fexofenadine (fex-oh-fen-a-deen) Allegra, Children’s Allegra Allergy, Children’s Allegra Hives, Mucinex Allergy

 Indications

Relief of symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Management

of chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Action

Antagonizes the effects of histamine at peripheral histamine–

1 (H1) receptors, including pruritus and urticaria.

Also has a drying effect on the nasal mucosa.

Therapeutic Effects: Decreased sneezing, rhinorrhea,

itchy eyes, nose, and throat associated with seasonal

allergies. Decreased urticaria.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Metabolism and Excretion: 80% excreted in

urine, 11% excreted in feces.

Half-life: 14.4 hr (qin renal impairment).

TIME/ACTION PROFILE (antihistaminic effect)

ROUTE ONSET PEAK DURATION

PO within 1 hr 2–3 hr 12–24 hr

Contraindications/Precautions

Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity.

Use Cautiously in: Impaired renal function (qdosing

interval recommended); OB: use only if maternal

benefit outweighs potential risk to fetus; Lactation: Usually

compatible with breast feeding (AAP).

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

CNS: drowsiness, fatigue. GI: dyspepsia. Endo: dysmenorrhea.

Interactions

Drug-Drug: Magnesium and aluminum-containing

antacidspabsorption and may decrease effectiveness.

Drug-Food: Apple, orange, and grapefruit juice

pabsorption and may decrease effectiveness.

Route/Dosage

PO (Adults and Children 12 yr): 60 mg twice

daily, or 180 mg once daily.

PO (Children 2–11 yr): 30 mg twice daily.

PO (Children 6 mo–2 yr): 15 mg twice daily.

Renal Impairment

PO (Adults): 60 mg once daily as a starting dose.

PO (Children 6–11 yr): 30 mg once daily as a starting

dose.

Availability (generic available)

Tablets: 30 mgOTC, 60mgOTC, 120 mgOTC, 180 mgOTC.

Orally disintegrating tablets: 30 mgOTC. Gelcaps:

180 mgOTC. Suspension (berry flavor): 30 mg/5

mLOTC. In combination with: pseudoephedrine (Allegra-

D). See Appendix B.