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 those 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 stop taking this medication without consulting 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 has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
For the treatment of seasonal allergies, year-round allergies, or allergic skin reactions, 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. For people with kidney disease, the usual starting dose is 60 mg taken by mouth once daily.
Fexofenadine may be taken with or without food. Avoid prolonged use of this medication, unless recommended by a doctor.
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 exactly as prescribed by your doctor. 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 light and 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 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 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.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you are:
- allergic to fexofenadine or any ingredients of the medication.
