Fexofenadine Hydrochloride: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects

Generic Name

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride

Therapeutic Class: Non-sedating antihistamines

Indications:

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children. It is also indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Description:
Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine with selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist activity. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and peak plasma concentration is reached in 2-3 hours. It does not appear to cross the blood brain barrier.

Dosage & Administration:

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis-
Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years:
Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml twice daily
In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml once daily

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria-
Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 6 months to less than 2 years:

• Suspension: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years:

• Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) once daily

Interaction:

Plasma concentration of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride have been increased when given with erythromycin or ketoconazole. Aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacid reduces the absorption of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride.

Contraindications:

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any of its ingredients.

Side Effects:
Common side effects are headache, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Pregnancy & Lactation:

US FDA pregnancy category of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is C. So, Fexofenadine Hydrochloride should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

Precautions & Warnings:

Caution should be exercised in elderly patient and patient with decreased renal function.

Overdose:
In case of an overdose, standard measures to remove any unabsorbed drug should be employed. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. There has been no reported case of an acute overdose of Fexofenadine hydrochloride.

Storage:

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.