Fexofenadine tablets

About fexofenadine

Exposure to pollen can cause your body to produce allergic symptoms, called hay fever. Cells in the linings of your nose and eyes release a chemical called histamine when they come into contact with pollen. Histamine causes inflammation (rhinitis), which produces symptoms such as sneezing and a runny or blocked nose. It also causes red, watery and itchy eyes (allergic conjunctivitis). Fexofenadine, an antihistamine, stops the effects of histamine and this helps to relieve these symptoms.

Urticaria is a condition where an itchy skin rash develops. The rash may be triggered by an allergy or it can be caused by some other factor which may not be known. If the rash lasts for longer than six weeks, it is referred to as chronic urticaria. Fexofenadine is given to ease the symptoms of rash in people with chronic urticaria.

There are three strengths of fexofenadine tablet available - 30 mg, 120 mg and 180 mg. The 30 mg strength is for treating hay fever in children aged 6-12 years; the 120 mg strength is for treating adults with hay fever; and the 180 mg strength is for chronic urticaria.

Fexofenadine 120 mg tablets can be bought from pharmacies for the treatment of hay fever symptoms. The pharmacist will need to ask questions to make sure this medicine is right for you.

Before taking fexofenadine

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you (or your child) start taking fexofenadine it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to another antihistamine, or to any other medicine.

How to take fexofenadine

• Before you start treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. It will give you more information about fexofenadine and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Recommended doses of fexofenadine are:

• For adults with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever): 120 mg taken once a day.

• For children aged 6-12 years with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever): 30 mg taken twice a day, in the morning and evening.

• For adults with chronic urticaria: 180 mg taken once a day.

• You should take fexofenadine before a meal where possible. Some people find it helps to swallow the tablet with a drink of water. Try to take the tablets at the same time of day each day, as this will help you to remember to take them.

• If you do forget to take a dose, don't worry, but do remember to take your next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

• Some antacids can reduce the amount of fexofenadine your body absorbs. Because of this, it is recommended that you do not take indigestion remedies during the two hours before or during the two hours after you take a fexofenadine tablet.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Many people only need to take an antihistamine when they have symptoms. Unless you are told otherwise, you should stop taking fexofenadine once your symptoms have eased.

• Although fexofenadine is classed as a non-drowsy antihistamine, it can still cause drowsiness in a few people. If this happens to you, do not drive and do not use tools or machines.

• If you drink alcohol while you are on fexofenadine, be aware of its effects on you and do not drink more than moderate amounts. Alcohol can increase the risk of side-effects from antihistamines.

• If you are having an operation, or any treatment or tests (particularly if it is to test for an allergy), make sure you say that you are taking an antihistamine.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with an antihistamine. This is because a number of other medicines can increase the risk of side-effects.

Can fexofenadine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains the most common ones associated with fexofenadine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store fexofenadine

• Keep fexofenadine out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines