fexofenadine (OTC)

Brand and Other Names:Allegra, Allegra Allergy 12 Hour, more...Allegra Allergy 24 Hour, Children's Allegra Allergy, Mucinex Allergy

Dosing & Uses

AdultPediatric

Dosage Forms & Strengths

tablets

  • 30mg
  • 60mg
  • 180mg

oral suspension

  • 30mg/5mL

oral disintegrating tablets

  • 30mg

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis/Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria

180 mg PO qDay or 60 mg PO BID

Dosing Modifications

Renal impairment (CrCl <80 mL/min): 60 mg PO qDay initially

Administration

Allegra ODT: Allow to disintegrate on tongue, followed by swallowing with or without water; take on empty stomach; do not chew

Coadministration with grapefruit, apple, or orange juice reduces bioavailability of fexofenadine by inhibiting P-gp; separate administration by at least 4 hr

Dosage Forms & Strengths

tablets

  • 30mg
  • 60mg
  • 180mg

oral suspension

  • 30mg/5mL

oral disintegrating tablets

  • 30mg

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

<2 years: Use not recommended

2-12 years: 30 mg PO BID

>12 years: 60 mg PO BID OR 180 mg PO qDay

Allegra ODT

  • 6-12 years: 30 mg PO BID

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria

<6 months: Use not recommended

6 months-2 years: 15 mg PO BID

2-12 years: 30 mg PO BID

>12 years: 60 mg PO BID OR 180 mg PO qDay

Allegra ODT

  • 6-12 years: 30 mg PO BID

Dosing Modifications

Renal impairment (CrCl <80mL/min)

  • <6 months: Safety and efficacy not established
  • 6 months to 2 years: 15 mg PO qDay, initially
  • 2-12 years: 30 mg PO qDay, initially
  • >12 years: 60 mg PO qDay, initially

Administration

Allegra ODT: Allow to disintegrate on tongue, followed by swallowing with or without water; take on empty stomach; do not chew

Coadministration with grapefruit, apple, or orange juice reduces bioavailability of fexofenadine by inhibiting P-gp; separate administration by at least 4 hr

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Interactions

Interaction Checker

and fexofenadine

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            Contraindicated (1)

            • grapefruit

              grapefruit will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Contraindicated. Coadministration with grapefruit, apple, or orange juice reduces bioavailability of fexofenadine by inhibiting P-gp; separate administration by at least 4 hr

            Serious - Use Alternative (10)

            • erdafitinib

              erdafitinib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. If coadministration unavoidable, separate administration by at least 6 hr before or after administration of P-gp substrates with narrow therapeutic index.

            • isocarboxazid

              isocarboxazid increases effects of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Isocarboxazid should not be administered in combination with antihistamines because of potential additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. .

            • lasmiditan

              lasmiditan increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.

            • leniolisib

              leniolisib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Leniolisib, an OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitor, may increase systemic exposure of these substrates

            • metoclopramide intranasal

              fexofenadine, metoclopramide intranasal. Either increases effects of the other by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Avoid use of metoclopramide intranasal or interacting drug, depending on importance of drug to patient.

            • olopatadine intranasal

              fexofenadine and olopatadine intranasal both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.

            • sotorasib

              sotorasib will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. If use is unavoidable, refer to the prescribing information of the P-gp substrate for dosage modifications.

            • tepotinib

              tepotinib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. If concomitant use unavoidable, reduce the P-gp substrate dosage if recommended in its approved product labeling.

            • tranylcypromine

              tranylcypromine increases effects of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Tranylcypromine should not be administered in combination with antihistamines because of potential additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines.

            • trofinetide

              trofinetide will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Trofinetide (an OATP131 and OATP13B inhibitor) may increase plasma levels of OATP131 or OATP13B substrates. Avoid coadministration with sensitive substrates.

            Monitor Closely (51)

            • acrivastine

              acrivastine and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • amifampridine

              fexofenadine increases toxicity of amifampridine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Amifampridine can cause seizures. Coadministration with drugs that lower seizure threshold may increase this risk.

            • amisulpride

              amisulpride and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • apalutamide

              apalutamide will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by increasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Apalutamide weakly induces OATP1B1 and may decrease systemic exposure of drugs that are OATP1B1 substrates.

            • asenapine

              asenapine and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • asenapine transdermal

              asenapine transdermal and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • avapritinib

              avapritinib and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen

              benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • berotralstat

              berotralstat will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor or titrate P-gp substrate dose if coadministered.

            • bosutinib

              bosutinib increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • brexpiprazole

              brexpiprazole and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • brimonidine

              brimonidine and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • brivaracetam

              brivaracetam and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • buprenorphine subdermal implant

              buprenorphine subdermal implant and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • buprenorphine transdermal

              buprenorphine transdermal and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • buprenorphine, long-acting injection

              buprenorphine, long-acting injection and fexofenadine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • crizotinib

              crizotinib increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • crofelemer

              crofelemer increases levels of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Crofelemer has the potential to inhibit transporters MRP2 and OATP1A2 at concentrations expected in the gut; unlikely to inhibit systemically because minimally absorbed.

            • daridorexant

              fexofenadine and daridorexant both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.

            • diazepam intranasal

              diazepam intranasal, fexofenadine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration may potentiate the CNS-depressant effects of each drug.

            • donepezil transdermal

              donepezil transdermal, fexofenadine. Either decreases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • elagolix

              elagolix will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • eliglustat

              eliglustat increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Monitor therapeutic drug concentrations, as indicated, or consider reducing the dosage of the P-gp substrate and titrate to clinical effect.

            • eluxadoline

              eluxadoline increases levels of fexofenadine by decreasing metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor. Eluxadoline may increase the systemic exposure of coadministered OATP1B1 substrates.

            • encorafenib

              encorafenib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Encorafenib (a OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitor) may increase the concentration and toxicities of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 substrates. Closely monitor for signs and symptoms of increased exposure and consider adjusting the dose of these substrates.

            • esketamine intranasal

              esketamine intranasal, fexofenadine. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.

            • fostamatinib

              fostamatinib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of fostamatinib may increase concentrations of P-gp substrates. Monitor for toxicities of the P-gp substrate drug that may require dosage reduction when given concurrently with fostamatinib.

            • fostemsavir

              fostemsavir will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Fostemsavir inhibits OATP1B1/3 transporter. If possible, avoid coadministration or modify dose of OATP1B1/3 substrates coadministered with fostemsavir.

            • gabapentin

              gabapentin, fexofenadine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.

            • gabapentin enacarbil

              gabapentin enacarbil, fexofenadine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.

            • glecaprevir/pibrentasvir

              glecaprevir/pibrentasvir will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir may increase plasma concentration of drugs that are substrates of OATP1B1 or OATP1B3

              glecaprevir/pibrentasvir will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • istradefylline

              istradefylline will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Istradefylline 40 mg/day increased peak levels and AUC of P-gp substrates in clinical trials. Consider dose reduction of sensitive P-gp substrates.

            • ivacaftor

              ivacaftor increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Ivacaftor and its M1 metabolite has the potential to inhibit P-gp; may significantly increase systemic exposure to sensitive P-gp substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

            • juice (fruit)

              juice (fruit) decreases levels of fexofenadine by inhibition of GI absorption. Applies only to oral form of both agents. Use Caution/Monitor. Fruit juices inhibit intestinal organic anion transporting polypeptide.

            • letermovir

              letermovir increases levels of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Letermovir, an OATP1B1/3 inhibitor may increase plasma concentrations of coadministered OATP1B1/3 substrates.

              letermovir increases levels of fexofenadine by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • lomitapide

              lomitapide increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Consider reducing dose when used concomitantly with lomitapide.

            • lonafarnib

              lonafarnib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Lonafarnib is a weak P-gp inhibitor. Monitor for adverse reactions if coadministered with P-gp substrates where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious or life-threatening toxicities. Reduce P-gp substrate dose if needed.

            • lurasidone

              lurasidone, fexofenadine. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Potential for increased CNS depressant effects when used concurrently; monitor for increased adverse effects and toxicity.

            • midazolam intranasal

              midazolam intranasal, fexofenadine. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Concomitant use of barbiturates, alcohol, or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of hypoventilation, airway obstruction, desaturation, or apnea and may contribute to profound and/or prolonged drug effect.

            • nefazodone

              nefazodone will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • neratinib

              neratinib increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Neratinib inhibits P-gp transport. Caution if coadministered with a P-gp substrate with a narrow therapeutic index.

            • phenelzine

              phenelzine increases effects of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Comment: Coadministration of phenelzine and antihistamines may result in additive CNS depressant effects. MAO inhibitors also prolong and intensify anticholinergic effects of antihistamines. .

            • ponatinib

              ponatinib increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • pregabalin

              pregabalin, fexofenadine. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.

            • pretomanid

              pretomanid will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Increase monitoring for drug-related adverse effects if pretomanid is coadministered with sensitive OATP1B3 substrates.

            • quinidine

              quinidine will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            • sarecycline

              sarecycline will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Monitor for toxicities of P-gp substrates that may require dosage reduction when coadministered with P-gp inhibitors.

            • sofosbuvir/velpatasvir

              sofosbuvir/velpatasvir increases levels of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Velpatasvir inhibits OATP1B1, OATP1B3, and OATP2B1 transporters. .

            • tenapanor

              tenapanor decreases levels of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Tenapanor (an inhibitor of intestinal uptake transporter, OATP2B1) may reduce the exposure of OATP2B1 substrates.

            • tucatinib

              tucatinib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor. Consider reducing the dosage of P-gp substrates, where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious or life-threatening toxicities.

            • vemurafenib

              vemurafenib increases levels of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Use Caution/Monitor.

            Minor (36)

            • amiodarone

              amiodarone will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • atorvastatin

              atorvastatin will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • clarithromycin

              clarithromycin will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • clotrimazole

              clotrimazole will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • cyclosporine

              cyclosporine will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • dronedarone

              dronedarone will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • erythromycin base

              erythromycin base will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • erythromycin ethylsuccinate

              erythromycin ethylsuccinate will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • erythromycin lactobionate

              erythromycin lactobionate will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • erythromycin stearate

              erythromycin stearate will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • felodipine

              felodipine will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • fosphenytoin

              fosphenytoin will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • indinavir

              indinavir will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • itraconazole

              itraconazole will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • ketoconazole

              ketoconazole will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • lapatinib

              lapatinib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • levoketoconazole

              levoketoconazole will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • loratadine

              loratadine will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • lovastatin

              lovastatin will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • nicardipine

              nicardipine will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • nifedipine

              nifedipine will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • nilotinib

              nilotinib will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • phenobarbital

              phenobarbital will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • phenytoin

              phenytoin will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • quercetin

              quercetin will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • ranolazine

              ranolazine will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • rifampin

              rifampin will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • ritonavir

              ritonavir will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • simvastatin

              simvastatin will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • sirolimus

              sirolimus will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • St John's Wort

              St John's Wort will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • tacrolimus

              tacrolimus will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • tolvaptan

              tolvaptan will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • trazodone

              trazodone will decrease the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • verapamil

              verapamil will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by P-glycoprotein (MDR1) efflux transporter. Minor/Significance Unknown.

            • voclosporin

              voclosporin will increase the level or effect of fexofenadine by Other (see comment). Minor/Significance Unknown. Information suggests voclosporin (an OATP1B1 inhibitor) may increase in the concentration of OATP1B1 substrates is possible. Monitor for adverse reactions of OATP1B1 substrates when coadministered with voclosporin.

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            Adverse Effects

            Varies in incidence and severity with the individual drug; also, individual patients vary in susceptibility

            >10%

            Vomiting (6-12%)

            1-10%

            Headache (5-10%)

            Cough (4%)

            Diarrhea (3-4%)

            URTI (3%)

            Back pain (2-3%)

            Pyrexia (2%)

            Dysmenorrhea (2%)

            Dizziness (2%)

            Stomach discomfort (2%)

            Pain in extremity (2%)

            Somnolence (1-3%)

            Rhinorrhea (1-2%)

            Postmarketing Reports

            Sleep disorders (insomnia, paranoia)

            Nervousness

            Hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis, urticaria, angioedema, chest tightness, dyspnea, flushing, pruritus, rash)

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            Warnings

            Contraindications

            Hypersensitivity

            Cautions

            Allegra ODT contains phenylalanine

            Get emergency help if experiencing hives along with symptoms that include trouble swallowing, dizziness or loss of consciousness, drooling, swelling of tongue, swelling in and around the mouth, trouble speaking, wheezing, or problem breathing

            The symptoms may be a sign of anaphylactic shock; this condition can be life-threatening if not treated by a healthcare professional immediately

            Symptoms of anaphylactic shock may occur when hives first appear or up to a few hours later

            If the doctor prescribes epinephrine injections for anaphylaxis, or severe allergy symptoms that could occur with the hives, never use this product as substitute for the epinephrine injection

            If prescribed an epinephrine injector, carry it at all times

            Do not use to prevent hives from known causes including foods, insect stings, medicines, latex or rubber gloves, because this product will not stop hives from occurring; avoiding the cause of hives is the best way to prevent them

            If you do not know the cause of the hives, see a doctor for a medical exam; the doctor may be able to help find the cause

            Patients with kidney disease should ask a doctor; the doctor should determine if dose needs to be adjusted

            Do not take more than directed

            Do not take at the same time as aluminum or magnesium antacids

            Do not take with fruit juices

            Stop use if allergic reaction to this product occurs; seek medical help right away if symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment or the hives have lasted for more than 6 weeks

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            Pregnancy & Lactation

            Pregnancy category: C

            Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use with caution (AAP states “compatible with nursing”)

            Pregnancy Categories

            A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

            B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

            C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

            D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

            X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

            NA: Information not available.

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            Pharmacology

            Mechanism of Action

            H1 histamine receptor antagonist; competes for H1-receptor sites in target cells in the respiratory tract, blood vessels, and gastrointestinal tract; major metabolite of terfenadine

            Absorption

            Duration: ≥12 hr

            Peak serum time: 2-3 hr (tablet); 2 hr (ODT); 1 hr (suspension)

            Peak plasma concentration: 131 ng/mL

            Distribution

            Protein bound: 60-70%

            Metabolism

            Hepatic (5%)

            Elimination

            Half-life: 14.4 hr (31-72% longer in renal impairment)

            Excretion: Feces (80%), urine (11%)

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            Images

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            fexofenadine oral
            -
            180 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            60 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            60 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            180 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            180 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            60 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            180 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            60 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            180 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            180 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            60 mg tablet
            fexofenadine oral
            -
            180 mg tablet

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            Patient Handout

            Patient Education
            fexofenadine oral

            FEXOFENADINE 24-HOUR TABLET - ORAL

            (FEX-oh-FEN-a-deen)

            COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Allegra

            USES: Fexofenadine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.

            HOW TO USE: If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed with or without food, usually once daily.Take this medication with water. Do not take with fruit juices (such as apple, grapefruit, or orange) since they may decrease the absorption of this drug.The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.Do not take antacids containing aluminum and magnesium within 2 hours of taking this medication. These antacids can decrease the absorption of fexofenadine.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

            SIDE EFFECTS: Cough, fever, or stomach upset may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

            PRECAUTIONS: Before taking fexofenadine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

            DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also How to Use section.Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

            OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

            NOTES: Keep all medical and lab appointments.

            MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

            STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Different brands of this medication may have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

            Information last revised June 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.

            IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

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            Medscape prescription drug monographs are based on FDA-approved labeling information, unless otherwise noted, combined with additional data derived from primary medical literature.