is a long-acting antihistamine. It is used to relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, including sneezing and itchy, watery eyes, itchy throat/roof of the mouth and running nose. It is also used in the treatment of skin conditions such as hives. Compared to many other antihistamines, fexofenadine has little or no sedative effect." /> Fexofenadine
 
 

Fexofenadine

Brand Name:Allegra 12 Hour, Allegra 24 Hour, Allegra-D (combined with pseudoephedrine)

Prescription needed: No

What is this drug used for?

Fexofenadine is a long-acting antihistamine. It is used to relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, including sneezing and itchy, watery eyes, itchy throat/roof of the mouth and running nose. It is also used in the treatment of skin conditions such as hives. Compared to many other antihistamines, fexofenadine has little or no sedative effect.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

You should not take this drug if you are allergic to fexofenadine or terfenadine (also called Seldane) Some products combine fexofenadine with other drugs – check the label to make sure you are not allergic to any other components. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

  • kidney problems
  • difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate

Always disclose your full medical history with the medical team that is taking care of you, in order for them to provide you with the safest and most effective care.

What about possible side effects?

Fexofenadine is usually very well tolerated but you should be aware of some potential side effects. The following list of possible side can be bothersome, but unless they are severe, you should continue taking the drug as directed. Contact your doctor or pharmacist to get advice on how to manage these side effects

  • feeling tired or sleepy
  • dry mouth
  • headache
  • nausea
  • blurry vision
  • problems urinating

Rare but potentially serious side effects include:

  • severe skin rash, difficulty breathing or swallowing, hives all over the body or near the face and throat – signs of an allergic reaction - stop taking and get emergency medical help right away
  • heart palpitations – stop taking and contact your doctor

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication, ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications and herbal/natural products) as they may interact with and/or may change the safety or effectiveness of either drug. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of these drugs as these are the most common interactions and he/she may need to make changes or monitor you more closely:

  • certain types of antacids (e.g. Maalox, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Amphojel, Mylanta) – may decrease the effects of fexofenadine - if you need to use one of these antacids, take 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking fexofenadine
  • betahistine – fexofenadine may cause decreased effects
  • other antihistamines (e.g. dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, cetirizine, loratadine, chlorpheniramine, brompheniramine, pheniramine) – may increase risks of side effects such as dry mouth, blurry vision, tiredness
  • other drugs that can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary problems, blurry vision (e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine, chlorpromazine)
  • rifampin – may decrease the effects of fexofenadine

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your list of medications.

Other information:

Special Instructions:

If you are planning on having any skin tests for allergies, tell your doctor that you are taking this medication as you may need to discontinue its usage a few days beforehand.

Children: Safety not established in children under the age of 12. Can be used by older children but lower doses are necessary. Children may show signs of excitement and hyperactivity versus drowsiness. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Seniors: Usually no problems. However, seniors may be more likely to have an enlarged prostate or kidney problems, or may be more sensitive to side effects such as dry mouth or dizziness.

Pregnancy: Safety in pregnancy not established. Talk to your doctor.

Women who are nursing: This drug passes into breast milk and is considered safe for use while breastfeeding.

People who drive or operate machinery: Low risk of tiredness or drowsiness, but should not do so until able to see how this drug affects them personally.

Alcohol: If you drink, always drink in moderation. While fexofenadine only rarely causes drowsiness, combining with alcohol may increase the risk of experiencing drowsiness

Overdose: A large dose may cause drowsiness, dizziness and dry mouth. If you experience any unusual reactions or if you suspect an overdose call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: When it is no longer required, this drug can be safely stopped.

If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember then continue taking as directed starting with that dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom) and light; always out of reach of children.

Dietary precautions: None