far less expensive than the Xyzal brand. Even so, the cash price without insurance is not the same everywhere. Two pharmacies on the same street can list noticeably different prices for the identical tablet, which is exactly why comparing before you fill pays off. Rx.com checks prices across more than 60,000 pharmacies and gives you a free discount coupon you can use with or instead of insurance. Enter your ZIP above to see today's price near you.

If you and your prescriber prefer brand-name Xyzal, the manufacturer offers a savings program on its official site, xyzal.com; eligibility and terms vary and it generally cannot be combined with a discount coupon. For most people the generic is the simplest way to keep costs down. This information is about price only and is not medical advice.

How it compares to other allergy antihistamines

Levocetirizine is one of several second-generation antihistamines that treat the same allergy and hive symptoms. It is closely related to cetirizine (Zyrtec) because it is the purified active half of that molecule. Others in this group differ mainly in how likely they are to cause drowsiness and how they are dosed:

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec) - very similar; levocetirizine is its active enantiomer.
• Fexofenadine (Allegra) - typically the least sedating of the group.
• Loratadine (Claritin) - once-daily, low sedation.
• Desloratadine (Clarinex) - the active metabolite of loratadine.
• Montelukast (Singulair) - a leukotriene blocker, not an antihistamine, sometimes used for allergic rhinitis.

All are widely available as low-cost generics. Which one is best depends on your symptoms and how sensitive you are to drowsiness, so talk with your pharmacist or provider.

Safety and side effects

Levocetirizine has no boxed warning. The most common side effect is drowsiness, sleepiness, or fatigue, and it tends to be a bit more sedating than some other second-generation antihistamines; dry mouth is also common. Avoid alcohol and other medicines that slow the nervous system while taking it, and use caution driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Because the kidneys clear the drug, a lower dose is needed if you have reduced kidney function, and it should not be used by people with end-stage kidney disease or those on hemodialysis. It is also not for anyone with a known allergy to levocetirizine or cetirizine.

Rare but serious hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema, hives, and anaphylaxis, have been reported, and there are rare reports of difficulty urinating, so use caution if you are prone to urinary retention. Different formulations have different minimum age limits for children. This is a brief summary, not medical advice; check the label and talk with your provider or pharmacist about your situation.