What is Fexofenadine?

Fexofenadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve symptoms caused by allergic reactions.

It works by blocking histamine, a substance released by the body that causes symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, swelling and skin rashes.

This product is available in 120mg and 180mg strengths. Each strength has a different licensed use.

What is Fexofenadine 120mg used for?

Fexofenadine 120mg is used in adults and young people aged 12 years and over to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever.

These symptoms may include:

• Sneezing.
• An itchy, runny or blocked nose.
• Itchy, red or watery eyes.
• Itching in the nose or throat.

What is Fexofenadine 180mg used for?

Fexofenadine 180mg is used in adults and young people aged 12 years and over to relieve symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria.

These symptoms may include:

• Hives or raised, itchy skin.
• Persistent itching.
• Swelling.
• Allergic skin rashes.

How does Fexofenadine work?

Fexofenadine blocks the action of histamine without usually causing the level of drowsiness associated with some older antihistamines.

It generally begins relieving symptoms within approximately one hour and its antihistamine effect can last for around 24 hours.

How to take Fexofenadine 120mg

Unless your prescriber tells you otherwise:

• Take one 120mg tablet once daily.
• Take the tablet with water before a meal.
• Swallow the tablet whole.
• Take it at approximately the same time each day.
• Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

Fexofenadine 120mg is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 years and over. It should not be given to children under 12 years of age.

How to take Fexofenadine 180mg

Unless your prescriber tells you otherwise:

• Take one 180mg tablet once daily.
• Take the tablet with water before a meal.
• Swallow the tablet whole.
• Take it at approximately the same time each day.
• Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

Fexofenadine 180mg is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 years and over. It should not be given to children under 12 years of age.

If you forget a dose

Take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.

Important safety information

Do not take fexofenadine if you are allergic to fexofenadine or any other ingredient in the tablets.

Tell your pharmacist or prescriber before taking fexofenadine if you:

• Have liver or kidney problems.
• Have, or have previously had, heart disease.
• Have experienced a fast or irregular heartbeat.
• Are elderly.
• Take any other medicines.

Indigestion remedies containing aluminium or magnesium can reduce the amount of fexofenadine absorbed. Leave approximately two hours between taking fexofenadine and one of these indigestion remedies.

Take fexofenadine with water rather than apple, orange or grapefruit juice because these drinks may reduce its absorption.

Driving and using machinery

Fexofenadine is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, check how the medicine affects you before driving because some people may experience dizziness or drowsiness.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache.
• Drowsiness.
• Feeling sick.
• Dizziness.

Uncommon side effects may include:

• Tiredness.
• Sleepiness.

Stop taking fexofenadine and seek urgent medical help if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, chest tightness, difficulty breathing or another sign of a serious allergic reaction.

Brand and packaging

The manufacturer, packaging and tablet appearance may vary depending on availability. You will receive a UK-licensed fexofenadine product in the strength approved by the prescriber.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine.