Allegra (Fexofenadine)

Allegra is the brand name of fexofenadine. This medication is an antihistamine, prescribed for seasonal allergic reactions such as runny nose, sneezing etc. It used to treat the signs and symptoms of allergies and hives.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE.:-

• Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

• The recommended dose is 60 mg twice daily or 180 mg once daily with water for adults.

• It comes as a tablet or capsule to take by mouth, with water.      

What if you miss a dose of fexofenadine .:-

Use a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Many times this drug is taken on an as needed basis and do not take double dose at same time.

How fexofenadine works.:-

Fexofenadine is in a class of medications known as antihistamines. Fexofenadine lowers or stops the body’s reaction to the allergen which stop the effects of histamine, a substance in your body that causes allergic symptoms by blocking the histamine receptor.

Fexofenadine side effects.:-

Tell your doctor if any of the following side effects occur.

• Diarrhea, upset stomach.

• Menstrual cramps

• Drowsiness, tired feeling.

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Pain in the arms, legs, or back

• Pain during menstrual period

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing 

• Swelling of the face, throat, lips, tongue, eyes, hands, ankles.

WARNING & PRECAUTIONS

Before taking Fexofenadine talk to your doctor if you have or had any of the following conditions.:-

• Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. 

• Fexofenadine may interfere with skin allergy tests and you may need to stop it before having these tests.

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING.:-

Before taking Fexofenadine, tell your physician if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Fexofenadine is only recommended for use in pregnancy when the benefits outweigh the risks.

Kidney.:-

Before starting fexofenadine, talk to your healthcare specialist if you have or have ever had kidney disease.

Liver.: -  

should be used with caution in patients with severe liver disease. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol.: -  

It may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol. Talk to your doctor about consuming alcohol while taking fexofenadine

Interactions with this medication.:-

For informational purposes only. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicine.

To avoid drug interactions, tell your doctor about all prescription, OTC, recreational, herbal, nutritional, or dietary drugs you are taking, especially.:-

• Erythromycin

• Ketoconazole

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium

• Don't drink fruit juice at the same time you take Allegra. Certain juices (such as grapefruit, apple, or orange) may decrease the effectiveness of this medication.