Generic Name : Fexofenadine
Brand Names : Alegra
Alegra (Fexofenadine) is an antihistamine that provides relief of seasonal allergy symptoms such as runny or itchy nose, sneezing, itchy throat, and watery, itchy, or red eyes. It is also used for hives.
Alegra (Fexofenadine) is indicated to treat seasonal allergy symptoms. It is also used for the treatment of hives.
The patient should take fexofenadine by mouth usually twice a day or as directed by the doctor. The patient should shake the bottle well before using. The patient should take the regular tablet or suspension form of this medication with or without food. If the patient is using the rapidly dissolving tablet, it should be taken on an empty stomach. The patient should remove the rapidly dissolving tablet from its foil pack immediately before taking and placing the tablet on the tongue. The patient may swallow the dissolved medication with or without water. Taking fexofenadine with apple, grapefruit, or orange juice may decrease the absorption of this drug. The patient should avoid taking fexofenadine with these types of fruit juices. Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium can decrease the absorption of this drug. The patient should not take antacids within 2 hours of taking this medication. The patient should not increase the dose or take this more often than directed. Dosage is based on the medical condition (e.g., kidney disease) and response to treatment. In children, dosage is also based on age. This medication should not be taken for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected.
Proper consultation should be done with the doctor in case of having any of these side-effects: Stomach upset, menstrual cramps, back pain, cough, fever, stuffy nose, earache or dizziness may occur, rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Before using this medication, the doctor or pharmacist should be told about the medical history of the patient, especially of: kidney disease.
Before using this medication, the doctor or pharmacist should be told about all prescription and nonprescription products the patient may use, especially of: antacids containing aluminum and magnesium, st. John's wort. The labels on all the medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products)should be checked carefully because they may contain additional antihistamines that could increase the risk for side effects.
In case of overdose the patient should contact the local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include seizures, chest pain, fast/irregular heartbeat, severe muscle cramping, fainting.
Before taking Alegra (Fexofenadine), consultation should be done with the doctor or pharmacist if :