Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-blocker that can be used therapeutically. It functions by stopping the body from releasing a natural product called histamine during an allergic reaction.
It is prescribed to treat allergy symptoms such as hay fever and urticaria.
It is available in the market with the brand name “Allegra” and others.
Uses of Fexofenadine
Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that helps to relieve allergy symptoms like:
Watery eyes
Runny nose
Itching
Sneezing
It is also used to treat:
Hay fever
Conjunctivitis
Hives
Eczema
Food allergies
How to use Fexofenadine?
If self-treating with an over-the-counter medication, read all instructions on the pack before use.
If prescribed by your doctor, take it exactly as directed, typically twice a day (every 12 hours).
For liquid forms, shake well before each dose and measure carefully with a particular measuring device or spoon.
Tablets/capsules or liquids can be taken with or without food.
If taking a rapidly dissolving tablet, do so on an empty stomach.
Allow fast-acting tablets to dissolve on the tongue before swallowing.
Remove the tablet from the blister pack only when ready to use.
If taking with a liquid, use water; avoid fruit juices (apple, grapefruit, or orange) as they can reduce absorption.
Dosage is determined by age, medical condition, and treatment response.
Do not exceed prescribed doses or frequency. Stop taking aluminium and magnesium-containing antacids within 2 hours of this medication, as they can impair absorption.
Side Effects of Fexofenadine
The following are the common side effects of Fexofenadine:
Vomiting
Back pain
Chills
Coughing
Diarrhea
Difficulty with moving
Dizziness
Fever
Headache
Loss of voice
Nasal congestion
Pain in arms or legs
Painful menstrual bleeding
Pain or tenderness around eyes or cheekbones
Redness or swelling in the ear
Ringing or buzzing in ears
Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
Sneezing
Sore throat
Stomach upset
Swollen joints
Unusual feeling of tiredness or weakness
Viral infection (such as cold and flu)
Nervousness
Rash
Sleeplessness
Terrible dreams
These side effects may vary from person to person and depend on health conditions. Consult the doctor immediately if you feel uneasy while taking the medication.
Take Precautions Before Taking Fexofenadine:
Inform your doctor if you have
Allergic to fexofenadine or other substances
Medical history, particularly kidney disease
Medications used before surgery
Diabetes
Phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other disorder requiring dietary restrictions
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is already near the time of the next dose, skip the forgotten dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has severe symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, contact a doctor immediately.
Interactions
Drug interactions can alter the functioning of your medications or increase the risk of severe side effects.
This list does not cover all potential drug interactions.
Keep a list of all medications you use and share it with your doctor.
Do not begin, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without your doctor’s permission.
How to Store Fexofenadine?
Store away from direct sunlight and moisture at room temperature.
Different brands of this medicine have different storage requirements. Check the product package carefully for instructions on how to store it, or ask your pharmacist.
Keep all drugs away from children and pets.
Do not flush the medication down the toilet or pour it into the drain unless instructed to do so.
Discard this product properly when it has expired or is no longer needed.
Fexofenadine vs Cetirizine
Fexofenadine
Cetirizine
Fexofenadine is sold under the brand name Allegra
Cetirizine is sold under the brand name Zyrtec
is an antihistamine pharmaceutical drug
is a second-generation antihistamine
Fexofenadine is used in the treatment of allergy symptoms, such as hay fever and urticaria.
Cetirizine is used to treat allergic rhinitis, dermatitis, and urticaria.
