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Allergy Drugs: Prescription and OTC »
The arsenal of allergy drugs includes dozens of medications that relieve allergy symptoms when confronted with a trigger known as an allergen. That trigger could be something from a plant, such as pollen, or something from an animal (pet dander, dust mites, cockroaches). Other allergy triggers include certain fragrances or chemical substances.
What causes a person's allergic reaction is highly individual. But the reactions are often universal: swelling and inflammation, especially around the eyes, nose, and throat, usually accompanied by itching.
Some allergy medications work against the effects of histamines, which are released during an allergic reaction. Other medications reduce swelling, affect the immune system, or affect release of other substances associated with allergic reactions.
Many allergy drugs are available without a prescription.
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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
FEXOFENADINE/PSEUDOEPHEDRINE EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL
(fex-oh-FEN-uh-deen/sue-doh-eff-ED-rin)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Allegra D
USES: This medication is an antihistamine and decongestant combination which provides relief of seasonal allergy symptoms such as watery or itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, itchy throat, and stuffy nose (nasal congestion).
This medication is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age due to the high amount of pseudoephedrine.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal as directed by your doctor. High-fat meals may decrease the absorption of the medicine into your bloodstream, decreasing its effectiveness.
Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.
Taking this drug with apple, grapefruit, or orange juice may decrease the absorption of fexofenadine. Avoid taking this drug with these types of fruit juices. If possible, take it with water instead.
Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium can decrease the absorption of this drug. Do not take antacids within 2 hours of taking this medication.
Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed.
Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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