Why is this medication prescribed?

Allegra-D, which contains the active ingredients fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine, is typically prescribed for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) in adults and children aged 12 years and older.

How should this medicine be used?

Allegra-D is a medication that combines fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine. It is typically used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies (such as hay fever) and nasal congestion.

Here are general guidelines for using Allegra-D:

• Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or as indicated on the packaging. Typically, it is taken once daily.
• Timing: It’s usually taken in the morning with a full glass of water to prevent potential insomnia due to pseudoephedrine, which can be stimulating.
• Swallowing: Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it, as it is formulated for extended release.
• Avoiding Certain Substances: Avoid taking Allegra-D with fruit juices (especially grapefruit, apple, or orange juice) as they may interact with the absorption of fexofenadine.
• Consultation: Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting Allegra-D, especially if you have any existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
• Duration: Use Allegra-D for the duration recommended by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as headache, nausea, insomnia, or dry mouth. If you experience severe side effects or an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/lips/tongue), seek medical help immediately.
• Storage: Store Allegra-D at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Remember, Allegra-D is a controlled substance due to the pseudoephedrine component, so it should be used responsibly according to the directions provided. If you have any doubts or questions, it’s best to seek advice from your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

• Chronic Rhinitis: In some cases, Allegra-D may be prescribed for chronic rhinitis or non-allergic rhinitis where nasal congestion is a prominent symptom.
• Sinusitis: Allegra-D might be used in conjunction with other treatments for sinusitis to help reduce nasal congestion and associated symptoms.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Occasionally, Allegra-D may be used to alleviate symptoms of nasal congestion associated with upper respiratory tract infections.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Allegra-D, it’s important to take special precautions to ensure safe and effective use:

• Medical History: Before starting Allegra-D, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid problems, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate problems, or kidney disease.
• Drug Interactions: Notify your doctor about all other medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Some medications may interact with Allegra-D, particularly other decongestants or antihistamines.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using Allegra-D if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pseudoephedrine can pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant.
• Age Considerations: Allegra-D is generally not recommended for children under 12 years old due to the risk of serious side effects from pseudoephedrine. Use in older adults should be approached cautiously due to potential cardiovascular effects.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as headache, insomnia, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, or increased blood pressure. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, consult your doctor.
• Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or those on the product label carefully. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment unless instructed by your doctor.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may need to monitor you closely while you are taking Allegra-D, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Allegra-D suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this could lead to withdrawal symptoms or a rebound effect.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can help ensure safe and effective use of Allegra-D for its intended purposes under medical supervision. Always discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare provider before starting or modifying treatment with Allegra-D.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Allegra-D. However, it’s generally recommended to take the medication with a full glass of water to ensure proper absorption, and to avoid taking it with fruit juices, especially citrus juices, as they can interfere with the absorption of pseudoephedrine.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Allegra-D, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Allegra-D, which contains fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine, can cause a range of side effects. These side effects can vary in severity and occurrence from person to person. Here are some common and less common side effects associated with Allegra-D:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache: This is one of the most commonly reported side effects of Allegra-D.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or disturbances in sleep patterns.
• Dry Mouth: Feeling parched or having decreased saliva production.
• Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an upset stomach.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
• Nervousness or Anxiety: Feeling jittery or restless.
• Increased Blood Pressure: Pseudoephedrine can elevate blood pressure in some individuals.
• Palpitations: Sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Loss of Appetite: Decreased desire to eat.

Less Common or Rare Side Effects:

• Tremors: Involuntary shaking or trembling.
• Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing or seeing clearly.
• Difficulty Urinating: Trouble passing urine or changes in urinary frequency.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Serious Side Effects (Rare, but Require Immediate Medical Attention):

• Severe Skin Reactions: Such as blistering, peeling, or severe rash.
• Severe Dizziness: Feeling faint or dizzy to the point of losing consciousness.
• Severe Headache: Especially if accompanied by neurological symptoms like vision changes or confusion.
• Chest Pain: Especially if accompanied by symptoms like sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath.
• Seizures: Uncontrollable muscle spasms or loss of consciousness.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the use of Allegra-D and report any side effects promptly to ensure safe and effective management of your allergies or other conditions for which Allegra-D is prescribed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Allegra-D:

• Storage: Store Allegra-D at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Allegra-D tablets safely to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or others. You can check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on proper disposal methods, which may include drug take-back programs or using a drug disposal pouch.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of an Allegra-D overdose may include restlessness, rapid breathing, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, seizures, or fainting.
• Emergency Action: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, call emergency medical services (911) immediately. You can also contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Alerts: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (doctors, dentists, pharmacists, etc.) that you are taking Allegra-D. This is important for managing potential drug interactions and ensuring safe treatment.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Allegra-D, as alcohol can worsen certain side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your blood pressure while you are taking Allegra-D, especially if you have a history of hypertension or cardiovascular problems.
• Patient Education: Understand the specific instructions for taking Allegra-D, including dosage, timing, and potential side effects. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.

By following these guidelines and being aware of storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and other important information, you can safely use Allegra-D as prescribed by your healthcare provider for the treatment of allergic rhinitis or other conditions for which it has been recommended.