How does Allegra work?

The exact mechanism of action of Allegra is unknown, but it is assumed that when the patient suffering from allergy take this drug, it is absorbed very fast in the body and start working by stopping the release of antihistamine. It happens by the competition between Fexofenadine and free histamines for binding with HA receptors. Thus it reduces the potency of the natural chemical histamines to reacts with allergens and improves the allergic symptoms.

What are the indications of Allegra?

• Allergic reactions like watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
• Seasonal allergy (hay fever).
• Idiopathic urticarial (redness and swelling on the skin).

What are the contraindications of Allegra?

• This medication cannot be used under the age of 2 years.
• In hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine or other ingredient of this drug.
• In high blood pressure.
• In pregnancy and lactating women.
• In hyperthyroidism
• In severe hepatic as well as kidney disorders.
• In stomach problem.
• In men who suffer from the disease related to prostate.

What are the drug interactions of Allegra?

• Aluminium and magnesium containing antacids.
• Erythromycin
• Ketoconazole
• Grape, orange and apple juice.
• Apart from that, always inform your doctor if you are taking any other medication.

What are the side effects of Allegra?

Some of the possible side effects of this medication are;

• Cough
• Fever
• Stomach upset

Talk to your doctor if the above mentioned symptoms worsen and become bothersome.

Some less serious side effects;

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Tiredness
• Nausea, diarrhea
• Menstrual cramps
• Muscle pain
• Back pain

Emergency side effects:

• Difficulty in breathing
• Swelling on the lips, face, throat or tongue.
• Fever with chills and rigors.
• Body ache.
• Cough and flu symptoms.

What are the dosage and method of taking Allegra?

For the children of 12 years and older:

• Recommended starting dose is 60mg once daily for the patient of hepatic problem. Then it can be increased up to twice in a day or 180 mg once in a day, depending on the intensity or requirement of the condition.

For the children of 6 years to 11 years:

• The recommended starting dose is 30mg, once in a day, should be taken with water in children who has liver or kidney problem. Your physician may increase the dose depending on the requirement.

For the children of 2 years to 6 years:

• The recommended dose is 30 mg (5ml), twice daily. For the patient of renal problem, the dose should be started at the strength of 30mg (5ml), once daily.

How should you store this medication?

You should always store this medication at controlled room temperature, between 20-25 degrees. Allegra comes in the blister pack and it should be protected from heat and moist. This medication should be kept out of the reach of pets and children.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since this medication is taken as per the requirement, it is not mandatory to follow a schedule. However, if you are following any schedule and miss a dose, you can take the dose the as soon as you remember about the dose. Skip the missed dose if you recall it at the time of the next schedule. Do not take a double dose.

What happens if I take an overdose?

You may catch some symptoms if you take an overdose such as drowsiness, dizziness or dry mouth. Bur it is always recommended to consult with your doctor if you take an overdose.

What are the precautions?

• Always avoid this Allegra if you are allergic to Fexofenadine or other components of this medicine.
• This medication should be taken in pregnancy only after the consultation with your physician, because increased dose of fexofenadine may lead to anomaly to the unborn baby.
• Allegra should be used with caution in the patient suffering from renal and hepatic disorders.
• Fexofenadine is secreted in the breast milk, so it should not be used in lactating women.
• Always avoid this medication if you are taking any aluminium or magnesium containing antacids.