The medication is manufactured by sanofi-aventis Pharmaceuticals.
When you come in contact with something you're allergic to, a chain reaction begins inside your body. During this chain reaction, special cells release powerful chemicals. Some of these chemicals can trigger swelling of the nasal passages, leading to nasal congestion (a "stuffy nose"). Other chemicals, such as histamine, can cause sneezing, itching, and irritation.
Allegra-D is a combination medication consisting of
fexofenadine and
pseudoephedrine. Fexofenadine (Allegra
®) is part of a class of drugs called antihistamines. As the name implies, Allegra blocks the effects of histamine. This leads to the relief of
allergy symptoms -- except for nasal congestion. Pseudoephedrine (the most common brand name being
Sudafed®) is a decongestant. It works by decreasing the swelling in the nasal passages, which improves the nasal congestion.
Prior to the Allegra-D's approval in the United States, one clinical study was conducted on 651 adults and adolescents.
In this study, people taking the medication had improved
allergy relief compared to the group of people not taking the medicine. This improvement was measured based on a symptom score that looked at changes in the following allergy symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose and/or throat
- Itchy, watery, and/or red eyes
- Nasal congestion.
When and How Do I Take Allegra-D?
Some general considerations for when and how to take this medication include:
- Allegra-D comes in tablet form. It is recommended that you take your dose on an empty stomach with a glass of water.
- Taking it with food should be avoided.
- Do not break, chew, or crush the tablets.
- The medication should be taken at the same time each day to help maintain an even level of medicine in the blood. Do not take it more often than directed.
- Allegra-D 12 Hour is usually taken twice a day. Allegra-D 24 Hour is usually taken once a day.
- Occasionally, the inactive components of Allegra-D may be eliminated in the feces looking very similar to the tablet.
- For the medication to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The type of Allegra-D
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medication you may be currently taking.
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
(Click Allegra-D Dosage for more information about dosing for Allegra-D in both adults and adolescents.)
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with
Allegra-D. Yet, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
In clinical studies, the most common side effects of this drug were:
Drug Interactions With Allegra-D
There are several medications that may potentially interact with Allegra-D.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider before taking this drug if you have:
Let your healthcare provider know if you:
- Are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant
- Are breastfeeding
- Have any allergies, including allergies to Allegra-D, Allegra, Sudafed, or adrenergic medicines.
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you may be taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines,
antacids, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Finally, make sure to contact your healthcare provider or call an ambulance immediately if you experience any breathing or swallowing difficulty.
If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek medical attention immediately.
Allegra-D overdose symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness.
Allegra-D should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture.
Keep Allegra-D and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Allegra-D?
If you forget to take a dose of Allegra-D, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule. Never take a double dose.
There are several strengths of Allegra-D available, including
This medication is available in generic form.
