Fexofenadine is an antihistamine which comes in tablet form. It’s used to treat a number of allergies including hayfever, conjunctivitis, eczema and insect bites or stings.
Fexofenadine works by intercepting the histamine receptors in the body. Histamine is a chemical which is produced in response to the presence of an allergen, it's what causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction to occur, setting off a chain reaction within the body. An antihistamine, like Fexofenadine, interacts with this process to stop the symptoms from flaring up, or by treating them if they do so that you no longer experience unpleasant symptoms.
Fexofenadine will start to take effect after one to two hours.
Fexofenadine is very effective provided you take it regularly as prescribed.
Fexofenadine hydrochloride is the active substance in the medicine.
The other ingredients are: powdered cellulose, mannitol (E421), maize starch, croscarmellose sodium, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate.
Tablet coating: opadry pink film-coating mixture containing hypromellose (E464), titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol 400, allura red AC lake (FD&C Red #40) (E129), and iron oxide, black (E172).
Please Note: Different generic brands of Fexofenadine may contain different inactive ingredients.
A 30mg dose of Fexofenadine can be taken with or without food, any higher dose should be taken before eating a meal. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a drink of water. Always take them as directed by your doctor.
Fexofenadine comes in three separate doses; 30mg, 120mg or 180mg. If you are taking it for hay fever then the usual dose is 120mg; 30mg for children under 12. The higher dose of 180mg is given to treat hives.
Fexofenadine should be swallowed whole. Do not split or crush the tablet unless it specifies on the packet that it's suitable to do so. This can make the medicine less effective as it stops it from being absorbed correctly by the body.
Fexofenadine is more potent than other antihistamines available. The dose and medication you are prescribed with will be specific to your allergy, the severity of it and the symptoms you experience.
Common side effects which may occur after taking Fexofenadine include:
If your heart rate increases or you experience heart palpitations after taking it then seek medical attention.
The signs of an allergic reaction include:
If this happens then seek emergency assistance.
Fexofenadine may not be suitable if:
Let your doctor know if any of these circumstances apply.
The following medications may interfere with the effects of Fexofenadine:
If Fexofenadine makes you feel sick then avoid rich, spicy foods until these side effects pass. Painkillers can be taken for headaches and make sure you drink plenty of water, particularly if you experience any dizziness. While Fexofenadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine, it can cause Drowsiness in some people. If this continues then you may wish to switch to an alternative non-drowsy antihistamine.
Drinking alcohol while taking Fexofenadine can make you feel sleepy so it's not recommended.
When you start taking Fexofenadine you should wait and see how it affects you before you drive. It's a non-drowsy antihistamine but it can occasionally cause drowsiness in some people.
Both hormonal and non-hormonal types of contraception are not affected by Fexofenadine.
Fexofenadine is not known to affect fertility in either men or women.
Fexofenadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine medication. This means it's less likely to make you feel drowsy in comparison to many other hay fever treatments. While it shouldn't cause drowsiness it can have this affect on some people, although it's uncommon.
There are some small lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your hay fever symptoms. Spending less time outdoors when the pollen count is high, avoiding having the windows open or fresh flowers in the house, wearing sunglasses and avoiding walking over freshly cut grass can help to avoid the onset of your symptoms. Smoking can also exacerbate hay fever.
Fexofenadine can be used alongside other hay fever treatments such as eye drops or nasal sprays. It is not recommended that you take Fexofenadine with other oral antihistamines. Always check with your doctor before mixing two types of medication.
Fexofenadine can be used to treat eczema, hives, insect bites or stings, conjunctivitis and certain types of food allergies.
Fexofenadine won't cause any harm if it's used for a long period of time. Depending on the nature of your allergy, you may only need to use it for a short time and it's best to only use it when required for example during pollen season.
Fexofenadine is a more potent antihistamine than those available over the counter. For this reason it is only available on prescription if your doctor thinks it will help you.
Fexofenadine is a stronger type of medication than most antihistamines which is why it is not available over the counter.
Carrying drugs and controlled substances when travelling to Qatar is highly regulated. You may need to apply electronically for prior permission to travel with your medication. For certain drugs this does not apply but you will still need to ensure you bring the prescription with you and any other relevant documents.
Prices from:
Non-drowsy antihistamine tablets
Non-drowsy antihistamine tablets
Anti-allergic eye drops
Steroid nasal spray
Non-drowsy antihistamine tablets
Antihistamine eye drops
Steroid nasal spray
Antihistamine nasal spray
Antihistamine nasal spray
Quick and discreet
Very friendly, active and reliable service
Dr Wahga