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Fexofenadine Coupon - Fexofenadine 24 hour tablet

fexofenadine

Generic Allegra
Used for Allergic Rhinitis, Hives
Used for Allergic Rhinitis, Hives

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.

Last reviewed on March 7, 2024
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What is Fexofenadine (Allegra)?

What is Fexofenadine (Allegra) used for?

How Fexofenadine (Allegra) works

Fexofenadine (Allegra) is a second-generation antihistamine. It blocks histamine, a natural chemical in your body that can cause allergy symptoms like itchiness, itchy eyes, or runny nose. By blocking histamine, fexofenadine (Allegra) helps relieve allergy symptoms.

Are you looking for information on Allegra-D (fexofenadine / pseudoephedrine) instead?
When does Fexofenadine (Allegra) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAllegra Allergy, Allegra Hives
Drug ClassAntihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter

More on Fexofenadine (Allegra) essentials

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$14.38(save 46.69%)
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$7.66
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What are the side effects of Fexofenadine (Allegra)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Other Side Effects

  • Cough
  • Upper respiratory tract infection

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Accidentally taking too much medication: fast heartbeat, flushing, extreme sleepiness, changes in vision, irritability in children
When do Fexofenadine (Allegra) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Headache

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Fexofenadine (Allegra)

thumbs-up

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

thumbs-down

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

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Fexofenadine (Allegra)

pharmacist
  • Fexofenadine (Allegra) can be taken only when you have allergy symptoms every once in a while. But if you have allergy symptoms on a daily basis, taking it regularly according to the manufacturer's directions can give you the most relief.

    • Take fexofenadine (Allegra) with water only. Don't take it with fruit juices because they can affect how well fexofenadine (Allegra) gets absorbed into your body.

      • If you're pregnant, discuss with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking fexofenadine (Allegra) before using. It's not completely clear if fexofenadine (Allegra) is safe to take during pregnancy, but studies suggest that the medication doesn't appear to raise the risk of harm in unborn babies when used during pregnancy.

        • Talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of taking fexofenadine (Allegra) while breastfeeding. There's little information about fexofenadine (Allegra) use while breastfeeding and the effects it has on breast milk or nursing infants.

          • For the liquid form: Use a medication dose cup or an oral syringe to measure your dose of fexofenadine (Allegra). Ask your pharmacist to provide you with one if the product doesn't include it in its packaging or if you need extras. Don't use household spoons because they might not be accurate and might cause you to take the wrong dose.

            • For the orally disintegrating tablet: Place the tablet on your tongue, and let it dissolve in your mouth. You can take it with or without water.

              • Don't use other antihistamines while taking fexofenadine (Allegra) without talking to your HCP or pharmacist first. Doing so can raise your risk of taking too much medication (overdose). This can lead to severe side effects, including seizures, hallucinations (seeing things that aren't real), and even death.

                • Avoid taking fexofenadine (Allegra) and antacids containing aluminum or magnesium (e.g., Mylanta, Rolaids) within 15 minutes of each other. Taking these products too close to the allergy medication can affect how well fexofenadine (Allegra) gets absorbed into your body. This can potentially make fexofenadine (Allegra) not work as well to treat your allergies.

                  • Store fexofenadine (Allegra) up and away from children and pets. That way, they're less likely to reach it and accidentally take the medication. If you think your child accidentally took the medication, call a Poison Control Center right away at 1-800-222-1222.

                    For relieving itchiness from hives

                    • Some formulations of fexofenadine (Allegra) can be used to help relieve itchiness from hives. But if you have hives that happen with any trouble breathing, speaking, or swallowing; dizziness; swelling in or around your mouth; or drooling; get emergency help right away. These can be signs of a severe allergy or anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

                      • Stop using fexofenadine (Allegra) to relieve hives and contact a provider if your symptoms don't get better after 3 days of taking the medication or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. There might be a better treatment for you.

                        More on Fexofenadine (Allegra) tips

                        faqs

                        Frequently asked questions about Fexofenadine (Allegra)

                        How long does it take for fexofenadine (Allegra) to work?
                        Fexofenadine (Allegra) takes about 2 hours to start working.
                        How long do fexofenadine (Allegra) side effects last?
                        How long the side effects from fexofenadine (Allegra) last hasn't been well-studied. But in general, most side effects are mild and can be managed with lifestyle changes. For example, the most common side effect of fexofenadine (Allegra) is headache. One way to ease headache is by staying hydrated throughout the day. If appropriate, your primary care provider (PCP) might recommend an over-the-counter pain medication to help with the pain. Let your PCP know if any of the side effects are bothersome or don't get better over time. They might suggest a different medication to help with your allergy or hives.
                        Does fexofenadine (Allegra) make you drowsy?
                        Yes, it's possible for fexofenadine (Allegra) to make you drowsy (sleepy). But drowsiness isn't as common with fexofenadine (Allegra) as with some other antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl). This is because fexofenadine (Allegra) is a second-generation antihistamine that isn't as likely to cross into the brain compared to first-generation antihistamines. Let your primary care provider or pharmacist know if fexofenadine (Allegra) is making you too drowsy to go about your day. They might ask you to consider other options.
                        How much fexofenadine (Allegra) can I take in 24 hours?
                        Typically, the maximum dose of fexofenadine (Allegra) ranges from 120 mg to 180 mg daily for adults, depending on which product you're taking. The maximum daily dose and age cut-off of fexofenadine (Allegra) for children also differs depending on the product. Follow the instructions on the manufacturer's label for specific directions. But if your healthcare professional (HCP) prescribes a different dose than what's on the manufacturer's label, follow your HCP's instructions instead. Ask your pharmacist or HCP if you're not sure what dose of fexofenadine (Allegra) you should take.
                        Can you take fexofenadine (Allegra) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) together?
                        No, you should avoid taking fexofenadine (Allegra) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) together, unless instructed by your primary care provider. They're both antihistamines and taking them together raises your risk of side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. If you want to switch from fexofenadine (Allegra) to diphenhydramine (Benadryl), start diphenhydramine (Benadryl) at least 24 hours after your last fexofenadine (Allegra) dose. Talk to your pharmacist or HCP if you have questions on which medication is right for you.
                        Can you take fexofenadine (Allegra) and Mucinex together?
                        It depends on the Mucinex product. Mucinex is the brand name of multiple different combination medications with different ingredients. Some Mucinex products contain triprolidine, which is an antihistamine. You shouldn't take fexofenadine (Allegra) with any other antihistamines. But if your Mucinex product doesn't have any antihistamines, it's likely that you can take it with fexofenadine (Allegra) as long as you don't have other health conditions that make the combination unsafe. Ask your pharmacist if you're not sure if you can take a particular Mucinex product with fexofenadine (Allegra).
                        What's the difference between fexofenadine (Allegra) and loratadine?
                        Fexofenadine (Allegra) and loratadine (Claritin) are both oral second-generation antihistamines that work well to treat allergies and have only minor differences. Among the second-generation antihistamines, fexofenadine (Allegra) might be the least likely to cause sleepiness. In addition, both medications are available as tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and liquid. But loratadine (Claritin) also come as chewable tablets. Discuss with your HCP or pharmacist about which antihistamine is best for you.
                        Is it safe to take fexofenadine (Allegra) and alcohol together?
                        It's best to avoid drinking alcohol with antihistamines like fexofenadine (Allegra). Doing so raises your risk of drowsiness (sleepiness) and dizziness.
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                        What are the risks and warnings for Fexofenadine (Allegra)?

                        Fexofenadine (Allegra) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                        risk-warning

                        Accidentally taking too much medication

                        Fexofenadine (Allegra) and other antihistamines can be found in many over-the-counter products. Taking too much fexofenadine (Allegra) or using more than one medication containing an antihistamine (including products used on the skin) can lead to an accidental overdose. This can cause serious side effects, such as seizures, hallucinations, or even death.

                        To prevent an accidental overdose, read package labels carefully. If you're not sure if a product has an antihistamine, ask your pharmacist. Don't start any new medications while taking fexofenadine (Allegra) without talking to your HCP or pharmacist first. If you think you or your loved one has taken too much medication, get medical help right away or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

                        risk-warning

                        Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablet only

                        The fexofenadine (Allegra) orally disintegrating tablets contain phenylalanine, a component of the artificial sweetener aspartame. If you have a genetic condition called phenylketonuria (PKU), taking this form of the medication can be dangerous for you. Read the manufacturer's label on the fexofenadine (Allegra) product you have to see if there's a warning for people with PKU. Ask your pharmacist if you're not sure if a particular fexofenadine (Allegra) is safe for you. There are other formulations of the medication that might be safer for you.

                        dosage

                        Fexofenadine (Allegra) dosage forms

                        The average cost for 30 tablets of 24 hour of Fexofenadine (Allegra) is $7.66 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 46.69% off the average retail price of $14.38.
                        tablet
                        Tablet
                        DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                        12 hour60 tablets$11.96$0.20
                        24 hour30 tablets$7.66$0.26

                        Typical dosing for Fexofenadine (Allegra)

                        Different formulations of fexofenadine (Allegra) have different dosing directions and age-cut offs. Make sure to follow the instructions on the manufacturer's label for specific directions for your product. Some examples include:

                        Fexofenadine 12-hour tablet

                        • Age 65 years and older: Ask your healthcare professional (HCP).

                        • Age 12 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 1 tablet (60 mg) by mouth every 12 hours. Don't take more than 2 tablets within a 24-hour period.

                        • Age younger than 12 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.

                        Fexofenadine 24-hour tablet

                        • Age 65 years and older: Ask your HCP.

                        • Age 12 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 1 tablet (180 mg) by mouth once per day. Don't take more than 1 tablet within a 24-hour period.

                        • Age younger than 12 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.

                        Fexofenadine oral suspension: Each 5 mL contains 30 mg of fexofenadine.

                        • Age 65 years and older: Ask your HCP.

                        • Age 12 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 10 mL by mouth every 12 hours. Don't take more than 20 mL within a 24-hour period.

                        • Age 2 to up to 12 years of age: The typical dose is 5 mL by mouth every 12 hours. Don't take more than 10 mL within a 24-hour period.

                        • Age younger than 2 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.

                        Fexofenadine orally disintegrating tablet

                        • Age 65 years and older: Ask your HCP.

                        • Age 12 to under 65 years: The typical dose is 2 tablets (60 mg total) dissolved on the tongue every 12 hours on an empty stomach. Don't take more than 4 tablets within a 24-hour period.

                        • Age 6 to under 12 years: The typical dose is 1 tablet (30 mg total) dissolved on the tongue every 12 hours on an empty stomach. Don't take more than 2 tablets within a 24-hour period.

                        • Age younger than 6 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.

                        More on Fexofenadine (Allegra) dosage forms

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                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Fexofenadine (Allegra)?

                        There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Fexofenadine (Allegra). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                        Fexofenadine (Allegra)
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                        • Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (runny nose, itchy nose, itchy or watery eyes)

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                        Used for:
                        • Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat)

                        • Relief of itchiness due to chronic (long-term) hives in children ages 6 months to under 6 years old - certain liquid solutions only

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                        latest news

                        What is the latest news about Fexofenadine (Allegra)?

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                        Fexofenadine (Allegra) images

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                        References

                        Best studies we found

                        Andersson, N. W., et al. (2020). Association between fexofenadine use during pregnancy and fetal outcomes. JAMA Pediatrics.

                        Borowy, C. S., et al. (2023). Antihistamine toxicity. StatPearls.

                        Casale, T. B., et al. (2003). First do no harm: Managing antihistamine impairment in patients with allergic rhinitis. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

                        View All References (11)

                        Chattem, Inc. (2022). CHILDRENS ALLEGRA ALLERGY - fexofenadine hydrochloride tablet, orally disintegrating [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Chattem, Inc. (2023). ALLEGRA ALLERGY - fexofenadine hydrochloride tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Chattem, Inc. (2023). ALLEGRA HIVES 24HR - fexofenadine hydrochloride tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Chattem, Inc. (2023). CHILDRENS ALLEGRA ALLERGY - fexofenadine hydrochloride suspension [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Compalati, E., et al. (2011). Systematic review on the efficacy of fexofenadine in seasonal allergic rhinitis: A meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials. International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology.

                        Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). (2021). Fexofenadine. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

                        Dykewicz, M.S., et al. (2020). Rhinitis 2020: A practice parameter update. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

                        National Human Genome Institute. (2014). About phenylketonuria.

                        Salisbury, B. H., et al. (2023). Antacids. StatPearls.

                        Seidman, M. D., et al. (2015). Clinical practice guideline: Allergic rhinitis. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.

                        Spirit Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2022). FEXOFENADINE HCL tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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