Fexofenadine, is an oral, \"second generation\" antihistamine that is used to treat the signs and symptoms of allergy that are due to histamine.

Fexofenadine relieves the itchy, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, red, watery eyes that come with hay fever. Its effect begins in 1 hour and lasts 12 hours, peaking around the second or third hour.

Fexofenadine is one of the new type of antihistamines that rarely cause drowsiness.

Fexofenadine, is similar to the other second generation antihistamines loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and azelastine (Astelin). Histamine is a chemical in the body that stimulates the production of mucus and the dilation of blood vessels.

Allergy sufferers recognize histamine effects as a runny nose and swollen nasal passages. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and then attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine. The attachment of the histamine to the receptors causes the cell to be \"activated,\" releasing other chemicals that produce the effects that we associate with allergy, e.g., sneezing.

Fexofenadine blocks one type of receptor for histamine (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of H1 receptor-containing cells by histamine. Unlike the first generation antihistamines, and other second-generation antihistamines do not readily enter the brain from the blood, and, therefore, they cause less drowsiness.

Fexofenadine, was approved by the FDA in July, 1995.

Take Fexofenadine only as prescribed. The usual dosage of Fexofenadine is 1 capsule (60 milligrams) twice a day. People with kidney problems should take only 1 dose of Fexofenadine a day.

Overdose of Fexofenadine: An excessive dose of any medicine can have serious consequences. Seek medical attention whenever an overdose of Fexofenadine is suspected.

Symptoms of Fexofenadine overdose: May include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth.

If you miss a dose of Fexofenadine: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose of Fexofenadine, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses of Fexofenadine at once.

Storage instructions for Fexofenadine: Store Fexofenadine at room temperature. Protect blister packs from moisture.

Preparations of Fexofenadine:
Fexofenadine Tablets: 30 mg, 60 mg, 120 mg, 180 mg
Fexofenadine Capsule: 60 mg

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding:
The effects of Fexofenadine during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Fexofenadine appears in breast milk. If Fexofenadine is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing until your treatment is finished.

Most Important Fact about Fexofenadine:
Seldane, an antihistamine related to Fexofenadine, has been implicated in dangerous interactions with the common antibiotic erythromycin, the antifungal medication ketoconazole (Nizoral), and several similar drugs.

Fexofenadine poses no such risks. Fexofenadine is also safe for people with liver disease.

Side effects of Fexofenadine cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Fexofenadine.

Side effects of Fexofenadine may include: Colds or flu, drowsiness, fatigue, indigestion, menstrual problems, nausea.

Why should Fexofenadine not be prescribed ?
If Fexofenadine gives you an allergic reaction, avoid it in the future. Do not give the product to children under 12. Do not take Fexofenadine-D if you have glaucoma, urination problems, or severe high blood pressure or heart disease. Also avoid taking Fexofenadine-D within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate.

Special warnings about Fexofenadine:
Use Fexofenadine-D with caution if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, increased pressure in the eyes, prostate problems, or hyperthyroidism. Stop using it and check with your doctor if it causes nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness.