| Allegra | Xyzal | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic | fexofenadine | levocetirizine |
| Active ingredient | Fexofenadine HCl 180 mg (24 Hour) or 60 mg (12 Hour) | Levocetirizine dihydrochloride 5 mg |
| Type | Oral antihistamine (pill) | Oral antihistamine (pill) |
| Label uses | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat |
| Nasal congestion on label | No | No |
| Drowsiness | No drowsiness warning | May cause drowsiness |
| How often | Once a day (180 mg) or twice a day (60 mg) | Once a day, in the evening |
| Youngest age on label | 12 years | 6 years |
| Maximum | 1 x 180 mg or 2 x 60 mg tablets in 24 hours | 1 tablet (5 mg) in 24 hours for ages 12 to 64 |
The main differences
Both are oral antihistamines and list the same core uses on the label: itching of the nose or throat, itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing.
On drowsiness: Allegra: The label has no drowsiness warning. Xyzal: The label says "drowsiness may occur" and to avoid alcohol. It is taken in the evening.
For children, Xyzal is labeled from age 6, while Allegra is labeled from age 12.
Dosing: Allegra is once a day (180 mg) or twice a day (60 mg); Xyzal is once a day, in the evening.
Which might suit you
- you need to stay alert during the day
- you can take it with water rather than juice and away from antacids
- you prefer a once-a-day dose at night
- it is for a child aged 6 or older
This is based only on what the two labels say. Neither label claims to work better than the other. A pharmacist can help if you have other conditions or take other medicines.
Dose by age
Allegra
- Adults and children 12 and older (24 Hour): One 180 mg tablet with water once a day. Not more than 1 tablet in 24 hours.
- Adults and children 12 and older (12 Hour): One 60 mg tablet with water every 12 hours. Not more than 2 tablets in 24 hours.
- Children under 12: Do not use (these tablets).
- Adults 65 and older, or kidney disease: Ask a doctor.
Xyzal
- Adults and children 12 to 64: 1 tablet (5 mg) once daily in the evening. Not more than 1 tablet in 24 hours.
- Children 6 to 11: Half a tablet (2.5 mg) once daily in the evening. Not more than half a tablet in 24 hours.
- Adults 65 and older: Ask a doctor.
- Children under 6: Do not use.
Key warnings
Allegra
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have kidney disease.
- Do not take at the same time as aluminum or magnesium antacids.
- Do not take with fruit juices: take it with water.
Xyzal
- Do not use if you have kidney disease.
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have ever had trouble urinating or emptying your bladder.
- Alcohol, sedatives and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness.
Compare prices for Allegra Compare prices for Xyzal
Frequently asked questions
Is Allegra or Xyzal better?
Neither label claims to work better than the other. Which suits you depends on your symptoms, age, and whether drowsiness matters, as compared above. A pharmacist can help you choose.
Can you take Allegra and Xyzal together?
Both are antihistamines, and the labels don't cover combining them. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before combining allergy medicines.
Sources: Allegra Allergy Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label); Xyzal Allergy 24HR Drug Facts label (Drugs.com, from the manufacturer's label). Checked October 17, 2026. Not medical advice. How we check.