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Phenylephrine vs. Allegra

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

phenylephrine eye drops

 

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Fexofenadine

(Allegra)

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Summary for Phenylephrine

Prescription only

Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate (widen) pupils for eye exams or certain eye procedures. Side effects include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, blurry vision, and possibly raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your pregnant or breastfeeding because you might need to use a different medication.

Indications for Phenylephrine

  • Dilate (widen) pupils

Pros and Cons for Phenylephrine

Pros

  • Can be used in adults and children
  • Starts working quickly (within 15 minutes)
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication

Cons

  • Can cause eye pain and stinging
  • Dilating effects can last for up to 7 hours (or longer)
  • The 10% strength can raise blood pressure in people with certain heart or thyroid problems

Common Side Effects for Phenylephrine

  • Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
  • Temporary blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light

Warnings for Phenylephrine

  • For use in the eyes only
  • Heart problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Rebound pupil constriction

Summary for Allegra

Over-the-counter

Fexofenadine (Allegra) is an antihistamine. It's used to ease symptoms of allergy and hives in adults and children. Fexofenadine (Allegra) can be found over the counter as a tablet, fast-melting tablet, and liquid. This medication is taken once or twice per day, depending on the formulation. Fexofenadine (Allegra) starts to work in about 2 hours and its effects can last up to 24 hours. Fexofenadine (Allegra) doesn't make you as drowsy compared to some other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Other possible side effects of fexofenadine (Allegra) include headache and dry mouth.

Indications for Allegra

Pros and Cons for Allegra

Pros

  • First-choice option for relieving allergy symptoms
  • Some products can also be used to relieve itchiness from hives.
  • Available as 12-hour and 24-hour tablets, as well as a liquid and quick-dissolving tablets for those who have a hard time swallowing pills
  • All formulations available over the counter

Cons

  • Liquid form might not be the best choice for people on a low-salt diet because it contains sodium
  • Once-daily formulations not recommended for children younger than 12 years old
  • Might have a higher risk of side effects if you have liver or kidney problems
  • Can cause headache

Common Side Effects for Allegra

Warnings for Allegra

  • Accidentally taking too much medication
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablet only

Prices with our coupons for Phenylephrine vs. Allegra

Price Card Drug Icon
Phenylephrine1 eye dropper / 2ml of 2.5%
$21.67$40.99
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Price Card Drug Icon
Fexofenadine30 tablets / 24 hour
$8.31$8.31
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