Brand Name
Allegra
Common Name
fexofenadine
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 02231462 | ALLEGRA 12 HOUR 60MG TABLET |
| 02242819 | ALLEGRA 24 HOUR 120MG TABLET |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Fexofenadine belongs to the class of medications called second generation antihistamines, specifically the class known as histamine receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of one of the body's natural chemicals known as histamine. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms caused by allergies.
Fexofenadine is used for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal and year-round allergies including sneezing; itchy palate; runny nose; and itchy, tearing, and redness of the eyes. It is also used to relieve the symptoms associated with an allergic skin reaction (chronic idiopathic urticaria) including hives and itchy skin. This medication usually starts to work within one hour.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor or pharmacist has not recommended it.
How should I use this medication?
For the treatment of seasonal allergies, the recommended dose of fexofenadine for adults and children 12 years of age and older is 60 mg every 12 hours or 120 mg once daily. Avoid prolonged use of this medication, unless recommended by a doctor.
For the treatment of year-round allergies and allergic skin reactions, the recommended dose is 60 mg every 12 hours.
For people with kidney disease, the usual starting dose is 60 mg taken by mouth once daily. This medication may be taken with or without food.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication be exactly as suggested by your doctor or pharmacist. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Allegra® 12 Hour
60 mg 12-hour tablet: Each peach, oval double convex tablet, engraved on one side with an "e" and with "06" on the other side, contains 60 mg of fexofenadine. Nonmedicinal ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, iron oxide, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, povidone, silicon dioxide, starch, and titanium dioxide. These tablets do not contain lactose.
Allegra® 24 Hour
120 mg 24-hour tablet: Each peach, oblong double convex tablet, plain on one side and engraved on the other side with "012", contains 120 mg of fexofenadine. Nonmedicinal ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, iron oxide, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, povidone, silicon dioxide, starch, and titanium dioxide. These tablets do not contain lactose.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Fexofenadine should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to fexofenadine or to any of the ingredients of the medication.
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