Updated September 03, 2013.
Written or reviewed by a board-certified physician. See About.com's Medical Review Board.
What is Allegra?:
Allegra is used to treat allergies caused by pollen, dust mites, dander, etc. Allegra helps to control the symptoms of these conditions such as runny nose (rhinitis), itchy eyes, and some allergic skin conditions such as hives.
Who Can Take Allegra?:
Most healthy individuals over the age of two can take Allegra if they have never had an allergic reaction to fexofenadine hydrochloride.
You shouldn't take Allegra if you are pregnant or nursing without talking to your doctor and/or pharmacist first. Allegra ODT cannot be taken by individuals who have a condition known as PKU (phenylketonuria) because this particular form of the medication contains phenylanaline. Allegra can interact with other medications you may be taking so you need to discuss all of your medications with your doctor before adding Allegra to your medication regime.
How Is Allegra Taken?:
Allegra comes in different strengths depending on your age and weight. The most common dosage for healthy adults is one 60mg tablet two times a day. The right dose for you might vary, so make sure you read the instructions on the bottle carefully and check with your doctor if you're not sure how much to take. With the exception of the ODT formula, Allegra can be swallowed with a glass of water. Do not take Allegra with fruit juice or antacids. Allegra ODT is designed for children who cannot swallow pills. It is dissolved under the tongue.
There is also a liquid form of Allegra for children. The dosage varies quite a bit, so be sure to clarify with your doctor or pharmacist.
What Are Side Effects of Allegra?:
Allegra can cause the following side effects: fatigue, drowsiness, headache, cough, upper respiratory infections, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache, back pain, dizziness, fever, ear infections and changes in your menstrual cycle. The following side effects could indicate a life-threatening allergic reaction and should be reported to emergency medical personal (911) right away: swelling of the face or tongue, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or wheezing.
Additional Warnings:
Keep this medication out of the reach of children. If an overdose occurs contact the poison control center or emergency medical services immediately.
Source:
Allegra.com. Prescribing Information. Accessed: August 17, 2010 from http://www.allegra.com/
Written or reviewed by a board-certified physician. See About.com's Medical Review Board.
What is Allegra?:
Allegra is used to treat allergies caused by pollen, dust mites, dander, etc. Allegra helps to control the symptoms of these conditions such as runny nose (rhinitis), itchy eyes, and some allergic skin conditions such as hives.
Who Can Take Allegra?:
Most healthy individuals over the age of two can take Allegra if they have never had an allergic reaction to fexofenadine hydrochloride.
You shouldn't take Allegra if you are pregnant or nursing without talking to your doctor and/or pharmacist first. Allegra ODT cannot be taken by individuals who have a condition known as PKU (phenylketonuria) because this particular form of the medication contains phenylanaline. Allegra can interact with other medications you may be taking so you need to discuss all of your medications with your doctor before adding Allegra to your medication regime.
How Is Allegra Taken?:
Allegra comes in different strengths depending on your age and weight. The most common dosage for healthy adults is one 60mg tablet two times a day. The right dose for you might vary, so make sure you read the instructions on the bottle carefully and check with your doctor if you're not sure how much to take. With the exception of the ODT formula, Allegra can be swallowed with a glass of water. Do not take Allegra with fruit juice or antacids. Allegra ODT is designed for children who cannot swallow pills. It is dissolved under the tongue.
There is also a liquid form of Allegra for children. The dosage varies quite a bit, so be sure to clarify with your doctor or pharmacist.
What Are Side Effects of Allegra?:
Allegra can cause the following side effects: fatigue, drowsiness, headache, cough, upper respiratory infections, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache, back pain, dizziness, fever, ear infections and changes in your menstrual cycle. The following side effects could indicate a life-threatening allergic reaction and should be reported to emergency medical personal (911) right away: swelling of the face or tongue, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or wheezing.
Additional Warnings:
Keep this medication out of the reach of children. If an overdose occurs contact the poison control center or emergency medical services immediately.
Source:
Allegra.com. Prescribing Information. Accessed: August 17, 2010 from http://www.allegra.com/
Source...