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Fexofenadine

    Brands

    DEA Class; OTC

    Common Brand Names; Allegra, Allegra Allergy 12 Hour, Allegra Allergy 24 Hour, Children’s Allegra Allergy, Mucinex Allergy

    • Antihistamines, 2nd Generation

    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

    Indicated for the management of symptoms of perennial allergies and seasonal allergies, including allergic rhinitis.
    For the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria.

    Hypersensitivity

    • 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%)

    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 category: C

    Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use with caution (AAP states “compatible with nursing”)

    Adults

    180 mg/day PO if given once daily; 120 mg/day if given in 2 divided doses.

    Geriatric

    180 mg/day PO if given once daily; 120 mg/day if given in 2 divided doses.

    Adolescents

    180 mg/day PO if given once daily; 120 mg/day if given in 2 divided doses.

    Children

    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.

    Infants

    6 months and older: 30 mg/day PO.
    Less than 6 months: Safety and efficacy have not been established.

    Neonates

    Safety and efficacy have not been established.

    Fexofenadine hydrochloride

    tablets

    • 30mg
    • 60mg
    • 180mg

    oral suspension

    • 30mg/5mL

    oral disintegrating tablets

    • 30mg