Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Allegra, Allegra Allergy 12 Hour, Allegra Allergy 24 Hour, Children’s Allegra Allergy, Mucinex Allergy
- Antihistamines, 2nd Generation
Description
Non-sedating antihistamine (H1-receptor antagonist)
Used for seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria
Active metabolite of terfenadine; fexofenadine does not typically prolong the QT interval
Indications
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Adverse Effects
- Vomiting (6-12%)
- Headache (5-10%)
- Cough (4%)
- Diarrhea (3-4%)
- URTI (3%)
- Back pain (2-3%)
- Pyrexia (2%)
- Dysmenorrhea (2%)
- Dizziness (2%)
- Stomach discomfort (2%)
- Pain in extremity (2%)
- Somnolence (1-3%)
- Rhinorrhea (1-2%)
Warnings
Allegra ODT contains phenylalanine
Get emergency help if experiencing hives along with symptoms that include trouble swallowing, dizziness or loss of consciousness, drooling, swelling of tongue, swelling in and around the mouth, trouble speaking, wheezing, or problem breathing
The symptoms may be a sign of anaphylactic shock; this condition can be life-threatening if not treated by a healthcare professional immediately
Symptoms of anaphylactic shock may occur when hives first appear or up to a few hours later
If the doctor prescribes epinephrine injections for anaphylaxis, or severe allergy symptoms that could occur with the hives, never use this product as substitute for the epinephrine injection
If prescribed an epinephrine injector, carry it at all times
Do not use to prevent hives from known causes including foods, insect stings, medicines, latex or rubber gloves, because this product will not stop hives from occurring; avoiding the cause of hives is the best way to prevent them
If you do not know the cause of the hives, see a doctor for a medical exam; the doctor may be able to help find the cause
Patients with kidney disease should ask a doctor; the doctor should determine if dose needs to be adjusted
Do not take more than directed
Do not take at the same time as aluminum or magnesium antacids
Do not take with fruit juices
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use with caution (AAP states “compatible with nursing”)
Maximum Dosage
180 mg/day PO if given once daily; 120 mg/day if given in 2 divided doses.
180 mg/day PO if given once daily; 120 mg/day if given in 2 divided doses.
180 mg/day PO if given once daily; 120 mg/day if given in 2 divided doses.
12 years: 180 mg/day PO if given once daily; 120 mg/day if given in 2 divided doses.
2 to 11 years: 60 mg/day PO.
Less than 2 years: 30 mg/day PO.
6 months and older: 30 mg/day PO.
Less than 6 months: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
How supplied
Fexofenadine hydrochloride
tablets
- 30mg
- 60mg
- 180mg
oral suspension
- 30mg/5mL
oral disintegrating tablets
- 30mg
