About Allegra

Allegra - or Fexofenadine hydrochloride - is a prescriptive drug which acts as an antihistamine, blocking histamine formation. The medication is usually applied to minimize allergy symptoms.

Uses or Indications

In most cases Allegra is used to treat sneezing, runny nose and itchy red eyes caused by hay fever. Some doctors also prescribe Allegra for hives treatment. Allegra-D contains pseudoephedrine - the nasal decongestant and it almost never leads to drowsiness.

How to take Allegra

Regular Allegra is taken with or without food, while Allegra-D implies a patient has to have an empty stomach and water to drink after. The tablet has to be swallowed in whole without being crushed or chewed.

Side Effects

Among the Allegra side effects body fatigue, headache, flu symptoms, indigestion, ear pain, menstrual problems, drowsiness, nausea, fever and back pains should be mentioned. As for Allegra-D, its side effects include back pain, headache, insomnia, palpitations, abdominal pain, respiratory tract infection, dizziness, throat irritation, nervousness and indigestion.
If you noticed any of the side effects listed above, and it is growing more intense, see the doctor immediately.

Drug Precautions

• In case Allegra and Allegra-D result in allergic reactions, stop using it.
• Allegra-D isn`t recommended to people with glaucoma, urination problems, heart disease or severe hypertension.
• Those who suffer from prostate problems, hyperthyroidism, heart disease, diabetes or hypertension should take Allegra-D with caution. Once the symptoms of dizziness, nervousness or sleeplessness are detected, the patient should stop taking the medication and see the doctor.
• The influence of Allegra on pregnant women hasn`t been tested adequately, so if you are pregnant you`d better consult with your doctor beforehand.
• As Allegra may impact breast milk, a nursing mother should either avoid the drug or stop breastfeeding.

Drug interactions

Such drugs as ketoconazole and erythromycin are likely to intensify Allegra`s side effects, thus before combining them you should ask your doctor.
If you take antacids containing magnesium and aluminum, like Maalox, take your time between taking two drugs; otherwise the efficacy of Allegra will decrease.
In case you used the antidepressants such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine sulfate, tranylcypromine sulfate or other MAO-inhibitor drugs, don`t take Allegra-D within 2 weeks after the therapy. Moreover, the medication shouldn`t be combined with Methyldopa, Mecamylamine and Reserpine, as well as with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants.
Allegra-D shouldn`t be mixed with digoxin.
Allegra-D also doesn`t go with fruit juices, as it can result in rash and itchy swelling symptoms.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, do not take attempt to catch up by taking a tablet right before your next scheduled dose. Just resume your next tablet at the regular time. Do not take more tablets than is prescribed for the day.

Overdosage

Symptoms of Allegra overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness and dry mouth. An excessive dose of any drug can have dire consequences. Look for medical help as soon as you detected the symptoms of overdose.

Storage

Store at room temperature and protect blister packs from moisture.