All about Fexofenadine Hydrochloride
If you find yourself in bouts of sneezing after you’ve been outside, chances are that you have allergic rhinitis. This condition may also bring about other reactions such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. That’s where fexofenadine comes in.
Although the name sounds very scientific, and perhaps a little intimidating, it’s an active component in Allegra® products, and it is very helpful in treating allergic rhinitis and hives. Read on to discover how fexofenadine works, the required dosage, and potential side effects.
Throughout this page, you will find information about:
What is fexofenadine used for?
To put things simply, fexofenadine is an antihistamine that temporarily relieves allergy symptoms. Whether you are dealing with outdoor allergens, like pollen, or indoor ones, like pet dander and dust mites, fexofenadine can help take the edge off of those allergy symptoms.
And, allergies can strike people of any age, as both children and adults can experience allergies, with unwanted symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat1, and hives.
So, how does fexofenadine work? It’s known as a second-generation antihistamine drug, which means that it provides relief by attaching to the histamine receptors (H1) in the body, blocking and relieving these unwanted allergy symptoms, all while being non-drowsy.
Fexofenadine in Allegra® products
Allegra® can relieve allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, hives, and a runny nose thanks to fexofenadine. You can choose between non-drowsy 12-hour relief and 24-hour relief options to manage allergy symptoms.
How should I take fexofenadine (and when you shouldn’t)?
Allegra® offers a range of fexofenadine products that can relieve allergy symptoms, such as Allegra® 24 Hour Tablets, Allegra® 12 Hour Tablets, Allegra® Hives, and more.
Allegra® 12 Hour and Allegra® Hives:
Adults and children aged 12 and above can take 1 tablet (60mg) every 12 hours with a glass (250 ml) of water. Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours.
Allegra® 24 Hour:
Adults and children aged 12 and above can take 1 tablet (120mg) once daily with a glass (250 ml) of water. Do not use for a long period of time unless advised by a doctor. For more information, always read and follow the label.
You shouldn’t take fexofenadine if:
- you’ve had an allergic reaction to it in the past.
Consult your doctor before taking fexofenadine or Allegra® if:
- you have kidney disease.
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- you are above the age of 65.
When using fexofenadine, do not:
- take more than directed.
- take it with antacids that contains aluminum or magnesium hydroxide, as they may alter the effectiveness of Allegra® (do not take within 2 hours of taking an antacid).
- do not take with fruit juices.
Potential side effects
Like with any medication, adverse results can arise with the use of fexofenadine. Make sure you check the warnings on the product label for any potential side effects.
When should you go to the doctor?
Although side effects from fexofenadine are rare, fexofenadine is generally safe to use. If you notice any of the following allergic reactions: rash, redness, swelling, difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
Frequently asked questions about fexofenadine
Fexofenadine tablets come in different strengths like 60mg which can be taken twice a day, and 120mg which is a stronger does that needs to be taken once a day by adults. Fexofenadine offers effective, fast-acting, and non-drowsy relief.
Yes, you can take fexofenadine regularly if you are using it to relieve symptoms of conditions like hay fever. Do not take for a long period of time unless advised by a doctor.
For fexofenadine to work effectively, avoid taking it with fruit juices, as it can affect the bioavailability of the drug. You should also avoid taking it with green tea, as this also lowers the drug’s efficacy.2
Fexofenadine, the active ingredient in Allegra®, is a non-drowsy antihistamine that is helpful in treating allergy symptoms such as itching, sneezing, a runny nose, and hives. It can be used by people 12 years of age and older. For proper use, always read and follow the label, and consult your doctor if your symptoms continue even after using Allegra
Allegra® is here to help
Allegra® offers multi-symptom relief from sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery, red eyes and itchy nose/palate/throat. For added relief from nasal congestion associated with seasonal allergies, there's Allegra-D®. Allegra®, Live your Greatness.
1. NHS. Fexofenadine. NHS.uk. Published October 14, 2021. Reviewed October 14, 2024.
2. Craun KL, Schury MP. Fexofenadine. [Updated 2022 Dec 5]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-.
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