Brand name:
Allegra
Pronounced: ah-LEG-rah
Generic name:
Fexofenadine hydrochloride
Other brand name:
Allegra-D
Why is Allegra prescribed?
Allegra relieves the itchy, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, red,
watery eyes that come with hay fever. It is also used to relieve the
itching and welts of hives. Allegra is a type of antihistamine that
rarely causes drowsiness.
In addition to the antihistamine in Allegra, Allegra-D also
contains the nasal decongestant pseudoephedrine.
Most important fact about Allegra
Seldane, an antihistamine related to Allegra, has been implicated
in dangerous interactions with the common antibiotic erythromycin,
the antifungal medication ketoconazole (Nizoral), and several
similar drugs. Allegra poses no such risks. It is also safe for
people with liver disease.
How should you take Allegra?
Take Allegra-D on an empty stomach with water. You can take
regular Allegra with or without food.
--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
- Side effects of Allegra-D 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-D gives you an allergic reaction, avoid it
in the future. Do not give either product to children under 6.
Do not take Allegra-D if you have glaucoma, urination problems,
or severe high blood pressure or heart disease. Also avoid taking
Allegra-D within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as
Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate.
Special warnings about Allegra
Use Allegra-D 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.
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-D should never be taken within 2 weeks of using an
MAO-inhibitor drug such as the antidepressants Marplan, Nardil, and
Parnate. Also check with your doctor before combining it with the
following:
Mecamylamine (Inversine)
Methyldopa (Aldomet)
Reserpine (Diupress, Hydropres)
You should also avoid Allegra-D if you have a pacemaker and take
digoxin (Lanoxin). And you should not combine it with
over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants.
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
ALLEGRA
Overdosage
An excessive dose of any medicine can have serious consequences.
Seek medical attention whenever an overdose is suspected.
- Symptoms of Allegra overdose may include:
Dizziness,
drowsiness,
dry mouth
|
