What is Xevolcin for? A Guide to the Antihistamine Levocetirizine

October 6, 2025 •

2 min read

A 2003 clinical study on levocetirizine, the active ingredient in Xevolcin, demonstrated an 86% improvement in allergic rhinitis symptoms within the first week of treatment compared to a placebo. This guide will explore what is Xevolcin for, its pharmacological function, and common uses for managing allergic reactions effectively.

Quick Summary

Xevolcin is a brand name for levocetirizine, a second-generation antihistamine that treats symptoms of allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria by blocking histamine. It offers rapid and long-lasting relief from sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives.

Key Points

Active Ingredient: Xevolcin contains levocetirizine dihydrochloride.
Primary Uses: It treats symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
Mechanism of Action: It blocks histamine action at H1-receptors, preventing allergic responses.
Less Sedating: Compared to older antihistamines, it generally causes less sedation.
Administration: It is typically taken once daily.
Caution for Renal Impairment: Dosage adjustments are needed for kidney issues, and it's not for severe kidney disease.
Withdrawal Symptom: A rare risk is severe itching after stopping long-term use.

What Is Levocetirizine and How Does Xevolcin Relate?

Xevolcin is a specific brand name for the medication containing levocetirizine dihydrochloride. Levocetirizine is a well-established, second-generation antihistamine, known for its effectiveness in managing allergic symptoms. It is the active enantiomer of cetirizine, designed to offer potent relief with a reduced potential for drowsiness.

The Mechanism Behind Xevolcin's Action

Levocetirizine works as a selective antagonist for H1-histamine receptors, blocking the allergic response caused by histamine. This helps relieve symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives.

Primary Uses and Indications for Xevolcin

Xevolcin (levocetirizine) is used to treat symptoms associated with various allergic conditions, including seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). Symptoms treated include sneezing, itchy/runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, itching, skin rashes, and wheals. While primarily for rhinitis and urticaria, other uses like for eczema should be discussed with a doctor.

Administration Guidelines

Proper dosing should follow healthcare provider advice or product instructions. It can be taken with or without food. Dose adjustments are needed for those with reduced kidney function.

Potential Side Effects

Xevolcin is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects include dry mouth, headache, fatigue, drowsiness, and abdominal pain. Less common effects can include nausea, increased heart rate, dizziness, and aggression. The FDA has warned about a rare risk of intense itching after stopping long-term use; seek medical advice if this occurs.

Contraindications and Precautions

Avoid Xevolcin with severe kidney problems (CrCl < 10 mL/min) or while on hemodialysis, or if allergic to levocetirizine/cetirizine. It's generally not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless directed by a doctor. Concurrent use with alcohol or CNS depressants can worsen drowsiness. Use cautiously with a history of urinary retention problems.

Comparison Table: Levocetirizine (Xevolcin) vs. Cetirizine


Feature	Levocetirizine (Xevolcin)	Cetirizine (e.g., Zyrtec)
Drug Generation	Second-generation	Second-generation
Chemical Relation	Active R-enantiomer of cetirizine	Racemic mixture containing both R- and S-enantiomers
Sedation	Generally considered less sedating	Can cause drowsiness, sometimes more than levocetirizine
Effectiveness	Potent, with evidence of rapid action and sustained relief	Effective for treating similar allergy symptoms
Anti-Inflammatory Effects	Documented anti-inflammatory effects beyond simple H1-receptor blockade at relevant concentrations	Primarily acts as a potent H1-receptor antagonist
Typical Adult Dosage	Varies; follow medical advice	Varies; follow medical advice

Conclusion

Xevolcin (levocetirizine) is a second-generation antihistamine effective for treating allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. It blocks histamine at H1-receptors for relief with potentially less sedation. Follow instructions for use, be aware of side effects like drowsiness, and consult a doctor, especially with kidney issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Xevolcin's main role is as an antihistamine, blocking histamine's action during allergic reactions to relieve symptoms like sneezing, itching, and rashes from allergies and hives.

Yes, Xevolcin can cause drowsiness, though it's typically less sedating than some older antihistamines. Taking it in the evening is often advised to minimize daytime effects.

Availability of levocetirizine over the counter varies by location. Check with your local pharmacist or healthcare provider.

Treatment duration depends on the condition. Discuss long-term use with your doctor, especially considering the rare risk of severe itching upon stopping.

Xevolcin contains levocetirizine, the active part of cetirizine (Zyrtec). Levocetirizine is generally considered less sedating.

Avoid Xevolcin if you have severe kidney problems, are on hemodialysis, or are allergic to levocetirizine or cetirizine. It's generally not for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals without medical advice.

Take the missed dose when you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose.

Be cautious using Xevolcin with other CNS depressants like alcohol as it can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you take.