Allegra

Generic Name: Fexofenadine
US Brand Name: Allegra
Other Brand/Trade Names: Fexofenadine is marketed under many trade names around the world, including: Alerfedine, Alernex, Fexoalergic, Fexofen, Kalicet.

Uses

Fexofenadine relieves the itchy, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, red, watery eyes that come with hay fever. It is also used to relieve the itching and welts of hives.

Active Ingredients: Fexofenadine
Inactive Ingredients: Croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and pregelatinized starch, hypromellose, iron oxide blends, polyethylene glycol, povidone, silicone dioxide, and titanium dioxide.

Dosage and Forms

Fexofenadine is available in form of tablets. For seasonal allergies the recommended dose for adults and children 12 years or older is 60 mg twice daily or 180 mg once daily. Children 6-11 years of age should be given 30 mg twice daily. For chronic urticaria, adults and children 12 years or older should use 60 mg twice daily, and children 6-11 years of age should use 30 mg twice daily. Fexofenadine can be taken with or without food.
Symptoms of Fexofenadine overdose may include unusual or severe dizziness, drowsiness or dry mouth.

Contraindications and Precautions

If Fexofenadine gives you an allergic reaction, avoid it in the future. Do not give either product to children under 6.
Do not take Fexofenadine if you have glaucoma, urination problems or severe high blood pressure or heart disease. Also avoid taking Fexofenadine within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as Marplan, Nardil or Parnate.
Use Fexofenadine with caution if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, increased pressure in the eyes, prostate problems, or hyperthyroidism.

Side Effects

Stop taking Fexofenadine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives). Continue to take Fexofenadine and talk to your doctor if you experience nausea or an upset stomach. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Interactions

Antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium may affect the way that Fexofenadine works or increase the risk of side effects.
Interactions between any of these medications do not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. In many cases, interactions are intended or are managed by close monitoring. Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take.