Medication guide
Fexofenadine
- Generic name
- Fexofenadine
- Common brand names
- Allegra
- Medication class
- Second-generation antihistamine
Overview
Its medication class is Second-generation antihistamine. Common uses include Allergic rhinitis and hives. Product forms and labels can differ, so follow the specific package instructions and ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional about individual questions.
How to Take it
- Route
- Oral tablet/syrup.
- Time of day
- Usually once daily in the morning.
- With food/water
- Take with or without food; use 120–240 mL water.
- Preparation
- Swallow tablets whole.
- Safe dose
- Use the labeled standard dose (often 1 tablet) unless age-adjusted.
- Max dose
- Do not exceed one label-defined daily dose and avoid duplicate antihistamines.
- Frequency
- Once every 24 hours unless label says otherwise.
- Other recommendations
- Use caution if driving until individualized response to sedation is known.
Common uses
- Allergic rhinitis and hives
Common side effects
- Headache
- nausea
- fatigue
- dizziness
- dry mouth
- and stomach upset
Important warnings
- Separate from antacids containing aluminum/magnesium and certain supplements/juices that reduce absorption; avoid exceeding maximum daily dose. Do not combine with other antihistamines without clinician direction. Monitor older adults for fatigue or QT-risk with pre-existing heart disease. Seek urgent care for anaphylaxis-like symptoms.
General interactions information
Can interact with antacids/supplements; separate dosing to improve effectiveness.
Sources / references
- Fexofenadine — MedlinePlus
U.S. National Library of Medicine
These references offer further reading. A source link does not establish that a clinician has reviewed every statement in this guide.
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