Fexofenadine

Fexofenadine is a member of the antihistamine or anti-allergic class of medications. It is mostly used to treat different allergies. It is possible to treat medical conditions using Fexofenadine, a selective peripheral H1-blocker. The active ingredient in Fexofenadine is Fexofenadine, a non-drowsy antihistamine. Although some people still report feeling sleepy after taking it, it is used to treat allergies because it inhibits the actions of histamine, a chemical typically associated with allergic reactions.

What are the uses of Fexofenadine?

Fexofenadine treats allergy symptoms, including itching, sneezing, and irritation. These symptoms include watery eyes, runny noses, and itchy eyes and noses. It prevents your body from producing natural histamine when you experience an allergic reaction.

When and how to use Fexofenadine?

Before taking this medicine, read the instructions on the packet if you're using the over-the-counter medicine to treat yourself. Take the medication as advised by your doctor, often twice daily, if it has been prescribed to you. This medication can be used with or without meals and liquids.

If you take a quickly dissolving pill, do it first thing in the morning. Do not eat anything before taking this medicine. Keep the tablet in the pack until you're ready to take it. Before swallowing, let the pill fully dissolve. Use regular doses of your medicine. If you take the oral suspension of this medication, shake the bottle thoroughly before each dose and precisely measure the prescribed amount using a suitable measuring tool or spoon. Juices from apples, grapefruits, and oranges should not be consumed with this medication since they may lessen its absorption. Take this medicine at least two hours before taking any antacids, including aluminum or magnesium. These antacids may reduce the absorption of Fexofenadine.

Warnings

Avoid consuming fexofenadine in conjunction with fruit juices like apple, orange, or grapefruit. The interaction between fexofenadine and these juices may affect the absorption and effectiveness of the medication, so it's best to take it with water or as directed by your healthcare provider.

What are the side effects of Fexofenadine?

• Headaches, feeling drowsy, having a dry mouth, feeling ill, and dizziness are common adverse effects.
• It's possible to get a cough, fever, or stomach ache. Inform your doctor or chemist immediately if any of these symptoms persist or worsen.
• Symptoms of an ear infection include earache, hearing difficulties, and ear discharge.
• Rarely does this medication cause an extremely severe allergic response. Nevertheless, get immediate medical attention if you have any major allergic reaction symptoms, such as a rash, itching, or swelling (particularly of the face, tongue, or neck), extreme dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

What precautions should be taken?

• If you have an allergy to Fexofenadine, other medicines, or any of the substances in Fexofenadine pills or suspension, let your doctor and chemist know immediately.
• Inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal items you intend to use. Your doctor might need to adjust the dosage of your drugs or keep a close eye on you for adverse effects.
• If you have kidney problems, let your doctor know.
• Use the antacid several hours before or after taking the Fexofenadine if the antacid contains aluminum or magnesium (Maalox, Mylanta, etc.).
• Juices from fruits like grapefruit, apple, or orange should not be used with medication since they may reduce the drug's absorption. So, you should always take the medication with water.
• This medication can be considered during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary. Before using this medication, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

What if I missed the dose of Fexofenadine?

Take your missed dose of Fexofenadine as soon as you remember it if you take it once daily unless it is almost time for your next dose. If you miss a dose, omit it and take your next dose as scheduled. Never take two doses at once to make up for missed ones.

What if there is an overdose of Fexofenadine?

In general, Fexofenadine is highly secure. It is unlikely that taking more than your regular dosage would hurt you. However, you can experience some of the typical adverse effects if you take an excessive amount. You should speak with your doctor if this occurs or if you are worried. Contact your nearby hospital immediately if the patient has fallen, has a seizure, has difficulty breathing, or cannot be roused.

What are the storage conditions for Fexofenadine?

• Do not allow children or animals access to this medication.
• Keep items at 20 to 25C of room temperature (68 - 77F) and safeguard against dampness.
• Remove only immediately before using the original blister packing.
• Any unused medicine after the expiration date should be thrown away.

Caution with other medicine

Your medications' effects may change due to drug interactions, and you may have serious adverse effects. When used with other drowsy-inducing medications, Fexofenadine can aggravate this effect. Before using an opioid, a sleeping aid, a muscle relaxant, or a prescription for seizures or anxiety, see your doctor. Before using Fexofenadine with any other drugs, consult your doctor, especially if you are taking:

• Ketoconazole

• Erythromycin

How quickly does Fexofenadine show results?

Fexofenadine's effects show after two hours of oral administration and persist for roughly twenty-four hours. The medicine persists for 11 to 15 hours in your system.

Fexofenadine vs Loratadine

FAQs

1. Does Fexofenadine stop a runny nose? 

Fexofenadine, an antihistamine, can help alleviate symptoms of a runny nose caused by allergies. It may also relieve other allergy symptoms such as sneezing and itchy or watery eyes.

2. Which is better: Fexofenadine or Loratadine? 

Both Fexofenadine and Loratadine are effective antihistamines. The healthcare provider may prescribe any antihistamine based on the overall health condition of the patient. 

3. What is the purpose of Fexofenadine?

The purpose of Fexofenadine is to manage allergy symptoms, including runny nose, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes, by blocking the effects of histamine in the body.

4. What are the Fexofenadine side effects?

Possible side effects of Fexofenadine can include headache, dizziness, and dry mouth, although they are generally mild. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience severe side effects.

5. How quickly does Fexofenadine work? 

Fexofenadine often starts working within one to two hours after consumption, with its peak effectiveness reached in about two to three hours. It provides 24-hour relief, making it suitable for once-daily dosing.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-13823-2204/Fexofenadine-oral/Fexofenadine-oral/details https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/Fexofenadine/
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697035.html
https://www.drugs.com/Fexofenadine.html#interactions

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.