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Home > Drug Category > Allergy Medication > Allegra 180 and Equivalent

Allegra 180 Information

Allegra 180 (Fexofenadine) is primarily used for relieving the symptoms of allergic conditions such as seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. It is also used to treat chronic hives/urticaria with no known cause, as well as other allergic conditions. Hay fever is a condition where the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens, such as pollen or dust, leading to symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. The active ingredient in Allegra is fexofenadine, which belongs to a class of drugs called second-generation antihistamines. It works by selectively blocking peripheral H1-receptors. In simpler terms, when your body encounters an allergen, it releases a chemical called histamine that is mainly responsible for producing those classic allergy symptoms. Fexofenadine steps in to block histamine from binding to its specific receptors on cells, effectively preventing or reducing the allergic reaction and the associated discomfort. Also, being a second-generation antihistamine, it offers some advantages over its first-generation counterparts as it doesn't cross the blood-brain barrier as easily, so it doesn't have as much sedative effect on the central nervous system.

Allegra 180 Side Effects

Some possible mild side effects of this medication include diarrhea, dizziness, dry eyes, fatigue, headache, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, stomach upset, and trouble sleeping. Contact your doctor if these common side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Abdominal pain

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Allegra 180 Precautions

Do not use this oral medication if you are allergic to fexofenadine or any other ingredients in Allegra 180. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Heart disease;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease

If you are due to have an allergy test, you may need to stop this medication before the test, as it may affect the results. Avoid alcoholic drinks while taking this medication. This medication is unlikely to cause drowsiness and dizziness, unlike the first-generation antihistamine. However, it is advisable to drive or operate machinery if you become drowsy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It is not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Fexofenadine may interact with other drugs and substances like apalutamide, leflunomide, velpatasvir, teriflunomide, and antacids containing aluminium or magnesium. Tell your doctor about all the medications, including herbal supplements, you are taking before using Allegra 180 to minimize the risk of interactions.

Take Allegra 180 tablets once a day with water. For optimal effectiveness, take it before you eat and at the same time each day. Please do not take it with fruit juice, such as orange, apple, or grapefruit juice, as these can reduce how well your body absorbs the medicine. If you also take antacids with aluminum or magnesium, space them at least 2 hours apart. Read the leaflet in the medication pack for specific usage instructions. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Allegra 180?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Allegra 180.