Allegra (Fexofenadine)

It's common to have cold-like symptoms during certain times of the year. Sneezing, nasal congestion, watery eyes, and a runny nose are some of the most common ones. If you or your children have these symptoms, you may wonder whether they're related to the weather.

Often, though, the cause is what's commonly called hay fever. These are seasonal allergies. While there are different types, seasonal allergic rhinitis is especially common. It happens when spores and pollen from plants, flowers, and trees are in the air we breathe.

In some people, these particles, called allergens, trigger the immune system to release histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream. Histamine is what causes the symptoms mentioned above.

To help counter the effects of this substance in the body, you can use an antihistamine medication. Allegra (fexofenadine) is a well-known medication in this group. It helps relieve the symptoms listed above in children and adults. Allegra is not used only for allergies, though. It can also be used to treat urticaria and other conditions. Allegra is sold over the counter and is also available as a generic.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at Allegra. You'll learn about its uses, recommended dose, and possible side effects. This information can help you decide whether this medication is right for you and, if it is, how to use it properly.

What Is Allegra (Fexofenadine)?

Common questions people ask are, "What is this medication?" and "What is Allegra usually used for?" Allegra is a non-drowsy (second-generation) antihistamine that contains the active ingredient fexofenadine (C₃₂H₃₉NO₄). This chemical compound has a molar mass of 501.667 g/mol and belongs to the group of so-called H₁ blockers or H₁ antagonists. Allegra is effective for treating seasonal allergies, urticaria, and other immune system reactions.

Another common question is, "How long does Allegra normally take to work?" In general, the medication starts working within about 30 minutes. Its effect usually peaks 1 to 2 hours after a dose. What does Allegra do while it's working? In simple terms, this medication blocks the effects of histamine in the body. That means it helps relieve symptoms, but it does not cure the underlying cause.

Allegra can be used by both adults and children and is sold over the counter. This means you can buy it without a prescription. However, pediatric Allegra may be available by prescription only.

When you buy this medication without a prescription, read and understand the directions included in the package. Do not take the medication if you are not fully sure what the right dose is for you. If you have any doubts, ask your pharmacist.

Allegra is sold as tablets, including regular tablets and orally disintegrating tablets. More details are provided in the next subsection. There is also an oral suspension, which is the pediatric dosage form. In most cases, this medication is taken twice daily. However, there is one dosage form that is taken once daily. It is not recommended to use it for more than 5 consecutive days.

The last question people often ask is, "What is the best antihistamine?" or "Is Allegra the best antihistamine?" Most antihistamines on the market are effective. They all work against the effects of histamine. However, when drowsiness needs to be avoided, Allegra may be a better option.

Dosage Forms

As mentioned above, Allegra is available in 3 different dosage forms. All of them can usually be found at most pharmacies. Below is a closer look at each commercially available form.

Tablets

Allegra is available as regular tablets in 2 different strengths of the active ingredient. They are sold over the counter under the brand names "12 Hour Allegra" and "24 Hour Allegra." In both cases, the active ingredient is fexofenadine hydrochloride (HCl).

You may notice that the word "hydrochloride" has been added to the name of the active ingredient compared with what was mentioned earlier. Here is a brief explanation. Many medications are originally made as either a weak acid or a base. However, in many cases, the human body cannot absorb the drug well in either of these forms. Poor absorption would make the medication much less useful because it would not have the intended effect.

To improve poor absorption, a drug in acid or base form can be converted into a salt form through chemical processes. A drug in salt form may also dissolve better. Dissolution is the process by which the drug is released from the dosage form, such as a tablet, into the body.

For this reason, pure fexofenadine is chemically converted into fexofenadine HCl to improve water solubility and bioavailability. This helps the antihistamine be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and distributed quickly through the bloodstream.

As you might expect, 12 Hour Allegra contains less fexofenadine HCl than 24 Hour Allegra. The first contains 60 mg per tablet, while the second contains 180 mg. Each tablet also contains inactive ingredients. You can find the full list of ingredients for each tablet on the product package. 12 Hour Allegra is sold in a package of 24 tablets, while 24 Hour Allegra comes in a package of 20 tablets.

The same 180 mg strength of fexofenadine HCl is also available as "24 Hour Allegra Gelcaps." This form is sold in a package of 24 gelcaps. The inactive ingredients are different from those in the regular tablets, so for the full list of ingredients for this dosage form, check the package or the directions inside.

Knowing the ingredients in a specific dosage form matters for several reasons. A doctor can determine whether the medication is appropriate for you. They can also assess whether any of its ingredients could interact with other medications you take. The risk of allergic reactions or other complications can also be assessed more easily.

Oral suspension

Children's Allegra is available as an oral suspension. As mentioned, this dosage form is not sold without a prescription. In this form, the active ingredient is the same, fexofenadine HCl, but the concentration is lower. This dosage form has a concentration of 30 mg per 5 ml. In addition to the active ingredient, the suspension contains several inactive ingredients. As in the previous cases, check the package insert for the full list of ingredients.

Oral disintegrating tablets

For both children and adults, there is another dosage form that can be easier to take and dissolve. These are orally disintegrating tablets, which melt in the mouth. They are recommended for children who cannot swallow regular tablets. Each orally disintegrating tablet contains 30 mg of fexofenadine HCl. This dosage form is available in packages of 12 orally disintegrating tablets.

Indications

For your safety, before taking Allegra, make sure you understand how to use it. This is especially important if you buy it without a prescription. If a doctor prescribes it, take Allegra exactly as directed.

If you have kidney disease, a doctor should decide whether fexofenadine is suitable for you. It is also a good idea to tell them about any other conditions you may have, such as diabetes. To help avoid interactions, tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.

If the suspension form will be given to your child, shake the bottle well first. Measure the dose in millilitres using a proper measuring device, such as a dosing spoon. Do not use a household teaspoon or any other device that does not clearly measure the right dose. Taking too little may not work properly, while taking too much increases the risk of overdose.

It is generally best to take all dosage forms without food. However, the regular tablets and the suspension can be taken with food if you prefer. The orally disintegrating tablets should always be taken without food and on an empty stomach.

In general, you do not need any liquids. However, if needed, you can drink a glass of water. Do not use natural or artificial juices with this dosage form, as they may interfere with absorption of the active ingredient.

Dosage Considerations

If a doctor prescribes Allegra, they will decide on the best dose for you based on several factors. Your age, clinical condition, body weight, and response to fexofenadine will all be considered. In Canada, the physician will also recommend the best dosage form for you. However, if you choose to buy Allegra over the counter, follow the directions on the package.

For regular 12 Hour Allegra tablets, the doses should be taken as indicated below:

• Children +12 y.o. and adults must take 1 tablet every 12 hours (2 tablets a day);
• Children -12 y.o. must not use this medication;
• Adults +65 y.o. and patients with kidney problems must consult a physician to ensure that this medication is safe in their particular cases.

For regular 24 Hour Allegra tablets, the doses should be taken as indicated below:

• Children +12 y.o. and adults must take 1 tablet every 24 hours (1 tablet a day);
• Children -12 y.o. must not use this medication;
• Adults +65 y.o. and patients with kidney problems must consult a physician to ensure that this medication is safe in their particular cases.

The last directions also apply to 24 Hour Allegra Gelcaps.

For the oral suspension, the doses should be taken as indicated below:

• Children +12 y.o. and adults must take 10 ml every 12 hours (20 ml a day);
• Children between 2 and 12 years of age must take 5 ml every 12 hours (10 ml a day);
• Children -2 y.o., adults +65 y.o., and patients with kidney problems must consult a physician to ensure that this medication is safe in their particular cases.

For orally disintegrating tablets, the doses should be taken as indicated below:

• Children +12 y.o. and adults must take 2 tablets every 12 hours (4 tablets a day);
• Children between 6 and 12 years of age must take 1 tablet every 12 hours (2 tablets a day);
• Children -6 y.o., adults +65 y.o., and patients with kidney problems must consult a physician to ensure that this medication is safe in their particular cases.

The orally disintegrating tablets must be taken on an empty stomach.

In all cases, do not take more or less than the indicated dose, and do not continue treatment longer than directed. Doing so will not produce better or faster results and may be harmful to your health. Taking a higher dose increases the risk of side effects. If your condition does not improve after treatment, or if it gets worse, see a doctor right away.

Before taking this medicine

Allegra is considered safe for most people. However, to reduce the risk of side effects or a severe allergic reaction, do not take it if you are allergic to fexofenadine. Also, speak with a doctor in the following situations.

Ask a doctor before use

If you have or have had kidney disease, talk to a doctor before taking Allegra. If you have diabetes, ask whether this medication is suitable for you. Orally disintegrating tablets and oral suspension contain aspartame, which may not be appropriate for people with diabetes. Also, inform the physician about all other medications that you are taking and whether you will undergo surgery soon.

If pregnant or breast-feeding

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon. There may be risks to the unborn baby if Allegra is taken during pregnancy. Your doctor will decide whether the benefits of using this medication outweigh the risks. A doctor should also decide whether Allegra is suitable for you if you are breast-feeding. Fexofenadine can pass to the baby through breast milk.

What happens if I miss a dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. In most cases, you do not need to follow a strict schedule exactly. Never double a dose to make up for a missed one, as this could lead to an overdose.

What happens if I overdose

If you take too much, get medical help. See a doctor if you have a dry mouth or feel dizzy or drowsy. Get emergency medical help if you have trouble breathing or feel like you might faint. Call emergency services or a poison control centre.

How should I take Allegra?

As mentioned above, always follow your doctor's directions for taking Allegra. Otherwise, follow the directions on the package. Do not take any antacid within 15 minutes before or after taking any dosage form. These medications can interfere with absorption of the active ingredient. Also, do not drink any natural or artificial juice with Allegra.

Regular tablets should be taken with a glass of water. Do not take them with juice, as this can reduce how well the tablet works. Swallow the tablet whole without chewing or biting it. For the liquid dosage form, shake the bottle before taking the dose.

Orally disintegrating tablets require a bit more care. Follow these directions:

• Do not remove the tablet from its blister until you are ready to take the dose;
• When you are ready to take it, remove the tablet carefully so it does not get damaged. Make sure your hands are dry when doing this;
• Place the tablet on your tongue. It will begin to dissolve with your saliva, without needing water;
• Do not chew, bite, or swallow the tablet whole. Let it dissolve on its own;
• Swallow as the tablet dissolves. If needed, you can drink some water. Do not drink any other type of liquid.

Ideally, you should take this dosage form at least 1 hour before a meal. Alternatively, you can take it 2 hours after eating.

Side Effects

Like any other medication, Allegra can cause unwanted effects. Some side effects may be mild and go away on their own. Others may require urgent medical attention. The healthcare professional prescribing this medication will always weigh the benefits against the risks. In most cases, you will not experience side effects from Allegra.

Common side effects

You may experience mild side effects from Allegra such as:

• Cough or flu-like symptoms;
• Fever, headache, and/or chills;
• Diarrhea, nausea, or other stomach problems;
• Drowsiness or tiredness;
• Menstrual cramps or back pain;
• Muscle pain.

Other unwanted effects may also occur, even if they are not listed above. In most cases, these effects go away quickly and do not need medical attention. However, if these Allegra side effects do not go away after some days, you should go to a doctor. If any of the above problems get worse, stop taking Allegra and get medical attention.

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention

You should get emergency medical attention if you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction to Allegra. Although a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to fexofenadine is very uncommon, it can be fatal if it happens. Go to the hospital right away if:

• You develop a rash, hives, or itching;
• You cannot breathe normally;
• Your face, lips, and/or tongue begin to swell;
• You feel severely dizzy.

Call emergency services if you cannot get to the hospital right away on your own.

What other drugs will affect Allegra?

The interaction between antacids and Allegra was mentioned earlier. To enable a thorough assessment inform the doctor about any other drugs that you may be taking. These include prescription medications, non-prescription medications, dietary supplements, and herbal products. You should also tell them about any recreational drugs you use regularly or occasionally.

Medications that cause sleepiness are especially important when checking for possible interactions. Tell your doctor if you take sleeping pills, pain medications, sedatives, or similar drugs. Also let them know if you have a mental health condition and take medication for it. While you are being treated with Allegra, avoid drinks with a high alcohol content.

Storage

Always keep Allegra out of reach of children. Store this medication in a dry place at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Discard the medication if the blisters, carton, or bottle are open. Check the expiry date as well. Discard any medications that have expired.