Drug class
Fexofenadine is "an H1-receptor antagonist" - a selective, peripherally-acting antihistamine. Pharmacologic studies showed it "inhibited antigen-induced bronchospasm" and, unlike some older antihistamines, exhibited "no anticholinergic or alpha1-adrenergic blocking effects" and no evidence of sedative activity in animal studies.
Uses
Indicated in patients 6 years of age and older for: "relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis" and "treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria."
Warnings
No boxed warning. Contraindicated in patients with "known hypersensitivity to fexofenadine and any of its ingredients." The label advises fexofenadine "should not be administered simultaneously with aluminum and magnesium containing antacids." In pregnancy, use "only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus," and caution is advised during nursing since excretion into breast milk has not been established.
Dosage & administration
Directions adults and children 12 years of age and over take one 60 mg tablet with water every 12 hours; do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours children under 12 years of age do not use adults 65 years of age and older ask a doctor consumers with kidney disease ask a doctor
Active ingredient
Active ingredient (in each tablet) Fexofenadine HCl 60mg
Inactive ingredient
Inactive ingredients Colloidal Silicon Dioxide, Croscarmellose Sodium, Ferric Oxide Red, Ferric Oxide Yellow, Hypromellose, Lactose Monohydrate, Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Polyethylene Glycol 400, Povidone, Titanium Dioxide.
Side effects
In adults and adolescents 12 and older, the most common adverse reactions (vs. placebo) were headache (10.3%), back pain, and dizziness, pain in extremity, and dyspepsia (each ≥2%). In pediatric patients 6-11 years, higher rates of cough, upper respiratory tract infection, fever, and otitis media were reported.