WHAT IS FEXOFENADINE, AND HOW DOES IT WORK

Fexofenadine is an oral, "second era" antihistamine that is utilized to treat the signs and manifestations of sensitivity and hives. It is like the other second era antihistamines loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and azelastine (Astelin). 

Histamine is a synthetic that is in charge of a significant number of the signs and indications of unfavorably susceptible responses, for instance, swelling of the covering of the nose, sniffling, and irritated eyes. Histamine is discharged from histamine-putting away cells (pole cells) and afterward joins to different cells that have receptors for histamine. The connection of the histamine to the receptors makes the cells be "initiated," discharging different chemicals that create the impacts that we connect with hypersensitivity (for instance, wheezing). Fexofenadine pieces one sort of receptor for histamine (the H1 receptor) and subsequently averts initiation of H1 receptor-containing cells by histamine. Not at all like the original antihistamines, fexofenadine and other second-age antihistamines don't promptly enter the mind from the blood. Along these lines, they cause less sluggishness and are called non-steadying antihistamines. Fexofenadine was affirmed by the FDA in July 1995.

WHAT BRAND NAMES IS AVAILABLE FOR FEXOFENADINE?

Allegra, Allegra Allergy, Children's Allegra, Allergy 24-HR, Mucinex Allergy

Is fexofenadine available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Do I need a prescription for fexofenadine?

No, yes (suspension)

WHAT ARE THE USES FOR FEXOFENADINE?  

Fexofenadine is used for the treatment of seasonal allergies in patients 2 years of age and older and chronic urticarial (hives, itching) in patients 6 months of age and older.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF FEXOFENADINE?

The most common side effects of fexofenadine are:

1. headache,
2. diarrhea,
3. nausea,
4. vomiting,
5. weakness,
6. sleepiness,
7. dizziness and
8. sleepiness.

Other important side effects include:

1. fever,
2. muscle aches,
3. back pain,
4. cough,
5. allergic reactions, and
6. pain in the limbs.

WHAT IS THE DOSAGE FOR FEXOFENADINE?

For seasonal allergies and urticarial the recommended dose for adults and children 12 years of age or older is 60 mg twice daily or 180 mg once daily.

WHICH DRUGS OR SUPPLEMENTS INTERACT WITH FEXOFENADINE?

Aluminum containing acid neutralizers (for instance, Maalox) lessened the assimilation of fexofenadine when managed 15 minutes separated. In this way, aluminum containing stomach settling agents and fexofenadine ought not be managed together. Organic product juices (apple, orange, grapefruit) may diminish the assimilation of fexofenadine. Fexofenadine should just be managed with water. 

Is fexofenadine safe to take in case I'm pregnant or breastfeeding? 

Fexofenadine has not been sufficiently contemplated in pregnant ladies. 

Fexofenadine has not been sufficiently contemplated in ladies who are breastfeeding.

What else should I know about fexofenadine?

What preparations of fexofenadine are available?

Tablets: 30, 60 and 180 mg. Suspension: 30 mg/5 ml.

Children 2-11 years of age should be given 30 mg twice daily for seasonal allergies or urticarial.

Children 6 months to 2 years old should receive 15 mg twice daily for urticarial.

The suspension is used for children less than 6 years old.

HOW SHOULD I KEEP FEXOFENADINE STORED?

Tablets and suspension should be stored at room temperature between 20 C - 25 C (68 F - 77 F).

Summary

Fexofenadine (Allegra, Allegra Allergy, Children's Allegra, Allergy 24-HR, Mucinex Allergy) is a medication prescribed for the treatment of allergy and hives. Side effects, drug interactions, and pregnancy safety should be reviewed prior to taking this medication.