Generic Allegra

Allegra, which is generically prescribed as fexofenadine, is commonly used to treat the symptoms of allergies. It blocks the histamine that causes itching, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing. It is a member of the family of medication known as antihistamines, and can also be used to treat the skin itching and hives associated with idiopathic urticaria.

Allegra is not appropriate for everyone. A thorough medical history should be assessed prior to prescribing this medication. Patients with a medical history that includes allergies to fexofenadine or kidney disease should not use this medication. Some patients with kidney disease may only require careful monitoring while on Allegra, depending on the disease and the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administrations has rated Allegra as a pregnancy risk category C which means that it is likely that this medication will cause harm or birth defects to an unborn baby. It has yet to be determined whether or not Allegra passes through the mother’s breast milk and affects a nursing baby. The prescribing physician should avoid prescribing this medication to a pregnant woman and should thoroughly discuss whether the benefits outweigh the risks prior to prescribing Allegra to a nursing mother.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Allegra, some of which are severe. A patient who is experiencing a serious side effect or an allergic reaction should seek immediate emergency medical intervention. An allergic reaction will present with symptoms that include facial swelling, including swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, and throat, hives, and difficulty breathing. Other serious side effects which require emergency medical attention include symptoms such as fevers, chills, body aches, or flu symptoms.

Other less serious side effects typically do not require immediate emergency medical care but should still be reported to the prescribing physician. Patients should be encouraged to report all side effects. Less serious side effects include symptoms such as drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, headaches, back pain, or menstrual cramps. Less serious side effects can often be reduced by reducing the dosage of the medication.

Allegra should be taken exactly as it has been prescribed by the physician. If the patient misses a dose, the dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid the potential for an overdose. If an overdose is suspected, the patient should seek immediate emergency medical treatment. An overdose will present with symptoms that include dry mouth, dizziness, and drowsiness, and possibly disorientation.

There is a risk of negative drug interactions associated with Allegra. Patients should be urged to inquire with the prescribing physician before taking any new medications including over the counter medications and herbal remedies. Medications with known negative interactions include Nizoral or erythromycin.

Patients should avoid antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium fifteen minutes before or after taking their prescribed dose of Allegra. Fruit juices, especially acidic juices such as apple juice, orange juice, and grapefruit juice can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb the medication. Fruit juices should be avoided while taking Allegra. Additional antihistamines should be avoided while undergoing drug therapy with Allegra unless the prescribing physician feels it is absolutely necessary.