What Is Allegra?
A trade name of the generic drug fexofenadine, Allegra is an antihistamine that counteracts the actions of histamine in the body. This reduces the symptoms of allergies that can interfere with daily life, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and watery eyes. Allegra D contains pseudoephedrine as well fexofenadine to also alleviate the symptoms of nasal congestion.
Allegra is available in several forms including:
- Allegra Allergy
- Allegra-D (24 Hour Allergy & Congestion
- Children's Allergra Allergy (Tablets)
- Children's Allergra Allergy (Meltable Tablets)
- Children Liquid
The regular tablet is taken by mouth once or twice a day and should be taken with a full glass of water. The liquid suspension formula must be shaken and precisely measured. Some individuals may receive Allegra ODT, an orally disintegrating tablet formula that is dissolved in the mouth rather than swallowed whole. An extended release tablet is available for patients who take Allegra D. This pill must be swallowed whole to be effective and cannot be crushed, chewed, or broken.
Allegra Uses
Before 2011, fexofenadine medications were only available with a prescription. Allegra and Allegra D are now available over the counter and are intended to treat the symptoms associated with seasonal allergies in adults and children. Allegra may also be recommended to treat the symptoms of the skin condition urticaria, including hives and itchy, raised patches on the skin.
