Fexofenadine

Generic name: fexofenadine
Brand names: Allegra 12 Hour Allergy, Allegra 24 Hour Allergy, Allegra Allergy, Allegra OTC, Aller-Ease, Allergy Relief (Fexofenadine HCl), Children’s Allegra Allergy, Children’s Allegra ODT
Dosage forms: suspension, tablet, disintegrating tablet
Drug class: Antihistamines

Root of administration: oral
Dose: 120, 180, 240 mg
Mechanism of action: Fexofenadine works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that is released in the body during an allergic reaction. This blocking action helps to reduce the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Drug usage cases: Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that may be used to treat allergy symptoms (including hay fever) in adults and children.

Fexofenadine is also used to treat skin itching and hives caused by a condition called chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children who are at least 6 years old.

Drug contraindications: You should not use fexofenadine if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if fexofenadine is safe to use if you have:

• kidney disease.

Side effects: Fexofenadine may cause serious side effects. Stop using fexofenadine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, unusual tiredness);
• new or worsening cough;
• pain; or
• signs of an ear infection–fever, ear pain or full feeling, trouble hearing, drainage from the ear, fussiness in a child.

Warnings: Do not take fexofenadine with fruit juice (such as apple, orange, or grapefruit).
Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Ask a doctor before using fexofenadine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.