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fexofenadine hydrochloride
Allegra, Telfast‡

Pregnancy Risk Category C

How supplied
Capsules: 60 mg

Action
Nonsedating antihistamine in which the principal effects are mediated through a selective inhibition of peripheral H1 receptors.

Indications & dosage
Seasonal allergic rhinitis--

Adults and children ages 12 and over:
60 mg P.O. b.i.d.
Adjust-a-dose:
For patients with impaired renal function or on dialysis, 60 mg daily.
Children ages 6 to 11:
30 mg P.O. b.i.d.
Chronic idiopathic urticaria--

Children age 12 and older:
60 mg P.O. b.i.d.
Children ages 6 to 11:
30 mg P.O. b.i.d.
Adjust-a-dose:
In patients with creatinine clearance less than 80 ml/minute, increase dosage interval to every 24 hours.

Adverse reactions
CNS:
fatigue, drowsiness.
GI:
nausea, dyspepsia.
GU:
dysmenorrhea.
Other:
viral infection.

Interactions
Drug-lifestyle.
Alcohol use: increased CNS depression. Use cautiously.

Effects on diagnostic tests
Drug can prevent, reduce, or mask positive skin test response.

Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to drug or its components.

Nursing considerations

Patient teaching

*Liquid contains alcohol. **May contain tartrazine.  †Canada  ‡Australia  §U.K.  OTCOver the counter
Reactions may be common, uncommon, life-threatening, or COMMON AND LIFE-THREATENING

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