What is fexofenadine?
Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.
Fexofenadine is used to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies (hay fever) in adults and children.
Fexofenadine is also used to treat skin itching and hives caused by a condition called chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children.
Fexofenadine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about fexofenadine?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease.
Do not take fexofenadine with fruit juice (such as apple, orange, or grapefruit).
Take the disintegrating tablet on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
There may be other drugs that can affect fexofenadine. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you think you have used too much medicine, or if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse after you start taking fexofenadine. Never use more than the recommended dose.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking fexofenadine?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether fexofenadine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether fexofenadine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Fexofenadine tablets and capsules may be used to treat seasonal allergy symptoms in children who are at least 6 years old. Fexofenadine oral suspension (liquid) may be used in children ages 2 through 11. When treating chronic idiopathic urticaria, the liquid may be used in children as young as 2 months old.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.