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Fexofenadine

Fexofenadine is used to treat the symptoms of allergies.
Drowsiness is a rare side-effect of fexofenadine so make sure your reactions are normal before driving or doing other things which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.

About fexofenadine

Type of medicine Antihistamine
Used for Allergic conditions such as hayfever and some allergic skin reactions
Also called Telfast
Available as Tablets

Exposure to pollen, pet fur, house dust or insect bites can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms which can include rashes, sneezing, watery eyes and a running or blocked nose.

Fexofenadine works by stopping the effects of histamine and helping to relieve these symptoms.

Before taking fexofenadine

Before taking fexofenadine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding. If you have ever suffered from heart problems. If you suffer from epilepsy or porphyria (a blood disorder). If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine. If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take fexofenadine

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment. Swallow the tablets with a small amount of water. Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of fexofenadine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible take the container with you, even if it is empty. This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

Avoid taking this medicine at the same time of day as indigestion remedies. Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside fexofenadine. Alcohol will increase any feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, do so in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.

Can fexofenadine cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Side-effects - these occur only rarely with this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Drowsiness and blurred vision Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly
Dry mouth If you experience this try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If your mouth becomes too dry, discuss the problem with your doctor or pharmacist
Skin sensitivity to sunlight Avoid sunbeds and use a sun cream higher than factor 15 in bright sunlight until you know how your skin reacts

Other side-effects that may occur rarely include tummy upset, being aware of your heart beat, skin rashes, dizziness, mood changes, disturbed sleep or shakiness.

How to store fexofenadine

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light. Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

Important information about all medicines


Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible take the container with you, even if it is empty.
If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).Manufacturer's PIL, Telfast 120 mg Film coated tablets, Aventis Pharma, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised September 2006, accessed January 2008. Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
EMIS 2008 DocID:3782 DocRef: dils3786 Last Updated: 21 Feb 2008 Date of Next Review:20 Feb 2010 Version:22

Author:EMIS
Copyright 2006 EMIS, HTML generated by EMIS Knowledge Source Editor