Description
Generics: Fexofenadine Hydrochloride.
Dosage Form: Tablet.
Indications:
Allergic rhinitis: Fexofenadine is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, in adults and children 12 years of age and over. Symptoms treated effectively include sneezing, rhinorrhea, lacrimation, itchy, red eyes and itchy nose/palate/throat. Fexofenadine improves health-related quality of life and work/activity productivity.
Chronic idiopathic urticaria: Fexofenadine is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children 12 years of age and older. Fexofenadine significantly reduces the signs and symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria, the number of wheals, and pruritus. Fexofenadine improves health-related quality of life and work/activity productivity.
Pharmacology:
The H1 histamine receptor is responsible for mediating hypersensitivity and allergic reactions. Exposure to allergen results in the degranulation of mast cells and basophils, which then release histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Histamine binds to, and activates, H1 receptors, which results in the further release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins, from basophils and mast cells. These downstream effects of histamine binding are responsible for a wide variety of allergic symptoms, such as pruritus, rhinorrhea, and watery eyes.
Fexofenadine is considered an “inverse agonist” of the H1 receptor because it binds to and stabilizes the inactive form of the receptor, preventing its activation and subsequent downstream effects. It has a potent and selective affinity for H1 receptors, and there is no evidence that it carries antidopaminergic, antiserotonergic, anticholinergic, sedative, or adrenergic blocking activity. Fexofenadine does not cross the blood-brain barrier and thus is unlikely to cause significant CNS effects.
Dosage guideline:
Twice daily.
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
Route of administration: Orally.
Interaction:
When taken with erythromycin or ketoconazole, the plasma levels of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride increased. Fexofenadine Hydrochloride absorption is reduced by antacids that contain aluminum and magnesium hydroxide.
Contraindications:
Patients who have a known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any of its constituents should not take it.
Side Effects:
Headache, lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal disorders are all common adverse effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation:
Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is classified as pregnancy category C by the US Food and Drug Administration. So, unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the potential hazards to the fetus, Fexofenadine Hydrochloride should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.
Precautions & Warnings:
Patients who are elderly or have impaired renal function should be treated with caution.
Therapeutic Class:
Non-sedating antihistamines.
Storage Conditions:
Keep away from light and heat in a dry location. Keep out of children’s reach.
Manufactured by: ACME Laboratories Ltd.
