Fexofenadine is a prescription medication that relieves allergy symptoms caused by various irritants, such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antihistamines, specifically designed to alleviate allergic reactions in the body.

Fexofenadine is available in its generic form or under various brand names, with Allegra being one of the most well-known.

This medication is available over the counter (OTC) without a prescription.

Fexofenadine is prescribed to treat a range of allergy symptoms, including:

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: Symptoms such as sneezing, runny or itchy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the throat or nose caused by seasonal allergies like pollen.

Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: Similar symptoms as seasonal allergic rhinitis but caused by allergens that are present year-round, such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold.

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: A condition characterized by chronic hives (raised, itchy welts on the skin) of unknown cause.

Fexofenadine has been shown to cause some mild side effects. If these adverse effects do not go away within a few days, talk to your healthcare provider.

Mild side effects reported from fexofenadine use include:

• Headache
  
• Nausea
  
• Upset stomach
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Drowsiness (although less likely than with some other antihistamines)
  
• Dizziness
  
• Dry mouth
  
  

More serious side effects include:

• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Swelling in the face, throat, hands, feet, or ankles
  
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  
• Hoarseness
  
  

Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. These are signs of a severe adverse reaction or overdose requiring medical treatment.

Before using fexofenadine, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with fexofenadine.

You should tell your provider if you are taking:

CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Some medications that inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes in the liver may increase fexofenadine levels in the bloodstream, potentially leading to increased side effects. Examples of CYP3A4 inhibitors include ketoconazole and erythromycin.

Fruit Juices: Consuming grapefruit juice or other citrus juices may interfere with fexofenadine absorption, reducing its effectiveness. Separate by at least 4 hours.

Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium: These antacids may decrease the absorption of fexofenadine. Separate by at least 2 hours.

It's important to follow the dosing instructions on the label and not exceed the recommended dose. If you have severe kidney problems, your doctor may adjust your dosage.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using fexofenadine to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.

The recommended fexofenadine dosage can vary depending on the patient's age and the specific condition being treated. It is typically taken as an oral tablet with or without food. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage and treatment duration for your condition.

Do not discontinue or increase your fexofenadine dosage without consulting your doctor first.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of fexofenadine.

Fexofenadine is currently available over the counter.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription during a virtual or in-person visit. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not fexofenadine might be right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances. For more information about controlled substances, check out the Drug Enforcement Agency’s scheduling guidelines here.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription for fexofenadine to be picked up near you—often within the same day. Don’t wait to get your prescription filled. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.

Fexofenadine is a generic drug. It’s available in its generic form or under brand names like:

• Allegra