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Allegra D
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Generic Name: fexofenadine (fex oh FEN a deen)
Brand Names:
Allegra |
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What is the most important information I should know about
fexofenadine? |
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Never take more of this medication than is directed by your doctor. If your
symptoms are not being adequately treated, talk to your
doctor. |
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Fexofenadine is an antihistamine. Antihistamines work against the naturally
occurring chemical histamine in your body. |
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Fexofenadine is used to prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering
of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms. |
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Fexofenadine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide. |
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
fexofenadine? |
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Do not take fexofenadine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to
it. |
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Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have any serious
illness such as heart, kidney, or liver disease. You may require a dosage
adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have other
illnesses. |
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Fexofenadine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not
known whether fexofenadine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication
without first talking to your doctor if you are
pregnant. |
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It is also not known whether fexofenadine passes into breast milk. Do not
take fexofenadine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding
a baby. |
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Fexofenadine is not approved for use by children younger than 6 years of
age. |
How should I take fexofenadine? |
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Take fexofenadine exactly as directed. If you do not understand these
instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to
you. |
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Take each dose with a full glass of water. |
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Fexofenadine is usually taken twice a day, in the morning and the evening.
Follow your doctor's instructions. |
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Do not take fexofenadine close to a dose of an antacid that contains
aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid
Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of
fexofenadine. |
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Never take more of this medication than is directed by your doctor. If your
symptoms are not being adequately treated, talk to your
doctor. |
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Store fexofenadine at room temperature away from moisture and
heat. |
What happens if I miss a dose? |
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Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time
for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly
scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this
medication. |
What happens if I overdose? |
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Seek emergency medical attention. |
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Symptoms of a fexofenadine overdose are not well
known. |
What should I avoid while taking
fexofenadine? |
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Do not take fexofenadine close to a dose of an antacid that contains
aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid
Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of
fexofenadine. |
What are the possible side effects of
fexofenadine? |
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Stop taking fexofenadine and seek emergency medical attention if you
experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat;
swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives). |
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Allergic reactions occur only rarely, and other serious side effects are not
likely to occur. |
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Some less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take
fexofenadine and talk to your doctor if you experience nausea or an upset
stomach. |
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Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome. |
What other drugs will affect fexofenadine? |
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Do not take fexofenadine close to a dose of an antacid that contains
aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid
Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of
fexofenadine. |
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Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with fexofenadine. Talk
to your doctor and pharmacist before taking other medications, including herbal
products. |
Where can I get more information? |
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Your pharmacist has more information about fexofenadine written for health
professionals that you may
read. | |
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