What is Telfast 180mg?

Telfast 180mg contains fexofenadine hydrochloride, an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms caused by long-term allergic skin reactions known as chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Telfast is classed as a non-drowsy antihistamine, although a small number of people may still experience drowsiness or dizziness.

What is Telfast 180mg used for?

Telfast 180mg is used in adults and young people aged 12 years and over to relieve symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria, including:

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

Telfast 180mg is not the strength licensed for treating hay fever. Telfast or fexofenadine 120mg is normally used for seasonal allergic rhinitis.

How does Telfast work?

Fexofenadine blocks the action of histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction.

By reducing the effects of histamine, Telfast helps relieve itching, swelling, hives and allergic skin rashes. It usually begins relieving symptoms within one hour and its effects can last for approximately 24 hours.

How to take Telfast 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.

Telfast 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 Telfast if you are allergic to fexofenadine or any other ingredient in the tablets.

Tell your pharmacist or prescriber before taking Telfast 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 Telfast absorbed. Leave approximately two hours between taking Telfast and one of these indigestion remedies.

Driving and using machinery

Telfast 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 Telfast 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.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine.