What is Fexofenadine?
- Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-blocker that can be used therapeutically. It functions by stopping the body from releasing a natural product called histamine during an allergic reaction.
- It is prescribed to treat allergy symptoms such as hay fever and urticaria.
- It is available in the market with the brand name "Allegra" and others.
Uses of Fexofenadine
Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that helps to relieve allergy symptoms like:
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Itching
- Sneezing
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Get A Second OpinionIt is also used to treat:
- Hay fever
- Conjunctivitis
- Hives
- Eczema
- Food allergies
How to use Fexofenadine?
- If self-treating with an over-the-counter medication, read all instructions on the pack before use.
- If prescribed by your doctor, take it exactly as directed, typically twice a day (every 12 hours).
- For liquid forms, shake well before each dose and measure carefully with a particular measuring device or spoon.
- Tablets/capsules or liquids can be taken with or without food.
- If taking a rapidly dissolving tablet, do so on an empty stomach.
- Allow fast-acting tablets to dissolve on the tongue before swallowing.
- Remove the tablet from the blister pack only when ready to use.
- If taking with a liquid, use water; avoid fruit juices (apple, grapefruit, or orange) as they can reduce absorption.
- Dosage is determined by age, medical condition, and treatment response.
- Do not exceed prescribed doses or frequency. Stop taking aluminium and magnesium-containing antacids within 2 hours of this medication, as they can impair absorption.
Side Effects of Fexofenadine
The following are the common side effects of Fexofenadine:
- Vomiting
- Back pain
- Chills
- Coughing
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty with moving
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Headache
- Loss of voice
- Nasal congestion
- Pain in arms or legs
- Painful menstrual bleeding
- Pain or tenderness around eyes or cheekbones
- Redness or swelling in the ear
- Ringing or buzzing in ears
- Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Stomach upset
- Swollen joints
- Unusual feeling of tiredness or weakness
- Viral infection (such as cold and flu)
- Nervousness
- Rash
- Sleeplessness
- Terrible dreams
These side effects may vary from person to person and depend on health conditions. Consult the doctor immediately if you feel uneasy while taking the medication.
Take Precautions Before Taking Fexofenadine:
Inform your doctor if you have
- Allergic to fexofenadine or other substances
- Medical history, particularly kidney disease
- Medications used before surgery
- Diabetes
- Phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other disorder requiring dietary restrictions
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
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Book an AppointmentMissed Dose
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is already near the time of the next dose, skip the forgotten dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has severe symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, contact a doctor immediately.
Interactions
- Drug interactions can alter the functioning of your medications or increase the risk of severe side effects.
- This list does not cover all potential drug interactions.
- Keep a list of all medications you use and share it with your doctor.
- Do not begin, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without your doctor's permission.
How to Store Fexofenadine?
- Store away from direct sunlight and moisture at room temperature.
- Different brands of this medicine have different storage requirements. Check the product package carefully for instructions on how to store it, or ask your pharmacist.
- Keep all drugs away from children and pets.
- Do not flush the medication down the toilet or pour it into the drain unless instructed to do so.
- Discard this product properly when it has expired or is no longer needed.
Fexofenadine vs Cetirizine
| Fexofenadine | Cetirizine |
|---|---|
| Fexofenadine is sold under the brand name Allegra | Cetirizine is sold under the brand name Zyrtec |
| is an antihistamine pharmaceutical drug | is a second-generation antihistamine |
| Fexofenadine is used in the treatment of allergy symptoms, such as hay fever and urticaria. | Cetirizine is used to treat allergic rhinitis, dermatitis, and urticaria. |
| Formula: C32H39NO4 | Molecular Formula: C21H25ClN2O3 |
| Molecular Weight: 501.7 g/mol | Molar mass: 388.89 g/mol |
