Fexofenadine

Uses of Fexofenadine

Fexofenadine is commonly used in the treatment of allergic conditions, allergic eye disease, allergic skin conditions, and nasal allergy symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose.

How Fexofenadine Works

Fexofenadine is a non-sedative antihistamine and a metabolite of terfenadine. It is a competitive antagonist with histamine at H1-receptor located on effector cells in the blood vessels, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract.

Side Effects of Fexofenadine

Diarrhea, Nausea, Vomiting, Dyspepsia, Palpitations, Tachycardia, Fatigue, Hypersensitivity reactions, Headache, Drowsiness, Rash

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

There is limited data on the usage of Fexofenadine in patients with renal impairment. It should be used with caution but dose adjustment may be necessary.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to consume alcohol while taking Fexofenadine as the alcohol might worsen the side effect of Fexofenadine which is fatigue and drowsy.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies do not demonstrate direct or indirect risk to fetal development, parturition or postnatal development. There are inadequate human studies on the usage of Fexofenadine in pregnancy thus, it is recommended to avoid using Fexofenadine unless it is deemed necessary.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Fexofenadine may cause side effects on the neurological system which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Liver Limited Data

There is limited data on the usage of Fexofenadine in patients with liver impairment. It should be used with caution but dose adjustment may not necessary.

Lactation Limited Data

It is not known whether Fexofenadine is excreted in human breast milk however, terfenadine is reported to be found in the breast milk of mothers who were on treatment. Thus, it is recommended to avoid Fexofenadine during breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).