Information on Allegra-D

Pronounced:ah-LEG-rah
Generic name:Fexofenadine hydrochloride
Other brand name: Allegra

Why is Allegra prescribed?

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.

In addition, to the antihistamine in Allegra, Allegra-D also contains the nasal decongestant pseudoephedrine.

Most important fact about Allegra

Seldane, an antihistamine related to Allegra, has been implicated in dangerous interactions with the common antibiotic erythromycin, the antifungal medication ketoconazole (Nizoral), and several similar drugs. Allegra poses no such risks. It is also safe for people with liver disease.

How should you take Allegra-D?

Take Allegra-D only as prescribed.

---If you miss a dose...

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

---Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Protect blister packs from moisture.

What side effects may occur with Allegra-D?

Side effects 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-D may include:

• abdominal pain
• agitation
• anxiety
• back pain
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• headache
• heart palpitations
• indigestion
• insomnia
• nausea
• nervousness
• respiratory tract infection
• throat irritation

Why should Allegra-D NOT be prescribed?

If Allegra or Allegra-D gives you an allergic reaction, avoid it in the future. Do not give either product to children under 12.

Do not take Allegra-D if you have glaucoma, urination problems, or severe high blood pressure or heart disease. Also avoid taking Allegra-D within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate.

Special warnings about Allegra-D

Use Allegra-D with caution if you have...

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• heart disease
• increased pressure in the eyes
• prostate problems
• hyperthyroidism

Stop using it and check with your doctor if it causes...

• nervousness
• dizziness
• sleeplessness

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Allegra-D

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.

Allegra-D should never be taken within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as the antidepressants Marplan, 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 the drug is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage

ALLEGRA-D

Take 1 tablet twice a day. People with kidney problems should take only 1 tablet daily.

Overdosage

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