Guide To Over-The-Counter Antihistamines

Fexofenadine

Fexofenadine is intended to treat seasonal allergies in children and adults. It also treats hives and itching related to chronic idiopathic urticaria. Patients over sixty-five years old should check with a doctor before using this medicine. Individuals with kidney disease should do this as well. Patients should not take this medication with any fruit juice, including orange, apple, or grapefruit juice. They should only do so with water. Patients who use the disintegrating tablets need to take them on an empty stomach.

Antacids can interfere with the absorption of fexofenadine. Thus, patients should not take them within two hours of using this antihistamine. This medication's side effects include back pain, headaches, sinus pain, sore throat, and stuffy nose. Patients who notice pain, a new or worsening cough, fever, chills, or fatigue during treatment should let their doctor know right away. Patients should check with their pharmacist or doctor before using fexofenadine with certain medications to avoid interactions. This includes erythromycin, ketoconazole, and opioids. Sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and anticonvulsants also cause interactions with this medication.