Generic Allegra

Fexofenadine hydrochloride is an antihistamine with selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist activity. Both enantiomers of fexofenadine hydrochloride displayed approximately equipotent antihistaminic effects. Fexofenadine inhibited histamine release from peritoneal mast cells in rats. In laboratory animals, no anticholinergic, alpha1-adrenergic or beta-adrenergic-receptor blocking effects were observed. No sedative or other central nervous system effects were observed. Radiolabeled tissue distribution studies in rats indicated that fexofenadine does not cross the blood-brain barrier.

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Caffeine-containing beverages (coffee, tea, sodas, and energy drinks) may increase the restlessness and insomnia caused by pseudoephedrine in sensitive individuals, so you may wish to drink less of these beverages. Talk to your doctor about drinking these beverages while taking this medication.

On April 14, the FDA approved a first-time generic formulation of fexofenadine HCl plus pseudoephedrine HCl 60-mg/120-mg extended-release tablets (made by Barr Laboratories, Inc.; brand name Allegra-D 12 Hour, made by Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).

The antihistamine-decongestant combination is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children aged six years or older. It is also indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria in this population.

There are several possible side effects that can occur in people taking Allegra (fexofenadine hydrochloride); however, based on data from clinical studies involving over 4,500 adults and children, weight gain does not appear to be one of them.

In clinical studies, side effects are always documented and compared to a control group of people who are not taking the medicine. Side effects are also generally grouped into those that occur in more than 1 percent and those that occur in less than 1 percent (rare side effect) of people. During clinical studies for Allegra, weight gain was not detected as either a common or rare problem.

Generic Allegra is manufactured by a few companies and sold as Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets. They are available in the following strengths.

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets 30 mg.
Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets 60 mg
Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets 180 mg.

At this time, generic Allegra oral suspension (liquid) and generic Allegra ODT (orally disintegrating tablets) are not available.

On Aug. 31, the FDA approved first-time generic formulations of 30, 60, and 180 mg fexofenadine HCl tablets (made by Barr Laboratories, Inc.; brand name Allegra, made by Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.).

Fexofenadine tablets are indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children aged six years and older. Symptoms treated effectively in clinical studies included sneezing, rhinorrhea, itchy nose/palate/throat, and itchy/watery/red eyes.

Fexofenadine is also indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children aged six years and older. In clinical studies, fexofenadine significantly reduced pruritus and number of wheals.

• Allegra Oral Suspension 30mg/5ml
• Allegra 30mg Tablets
• Allegra 60mg Tablets
• Allegra 180mg Tablets
• Allegra D 24 hour Tablets
• Allegra D 12 hour Tablets

Allegra is a histamine H1-receptor antagonist also known as fexofenadine hydrocloride. Other facts about Allegra include:

• Most younger children take their Allegra twice a day.
• Allegra can interact with erythromycin, ketoconazole, aluminum and magnesium containing antacids, such as Maalox, and certain fruit juices.

• Allegra should be taken with water and not fruit juice, such as grapefruit, orange, or apple juice.
• If Allegra doesn’t work for your child, alternative allergy medicines might include Claritin, Clarinex, Zyrtec, and/or Singulair. Steroid nasal sprays, such as Flonase, Nasonex, or Rhinocort Aqua, might also be prescribed, depending on your child’s age.