Allegra
® (
fexofenadine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat
allergies and hives. It is part of a class of medicines called "antihistamines." Allegra is also available with an added decongestant, known as
Allegra-D.
Allegra is manufactured by sanofi-aventis Pharmaceuticals.
What Is Allegra Used For?
Allegra has been licensed for several uses in adults and children six years of age and older. These uses for Allegra include:
- Relief of seasonal allergy symptoms (hay fever)
- Treatment of chronic (long-term) hives and itching, known as "chronic urticaria."
When you come in contact with something you're allergic to, a chain reaction begins inside your body.
During this chain reaction, specialized 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 is classified as an antihistamine. Allegra blocks the effects of histamine (hence its classification as an antihistamine). This can relieve allergy symptoms. However, since histamine is not the cause of nasal congestion, Allegra will not help open nasal passages.
Prior to Allegra's approval in the United States, a number of clinical studies were conducted on over 4,500 adults and children to determine the safety and effectiveness of Allegra. These studies analyzed the effects of Allegra on both seasonal
allergy symptoms and chronic hives. In these studies, people taking Allegra experienced relief of their symptoms compared to a group of people who did not take the medicine.
Allergy relief was measured based on a symptom score that rated changes in the following symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy nose or throat
- Itchy, watery, or red eyes.
Improvement in symptoms was seen between one and three hours after taking Allegra.
For chronic hives, the symptom score measured changes in itching and the number of hives.
When and How Do I Take Allegra?
General considerations for when and how to take Allegra include the following:
- Allegra comes in the form of tablets, orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs), and oral suspension (liquid). It is taken by mouth, usually once or twice daily.
- Allegra orally disintegrating tablets rapidly dissolve on the tongue. Be sure to swallow (either with or without water) after the tablet has dissolved.
- Be sure to shake Allegra oral suspension well just before each dose.
- For Allegra tablets and oral suspension, it does not matter if you take it with or without food. However, Allegra orally disintegrating tablets should be taken on an empty stomach.
- Allegra should not be taken with fruit juices, as juice may affect the way your body handles Allegra.
- Your Allegra dosage can be taken with or without food. Swallow the capsules or tablets with a drink of water.
- Your Allegra medication can be taken at any time during the day. However, it 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.
- For Allegra to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. Allergy symptoms will most likely return if you stop taking it.
The dose of Allegra your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- The severity of your symptoms
- Other medical conditions you have
- Other medication you are taking.
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose without specific instructions from your healthcare provider.
(Click Allegra Dosage for more information about dosing for Allegra in both adults and children.)
(The list below does not include all possible side effects of Allegra. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Allegra side effects with you.)
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Allegra. However, not everyone who takes Allegra will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate Allegra well. In most cases, Allegra side effects are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
Based on clinical studies, the most common side effects of Allegra occurring in either adults or children are:
Drug Interactions With Allegra
Several medications may potentially interact with Allegra.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Allegra?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Allegra if you:
- Have kidney disease
- Are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant
- Are breastfeeding
- Have any allergies, including allergies to Allegra or fexofenadine.
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, 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 problems or difficulty swallowing.
If you overdose on Allegra, seek medical attention immediately. Allegra overdose symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness.
Allegra should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture.
Keep Allegra and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Allegra?
If you forget to take a dose of Allegra, 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 double your dose of Allegra at one time.
Allegra is available in the following strengths and forms:
Some forms of Allegra are available in generic versions. Allegra is not available over the counter.
(Click Generic Allegra for more information including the available forms and strengths.)
