fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine extended-release – oral, Allegra D
Medication Uses: This medication relieves allergy symptoms, including watery eyes, runny/stuffy nose, itching eyes/nose, and sneezing. It contains fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine. Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that blocks histamine, which is produced during an allergic reaction. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that narrows blood vessels in the nose to reduce swelling and congestion. This medication is not recommended for children under 12 due to the high amount of pseudoephedrine.
HOW TO USE: If self-treating, read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. If prescribed by a doctor, take as directed. Take this medication with water on an empty stomach. Do not take with fruit juices as they may decrease absorption. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Swallow whole or split tablets without crushing or chewing. Do not increase dose or take more often than directed. Do not take antacids containing aluminum and magnesium within 2 hours of taking this medication. Tell your doctor if symptoms do not improve after 1 week or if they worsen or occur with a fever.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, trouble sleeping, nausea, or headache may occur. Inform your doctor if any of these effects persist or worsen. An empty tablet shell may appear in your stool, which is harmless. Common side effects are usually not serious, but seek medical help if experiencing fast/irregular/pounding heartbeat, shaking, mental/mood changes, problems urinating, or seizures. Serious allergic reactions are rare but seek medical help if experiencing rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication, inform your doctor if you are allergic to fexofenadine or pseudoephedrine or if you have had serious side effects from similar medications. Discuss with your pharmacist if there are inactive ingredients in the product that may cause allergies or other problems. Inform your doctor of your medical history, especially if you have glaucoma, difficulty urinating, high blood pressure, heart/blood vessel disease, overactive thyroid, diabetes, or kidney disease. This drug may cause dizziness, so avoid activities requiring alertness until you are sure you can perform them safely. Inform your doctor or dentist of all products you use before having surgery. Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects. Consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. Keep a list of all the products you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Avoid taking this medication with MAO inhibitors and check labels of other medicines for similar ingredients. This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.
QUESTION
NOTES: Keep all regular medical and laboratory appointments. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose. STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
