Allegra (Fexofenadine) is used for treating seasonal allergy symptoms.
What is Allegra used for?
Allegra 180mg tablets contain an active ingredient called "fexofenadine". It is one of a group of medicines called "antihistamines". Antihistamines relieve the symptoms of fever such as sneezing, itchy, watery red eyes and runny nose. Antihistamines are also effective at treating hives (Urticaria).
How should you take Allegra?
Take Allegra-D on an empty stomach with water. You can take regular Allegra with or without food. Allegra-D must be swallowed whole; do not chew or crush the tablet. If you miss a dose... Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Protect blister packs from moisture.
Allegra side effects: Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Allegra.
Side effects of Allegra may include: Colds or flu, coughing, drowsiness, fatigue, fever, headache, indigestion, menstrual problems, nausea, pain including back or ear pain. Also it may include: Abdominal pain, agitation, anxiety, back pain, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, heart palpitations, indigestion, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, respiratory tract infection, throat irritation.
Why should Allegra not be prescribed?
If Allegra or Allegra 120mg gives you an allergic reaction, avoid it in the future. Do not give either product to children under 6. Do not take Allegra if you have glaucoma, urination problems, or severe high blood pressure or heart disease. Also avoid taking Allegra within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate.
Special warnings about Allegra: Use Allegra with caution if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, increased pressure in the eyes, prostate problems, or hyperthyroidism.
Stop using it and check with your doctor if it causes nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Some of the inactive ingredients in Allegra tablets may show up in your stools; this is normal and nothing to worry about. Possible food and drug interactions when taking Allegra Check with your doctor before combining Allegra with erythromycin (E.E.S., Ery-Tab, PCE) or ketoconazole (Nizoral). These drugs may increase Allegra's effects. Allow a little time between a dose of Allegra and antacids such as Maalox that contain aluminum and magnesium. This type of antacid can decrease Allegra's effects. Allegra should never be taken within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as the antidepressants Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate. You should also avoid Allegra if you have a pacemaker and take digoxin (Lanoxin). And you should not combine it with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants.
Allegra should not be taken with fruit juices; combining the two can induce wheals (small itchy swellings) and rash-like symptoms. Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding: The effects of Allegra during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Allegra appears in breast milk. If the drug is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for Allegra:
Adults and Children 12 Years and Older For hay fever, the usual dosage is 60 milligrams twice a day or 180 milligrams once a day. For hives, it's 60 milligrams twice a day. If you have kidney problems, your doctor may have you take only one 60-milligram dose daily. Children 6 through 11 years old For hay fever or hives, the usual dosage is 30 milligrams twice a day.
Children with kidney problems may be prescribed only one 30-milligram dose each day. Children 12 Years and Older 12 - Hour Tablets: Take 1 tablet twice a day. People with kidney problems should take only 1 tablet daily. 24-Hour Tablets: Take 1 tablet once a day. Allegra 24-hour tablets should generally not be taken by people with kidney problems. Allegra is not recommended for children less than 12 years old. Overdosage An excessive dose of any medicine can have serious consequences. Seek medical attention whenever an overdose is suspected.