Xyzal Allergy approved for over-the-counter sales

Xyzal offers 24-hour relief from the symptoms that come with hay fever.
Xyzal offers 24-hour relief from the symptoms that come with hay fever. | File photo
Sanofi has received FDA approval of Xyzal Allergy 24HR, an over-the-counter option for those suffering with certain allergies. 
With approximately 60 million Americans being plagued with symptoms from allergic rhinitis -- more often known as hay fever -- antihistamines are what most individuals turn to. 
Xyzal promises to offer 24-hour relief from the plethora of symptoms that come with hay fever, including running nose, itchy and watery eyes, itching nose and throat, and sneezing. Its active ingredient is levocetirizine dihydrochloride.
"The FDA approval of Xyzal builds on our heritage of successful Rx-to-OTC switches and adds another trusted option to our existing portfolio of OTC allergy medications," Robert Long, Sanofi's head of North America Consumer Healthcare, said. 
In addition to Xyzel, Sanofi has been responsible for Allegra Allergy, which was made available OTC in 2011 and Nasacort Allergy, which was made available OTC in 2013. 
Sanofi plans for Xyzal to be available for purchase this spring.