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

Allegra 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.

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

Allegra, 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's 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

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

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

Symptoms of Allegra overdose: May include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth. If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the

Check with your doctor before combining Allegra with erythromycin (E.E.S., Ery-Tab, PCE) or ketoconazole (Nizoral).

These drugs may increase Allegra's effects. , Nardil, and Parnate. Also check with your doctor before combining it with the following: Mecamylamine (Inversine), Methyldopa (Aldomet), Reserpine (Diupress, Hydropres). You should also avoid Allegra-D if you have a pacemaker and take digoxin (Lanoxin). And you should not combine it with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding:
The effects of Allegra 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 Allegra appears in breast milk. If Allegra is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing until your treatment is finished.

Most Important Fact about this Drug:
Seldane, an antihistamine related

Side effects of Allegra 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 Allegra.

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

Why should Allegra not be prescribed ?
If Allegra gives you an allergic reaction, avoid it in the future. Do not give the product to children