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Allegra

Allegra (generic name: fexofenadine; brand names include: Telfast / Fastofen / Fexo-120 / Fexigra) is in a class of medications called antihistamines.

Allegra is indicated for:

relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients 2 years of age and older;
treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria in patients 6 months of age and older.

One dose of long-lasting Allegra provides powerful relief from seasonal allergy symptoms (like sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose or throat, or itchy, watery red eyes) for a full 24 hours. That's four times longer than one dose of most over-the-counter allergy medicines.

Many other seasonal allergy medicines come with warnings that they may cause drowsiness, so patients taking them should be cautious when driving a car or operating machinery. Allegra doesn't have this precaution, because it doesn't make you drowsy.

What Is Allegra (Fexofenadine)? Non-Drowsy Allergy Relief

Allegra is a second-generation antihistamine designed to relieve allergy symptoms without the sedating effects commonly associated with older antihistamines. Its active ingredient, fexofenadine, selectively blocks H1 histamine receptors in peripheral tissues. Because it does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, Allegra is far less likely to cause drowsiness, impaired alertness, or slowed reaction times compared to first-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine.

Patients often choose Allegra for daytime control of seasonal allergies (allergic rhinitis) and chronic hives (chronic idiopathic urticaria). Relief typically begins within one hour and can last a full 24 hours with once-daily dosing, making it a convenient option for consistent, non-drowsy symptom control.

Indications and Uses: Seasonal Allergies and Hives

Allegra (fexofenadine) is clinically used for the following conditions:

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) in adults and children 2 years of age and older. Common symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy nose or throat, and itchy, watery eyes.
  • Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) in adults and children 6 months of age and older. Allegra helps reduce hives and relieve associated itching.

Although Allegra is effective for many allergic symptoms, it does not relieve nasal congestion on its own. For congestion relief, some patients consider a combination product like Allegra-D, which adds the decongestant pseudoephedrine. Allegra-D is sold behind the counter in the U.S. with purchase limits due to pseudoephedrine regulations. Always read labels carefully to ensure you are choosing the formulation that matches your symptoms.

How Allegra Works: The Science Behind Fexofenadine

During an allergic reaction, your immune system releases histamine, which binds to H1 receptors and triggers symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, sneezing, and watery eyes. Allegra blocks the H1 receptors, preventing histamine from attaching and reducing those symptoms. Its peripheral selectivity and limited penetration into the central nervous system are the reasons it is considered a non-drowsy allergy medicine for most users.

Key points about Allegra’s pharmacology:

  • Onset of action: Often within 60 minutes, sometimes sooner.
  • Duration: Up to 24 hours with standard doses, enabling once-daily dosing for many adults and adolescents.
  • Food and beverage interactions: Fruit juices (orange, grapefruit, apple) can reduce absorption by inhibiting certain intestinal transporters, which can make Allegra less effective. See dosing instructions below.
  • Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism; primarily excreted unmetabolized via feces and urine.

Available Forms and Strengths: Tablets, ODT, and Oral Suspension

Allegra comes in multiple formulations to serve different age groups and preferences:

  • Tablets: Common strengths include 60 mg and 180 mg.
  • Orally disintegrating tablets (ODT): Typically 30 mg, often used in pediatric patients. These dissolve on the tongue.
  • Oral suspension (liquid): Often 30 mg per 5 mL, suitable for younger children who cannot swallow tablets.
  • Combination product: Allegra-D (fexofenadine + pseudoephedrine) for patients who need allergy relief plus decongestion. This is a different product with additional precautions.

Always verify the strength and formulation on the label to ensure appropriate dosing for the individual’s age, weight (for very young children), and indication.

Recommendations

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Allegra exactly as directed.

Allegra is usually taken with water once or twice a day. Allegra will work better if it is not taken with fruit juices such as orange, grapefruit, or apple juice. Take Allegra at around the same time(s) every day.

If you miss a dose of Allegra, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

If you are taking an antacid containing aluminum or magnesium (Maalox, Mylanta, others), take the antacid a few hours before or after Allegra.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture.

Detailed Dosing and Administration: Adults and Children

The following dosing information reflects typical U.S. over-the-counter and prescription guidance. Always follow the product label for your specific formulation or your clinician’s advice.

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis (adults and adolescents 12+ years): 180 mg once daily, or 60 mg twice daily.
  • Chronic idiopathic urticaria (adults and adolescents 12+ years): 180 mg once daily is commonly used.
  • Children 6–11 years: 30 mg twice daily for allergic rhinitis or CIU (tablet, ODT, or suspension as appropriate).
  • Children 2–5 years: 30 mg once daily or 15 mg twice daily (typically as oral suspension or ODT; follow product-specific labeling).
  • Children 6 months–2 years (for CIU, and for allergic rhinitis when labeled): 15 mg twice daily as the oral suspension. Consult a pediatric clinician for individualized dosing.

Special dosing instructions:

  • Take Allegra with plain water. Avoid taking it with fruit juices (orange, grapefruit, apple) because they can reduce absorption and effectiveness. If you do drink these juices, separate from your Allegra dose by several hours.
  • Separate doses from aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids by at least 2 hours (before or after), as these can bind the medication in the gut and reduce absorption.
  • Orally disintegrating tablets (ODT) should be taken on an empty stomach. Do not remove the ODT from its blister until ready to use. Place on the tongue and allow it to dissolve; do not take with water unless directed by the specific product label.
  • Allegra can be taken with or without food (except ODT preferences), but consistency helps maintain steady symptom control.
  • If you require decongestant relief, speak with a pharmacist about Allegra-D. Note that Allegra-D contains pseudoephedrine, which has restrictions and different dosing and safety considerations.

What to Expect: Onset, Duration, and Symptom Control

Most patients begin to feel relief within one hour of dosing, with peak effect typically within 2–3 hours. Symptom control persists up to 24 hours. If your allergy exposure is predictable (for example, daily morning outdoor activity during high pollen counts), taking Allegra at the same time each day can optimize coverage when you need it most. For hives, consistent daily use may reduce flare frequency and intensity over time.

Side Effects: What’s Common and What’s Rare

Allegra is generally well-tolerated. When side effects occur, they are usually mild and temporary.

  • Common side effects: headache, nausea, mild dizziness, dry mouth, indigestion, or back pain.
  • Less common: menstrual cramps, fatigue, cough, or mild drowsiness (rare compared to older antihistamines).
  • Allergic reactions: very rare but seek urgent care for rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue, trouble breathing, or severe dizziness.

If you experience bothersome side effects or new symptoms after starting Allegra, consult your healthcare provider to discuss dosage, timing, or alternative therapies.

Precautions

Before taking Allegra, tell your doctor if:

you are allergic to Allegra or any other medication;
you have or have ever had kidney disease;
you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Safety Considerations: Special Populations and Interactions

Use Allegra responsibly with attention to the following:

  • Kidney function: Fexofenadine is partially cleared by the kidneys. In moderate to severe renal impairment, a lower starting dose may be recommended (for example, adults may be directed to 60 mg once daily). Discuss your situation with a clinician.
  • Pregnancy: Human data have not shown major concerns when used as directed, but always consult your obstetric provider before starting any medication during pregnancy.
  • Breastfeeding: Limited data suggest low levels in breast milk with minimal infant exposure. Still, consult your pediatrician or obstetric provider before use.
  • Older adults: Typically well tolerated. Assess kidney function and overall medication profile for potential interactions.
  • Phenylketonuria (PKU): Some ODT formulations may contain phenylalanine. Check labels and avoid specific formulations if you must restrict phenylalanine.
  • Occupational caution: Allegra is non-drowsy for most users, but any antihistamine may cause mild dizziness or fatigue in some individuals. Until you know how you respond, use caution with driving or operating machinery.

Key drug and food interactions:

  • Fruit juices (orange, grapefruit, apple): Can reduce Allegra absorption and efficacy. Take Allegra with water and separate from these juices by several hours.
  • Antacids with aluminum or magnesium: Decrease absorption; separate by at least 2 hours.
  • Allegra-D and stimulants: Allegra-D contains pseudoephedrine, which may increase heart rate, blood pressure, and cause insomnia or jitteriness. Avoid other stimulants and consult your provider if you have hypertension, heart disease, thyroid disease, or glaucoma.
  • Alcohol: Allegra alone is non-drowsy; however, alcohol can impair alertness. Combine with care and observe personal response.

Who Should Choose Allegra? Comparing Antihistamines

Selecting an allergy medicine often depends on your symptoms, daily routine, and side-effect tolerance:

  • Allegra (fexofenadine): Fast onset, 24-hour coverage, minimal sedation in most users. Good daytime option for clear-headed symptom control.
  • Cetirizine: Effective but more likely than fexofenadine to cause drowsiness in some people.
  • Loratadine: Generally non-drowsy; may have slightly slower onset for some users compared to fexofenadine.
  • Levocetirizine: Potent but may be more sedating for some.

If nasal congestion is your primary complaint, an antihistamine alone may not be enough. Options include a short course of an intranasal steroid, saline rinses, or combination products like Allegra-D (with pseudoephedrine). Always match the treatment to the symptoms you need to control and consider your personal response and tolerability.

Practical Tips for Better Allergy Control

  • Time your dose: Take Allegra at the same time each day. Consider dosing before peak exposure (for example, early morning during high pollen seasons).
  • Check pollen counts: On high pollen days, keep windows closed, use air conditioning with a clean filter, and shower after outdoor exposure.
  • Avoid triggers when possible: Dust mites, pet dander, molds, and outdoor allergens can be reduced with simple environmental strategies.
  • Use a multimodal approach: For stubborn symptoms, talk to your clinician about adding a nasal steroid spray, saline irrigation, or ophthalmic antihistamine drops for itchy eyes.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Worsening symptoms despite correct dosing for several days.
  • Frequent hives or swelling that does not respond to antihistamines.
  • Signs of infection (fever, persistent sinus pain), wheezing, or shortness of breath.
  • Severe side effects or suspected allergic reactions to Allegra.

Allergy testing and a personalized plan may be helpful if symptoms are persistent or severe. Some patients with chronic urticaria receive higher-than-standard antihistamine doses under clinician supervision; do not change your dose without medical guidance.

Storage, Handling, and Missed Doses

  • Store at room temperature, protected from excess heat and moisture. Avoid bathrooms or hot cars.
  • Keep in the original container with the label intact.
  • If you miss a dose and it’s close to the next scheduled time, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
  • Dispose of expired medications according to local guidance or pharmacy take-back programs.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: fexofenadine.

Inactive Ingredients and Formulation Notes

Inactive ingredients vary by product and formulation (tablet, ODT, suspension). They commonly include excipients such as microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, and flavoring or sweetening agents in ODT or liquid forms. If you have known sensitivities (for example, dyes or sweeteners) or conditions like PKU, check the specific product’s inactive ingredient list before use.

Allegra vs. Allegra-D: Know the Difference

Allegra contains fexofenadine only. Allegra-D pairs fexofenadine with pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that relieves nasal stuffiness. While Allegra-D can be very helpful for congestion, pseudoephedrine may cause insomnia, jitteriness, elevated blood pressure, or rapid heartbeat in some users and is restricted in the U.S. to behind-the-counter sales with ID requirements and quantity limits.

  • Choose Allegra if you want non-drowsy antihistamine relief without a stimulant.
  • Consider Allegra-D if congestion is a prominent symptom and your clinician or pharmacist agrees it’s appropriate for you.

Frequently Overlooked Interactions: Fruit Juices and Antacids

Two practical points can make a real difference in how well Allegra works:

  • Fruit juices (orange, grapefruit, apple) can meaningfully decrease absorption of fexofenadine. Take Allegra with water, and separate juices by several hours.
  • Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium can bind fexofenadine and reduce its effect. Space them by at least 2 hours.

These small adjustments often improve symptom control for patients who initially feel that Allegra isn’t “working well enough.”

Overdose and Emergency Information

In case of accidental overdose, symptoms may include dizziness, drowsiness, or dry mouth. Seek medical advice promptly or contact poison control. Keep all medications out of reach of children and securely close bottles after use.

Quality, Generics, and Global Brand Names

Fexofenadine is available as a brand-name product (Allegra) and as generics in many regions. In some countries, it is sold under brand names such as Telfast, Fastofen, Fexo-120, and Fexigra. Generic fexofenadine must meet the same standards for active ingredient quality and bioequivalence as brand-name products. Patients often choose based on cost, availability, and formulation preferences.

Allegra U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy

In the United States, standard Allegra (fexofenadine) products for allergy and hives are widely available over the counter without a prescription for adults and many pediatric age groups, in multiple formulations and strengths. This OTC status allows most consumers to purchase Allegra directly from pharmacies, supermarkets, or reputable online retailers. Always buy from trusted sources to ensure product authenticity and appropriate storage conditions.

Important distinctions:

  • Allegra (fexofenadine) alone: Over the counter, no prescription required for labeled indications and ages.
  • Allegra-D (fexofenadine + pseudoephedrine): Sold behind the counter due to pseudoephedrine regulations. Purchases require government-issued identification, are subject to daily and monthly limits, and may vary by state. While a formal prescription is typically not required, pharmacists must comply with federal and state policies. Individuals with certain medical conditions should consult a clinician before use.

If you prefer assistance navigating OTC options or need a structured approach to obtaining Allegra as part of your care plan, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Jonesboro offers a legal and structured solution for acquiring Allegra without a formal prescription. Patients may be able to obtain Allegra through hospital-affiliated pharmacy services or coordinated discharge planning, ensuring that product selection, dosing, and potential interactions are reviewed appropriately. Contact the institution directly for details on availability, processes, and any service-specific requirements.

Whether purchasing OTC at a retail pharmacy or through a healthcare institution’s coordinated services, follow the labeled directions and consult a clinician or pharmacist if you have concurrent conditions, take other medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. This ensures safe, effective, and compliant use of Allegra for seasonal allergic rhinitis or chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Allegra FAQ

What is Allegra (fexofenadine) and what does it treat?

Allegra is a second‑generation, non‑drowsy antihistamine that relieves seasonal allergies (hay fever) and chronic hives (chronic idiopathic urticaria) by blocking histamine H1 receptors.

How fast does Allegra start working and how long does it last?

It typically starts relieving symptoms within 1 hour, reaches near-peak effect by 2–3 hours, and lasts about 24 hours with once‑daily dosing.

How should I take Allegra for best results?

Swallow with plain water. Avoid fruit juices (apple, grapefruit, orange) around the dose because they can reduce absorption; separate by at least 2–4 hours. Keep aluminum/magnesium antacids 2 hours apart.

What is the usual adult dose of Allegra for allergies?

Common doses are 180 mg once daily or 60 mg twice daily. For hives, 180 mg once daily is typical. Follow the product label or your clinician’s guidance.

What doses are used for children?

Ages 12+: adult dosing. Ages 6–11: 30 mg twice daily. Younger children use oral suspension or ODT formulations per label; ask a pediatric clinician for exact dosing.

Can I take Allegra every day during allergy season?

Yes. It’s intended for daily use during symptomatic periods and is also used long‑term for chronic hives under medical guidance.

Does Allegra make you sleepy or affect concentration?

It is considered non‑drowsy and less sedating than many antihistamines, but a small number of people may still notice mild sleepiness. Use caution until you know how you respond.

Which symptoms does Allegra help most?

It reduces sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose/throat, itchy/watery eyes, and hives/itching. It does not decongest a blocked nose unless combined with a decongestant (as in Allegra‑D).

Can I take Allegra with food or on an empty stomach?

Either is fine, but take it with water and avoid fruit juices near the dose because they can decrease absorption.

What side effects should I watch for?

Most people tolerate it well. Possible effects include headache, nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, or mild fatigue. Serious reactions are rare; seek care for rash, swelling, or breathing problems.

What medicines or drinks interact with Allegra?

Fruit juices can reduce absorption. Aluminum/magnesium antacids can lower levels; separate by 2 hours. Erythromycin and ketoconazole may raise levels but are usually not clinically problematic.

Can I drive or operate machinery on Allegra?

Most people can, but avoid risky activities until you know your individual response, especially if combining with alcohol or other sedatives.

What if I miss a dose?

Take it when you remember unless it’s close to your next dose. Don’t double up. Resume your regular schedule.

Is Allegra safe for long‑term use?

Yes, when used as directed. For persistent symptoms beyond a few weeks, or for chronic hives, check in with your clinician to confirm the diagnosis and plan.

Can I take Allegra with other antihistamines?

Generally avoid combining daily antihistamines unless your clinician advises it (sometimes done in refractory hives under supervision).

Is there a best time of day to take Allegra?

Choose a consistent time that fits your routine. Morning works well for daytime symptoms; bedtime is fine too because it lasts 24 hours.

Can I split, crush, or chew Allegra tablets?

Swallow tablets whole unless your tablet is scored and your clinician or pharmacist says splitting is acceptable. Do not chew ODT (orally disintegrating) tablets; let them dissolve as directed.

Is Allegra available over the counter?

Yes. Multiple strengths and forms (tablets, ODT, liquid) are available without a prescription in many countries.

Can Allegra help with nonallergic cold symptoms?

It may ease runny nose and sneezing, but it won’t treat congestion or shorten a cold. For congestion, ask about appropriate options or combination products.

What should I avoid while taking Allegra?

Avoid fruit juices near dosing, space aluminum/magnesium antacids by 2 hours, and use alcohol cautiously due to possible additive drowsiness.

Can I take Allegra after drinking alcohol?

Alcohol can enhance any sedating effect, though Allegra is usually non‑drowsy. If you’ve been drinking, consider skipping the dose until you can assess safety, and avoid driving or risky tasks.

Is Allegra safe during pregnancy?

Human data are reassuring but not definitive. Many guidelines prefer loratadine or cetirizine first due to more pregnancy data, but fexofenadine may be considered if benefits outweigh risks. Discuss with your obstetric clinician.

Can I take Allegra while breastfeeding?

Fexofenadine passes into breast milk in low amounts and is generally considered compatible. Loratadine and cetirizine also have good lactation safety records. Monitor the infant for irritability or poor feeding.

Should I stop Allegra before surgery or anesthesia?

Most patients can continue antihistamines before surgery, but always follow your surgeon/anesthesiologist’s instructions. Do not take Allegra‑D (pseudoephedrine) pre‑op unless cleared.

Is Allegra safe if I have kidney disease?

Fexofenadine is cleared by the kidneys. Dose adjustment may be needed in significant renal impairment. Ask your clinician or pharmacist for a tailored dose.

What about liver disease?

Allegra has minimal hepatic metabolism and usually doesn’t require dose changes solely for liver issues. Your clinician can advise based on your overall health.

Is Allegra okay if I have high blood pressure or heart disease?

Plain Allegra is generally safe. Avoid Allegra‑D (contains pseudoephedrine), which can raise blood pressure and heart rate.

Can children under 2 years use Allegra?

There are age‑specific liquid/ODT products with pediatric dosing; consult a pediatric clinician for children under 2 to ensure the correct dose and formulation.

How does Allegra compare with Zyrtec (cetirizine)?

Both work well for allergies and hives. Cetirizine may be slightly more potent for some people but is more likely to cause drowsiness. Allegra is less sedating for most.

Allegra vs Claritin (loratadine): which is better?

Both are effective and non‑drowsy for many users. Some find Allegra faster or more consistent; others prefer loratadine. Try one for 1–2 weeks; if control is suboptimal, switch.

Allegra vs Xyzal (levocetirizine): what’s the difference?

Xyzal can be very effective, especially for hives and nighttime itching, but tends to cause more drowsiness. Allegra is less sedating with a strong safety profile.

Allegra vs Benadryl (diphenhydramine): which should I choose?

Benadryl acts fast but is short‑acting and very sedating with anticholinergic side effects. Allegra is preferred for daytime and chronic use due to safety and minimal sedation.

Allegra vs Clarinex (desloratadine): how do they compare?

Both are long‑acting, low‑sedating second‑generation antihistamines. Efficacy is similar; individual response varies. Clarinex is prescription‑only in some regions.

Allegra vs Allegra‑D: when to use each?

Allegra treats allergy symptoms without a decongestant. Allegra‑D adds pseudoephedrine for nasal congestion but can cause insomnia, jitteriness, and raise blood pressure.

Allegra vs generic fexofenadine: is there a difference?

Generics contain the same active ingredient, dose, and expected effect as brand Allegra. Most people can use generics interchangeably.

Allegra vs cetirizine for hives: which works better?

Both help hives; cetirizine/levocetirizine may have a slight edge for itch control but can be more sedating. Allegra is a good option when avoiding drowsiness is a priority.

Allegra vs loratadine for seniors: which is safer?

Both are generally safe and non‑sedating. Allegra has minimal drug‑metabolism interactions; loratadine has a long safety record. Choose based on response and other medications.

Allegra vs hydroxyzine: when to pick one over the other?

Hydroxyzine is a sedating first‑generation antihistamine often used for severe itch or nighttime symptoms. Allegra is better for daytime use and fewer cognitive side effects.

Allegra vs levocetirizine for nighttime symptoms?

Levocetirizine may better control nighttime itch but can cause morning grogginess. Allegra is less sedating and better for people who need to stay alert.

Allegra vs bilastine: how do they differ?

Both are modern, low‑sedating antihistamines. Bilastine is not available in all countries and is more sensitive to food intake; Allegra has notable interactions with fruit juice. Efficacy is comparable person‑to‑person.