:: What is Allegra?
Allegra (fexofenadine hydrochloride) is a non-sedating FDA-approved oral antihistamine medication, in the class of piperidines, used for the treatment of seasonal allergy symptoms.
Allegra is manufactured by Aventis Pharmaceuticals based in Kansas City, Missouri, USA.
See our comprehensive Allergies FAQ  to learn more about allergens, and for a
comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used decongestants, antihistamines, and intranasal corticosteroids for allergy relief .
You can buy Allegra by going to our Allegra price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Allegra prices, no prior prescription required.
If this is your first time ordering Allegra online, see our beginner’s guide , where the process of obtaining a prescription online and ordering your medication is explained.
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:: Who should take Allegra?
Allegra should be used by adults and children over 6 years old for the relief of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy throat, and itchy, watery, red eyes caused by seasonal allergies (hay fever).
Allegra is also used for the relief of chronic hives (urticaria).
See our comprehensive Guide to Allergies to learn more about what allergies are, what causes them, how they are treated and how to reduce your exposure to allergens.
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:: Who should not take Allegra?
You should not take Allegra if you are allergic to Allegra, fexofenadine hydrochloride or any of its ingredients.
Allegra should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It is not known if Allegra is secreted in human milk. Women should notify their doctor if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant while taking Allegra.
Allegra should be used with caution in geriatric patients and patients with severe kidney disease. If you have kidney problems, tell your doctor before taking Allegra. Depending on your age and the severity of your condition, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.
Only your healthcare provider can tell you for sure if you should take Allegra or not. Inform your healthcare provider, during either a physical or online consultation, about all the medicines you are taking, prescription or over-the-counter, and about any medical conditions you have or have had, including allergies.
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:: What are allergies?
This question requires its own frequently asked questions page.
See our extensive Allergy Guide for information including a
comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used decongestants, antihistamines (including Allegra), and intranasal corticosteroids for allergy-relief .
There, you will also find lists of steps you can take to help you avoid or decrease the risk of exposure to the common allergens or allergy triggers which are:
dust mites ,
mold ,
cockroach allergens ,
pet dander , and
pollen .
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:: How does Allegra work?
When you are exposed to a substance that your body has identified as an allergen (intruder) a chemical called histamine is released in your system. Histamine binds to cells causing allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat, and itchy, watery eyes.
Allegra blocks histamine from binding to cells by taking its place on the cells thereby stopping allergy symptoms from occurring.
See our extensive Allergies FAQ for more information on
the immune system response to allergens .
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:: How well does Allegra work?
For Seasonal Allergies:
Three 2-week clinical studies of over 1500 patients have shown that Allegra is an effective treatment for seasonal allergies. In these studies, patients receiving Allegra 60mg twice daily had significantly reduced total symptom scores (scores used to measure sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy palate, itchy throat, and itchy, watery and red eyes) compared to sugar pill.
Another 2 week study of over 800 patients showed that patients receiving Allegra 180mg once daily had significantly reduced total symptom scores (scores used to measure sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy palate, itchy throat, and itchy, watery and red eyes) compared to sugar pill.
For Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives):
Two 4-week clinical studies of over 700 patients have shown that Allegra is an effective treatment for chronic idiopathic urticaria or hives. In these studies patients receiving Allegra had a significant reduction in scores used to measure severity of urticaria compared to sugar pill.
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:: How safe is Allegra?
Allegra (fexofenadine hydrochloride) has been used as an antihistamine since 1995. Its safety and efficacy profile has been maintained by real-world experience as well as clinical trials.
Allegra has been approved by the FDA to successfully and safely treat seasonal allergies and chronic idiopathic urticaria (chronic hives). However, Allegra may not be for everyone. Be sure to read Who should not take Allegra? .
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:: What is the difference between Allegra and other antihistamines?
Allegra has the least occurence of drowsiness, and the 180mg tablets can be taken once daily. Here is a comparison table:
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Allegra
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Zyrtec
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Diphenhydramine*
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Dosing schedule (adults)
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60mg every 12 hours or 180mg once daily
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once daily
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every 4 to 6 hours
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Causes drowsiness
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rarely
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occasionally
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very frequently
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Approved for treatment of indoor (year-round) allergy symptoms
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no
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yes
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yes
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Approved for treatment of outdoor (seasonal) allergy symptoms
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yes
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yes
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yes
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Approved for use in children
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6 years or older
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6months or older
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6 years or older
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* Diphenhydramine is an over the counter antihistamine used for allergies, insomnia and a cough suppressant. Diphenhydramine is found in many preparations such as Benadryl Allergy, Benadryl Children’s Allergy and Tylenol Allergy in addition to generic formulations.
For a comparison of antihistamines such as Allegra to other classes of allergy relief medications, see our comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used decongestants, antihistamines, and intranasal corticosteroids for allergy-relief
in our extensive Allergy FAQ .
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:: What does Allegra look like?
Allegra (fexofenadine hydrochloride) manufactured by Aventis Pharmaceuticals is available as 30mg, 60mg and 180mg tablets and 60mg capsules.
Allegra 30mg tablets are round, film-coated and peach-colored, debossed with a stylized allegra e on one side and an underlined 03 on the other side.
Allegra 60mg tablets are oval, film-coated and peach-colored, debossed with a stylized allegra e on one side and an underlined 06 on the other side.
Allegra 180mg tablets are oblong, film-coated and peach-colored, debossed with a stylized allegra e on one side and an underlined 018 on the other side.
Allegra 60mg capsules have a white opaque cap and a pink opaque body, with allegra printed in black on the cap and 60 mg printed in black on the body.
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:: How do I take Allegra?
Allegra comes in 30, 60 and 180 mg tablets, and also in 60 mg capsules. Allegra can be taken with or without food.
If you are taking Allegra to treat Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis:
- Adults and Children 12 years or older:
Oral dosage form (Tablets or Capsules): The usual dose is 60mg twice daily or 180mg once daily.
- Children 6 to 11 years old:
Oral dosage form (Tablets): The usual dose is 30mg twice daily.
If you are taking Allegra to treat Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (chronic hives):
- Adults and Children 12 years or older:
Oral dosage form (Tablets or Capsules): The usual dose is 60mg twice daily.
- Children 6 to 11 years old:
Oral dosage form (Tablets): The usual dose is 30mg twice daily.
- Adults over age 60 and Patients with Kidney Disease:
Consult your physician. A reduced Allegra dose may be necessary.
* Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor will determine if Allegra is appropriate for you or adjust your dosage.
Your doctor may have a plan that varies from above, always follow your doctor’s recommendations. Do not take more medication than prescribed.
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:: What should I do if I miss a dose of Allegra?
If you miss a dose of Allegra, take it as soon as you remember it. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT double the dose to make up for a missed dose of Allegra. Do not take more tablets or capsules than your doctor prescribed.
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:: How long does it take Allegra to work?
Allegra starts to relieve allergy symptoms in as soon as 60 minutes.
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:: Do I need to take Allegra regularly?
During allergy season, when you know that you will most likely suffer allergy symptoms, take Allegra regularly. If you wait too long between doses, your symptoms will have a chance to worsen.
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:: How should I store Allegra?
Keep Allegra and all medications out of children's reach.
Store Allegra at room temperature in a tight container. Store away from moisture, heat and direct light. Do not keep medicine past the expiration date, dispose of properly.
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:: What are the possible side effects of Allegra?
The most common side effects are cold, flu, coughing, nausea, upset stomach, menstrual pain, headache, backache, accidental injury, dizziness, drowsiness and fatigue.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur with Allegra. Talk to your doctor about any side effects that seem unusual or that are especially bothersome when taking Allegra.
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:: What are the possible drug interactions of Allegra?
Inform your doctor, during either a physical or online consultation, about all the medicines you use, prescription and non-prescription. Certain medicines should never be used together. Some medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may change the dose, monitor the effects or take other precautions.
When you are taking Allegra, it is especially important that you inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
- Sporanox (itraconazole), Nizoral (ketoconazole): may increase Allegra blood levels.
- Biaxin (clarithromycin), erythromycin: may increase Allegra blood levels.
- Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium (such as Maalox) should not be
taken closely in time with Allegra.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Allegra.
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:: What other precautions should I take when using Allegra?
In addition to the above possible side effects of Allegra, please be aware of the following as they apply to you.
Driving and Hazardous Work: Although Allegra is not likely to cause drowsiness it is best to use caution before driving a car or engaging in hazardous work until you know how the Allegra affects you.
Consumption of Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption as it can cause excessive drowsiness.
Orange, Apple or Grapefruit Juice: They may decrease Allegra levels, so avoid taking them at the same time.
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding: Allegra should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It is not known if Allegra is secreted in human milk. Women should notify their doctor if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant while taking Allegra.
Kidney Disease: The side effects may be more likely due to potential for higher blood levels of Allegra. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.
Do NOT share your Allegra prescription with others, this can be a very dangerous practice.
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:: Can I drink alcohol while I'm taking Allegra?
You should limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the effects of drowsiness.
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:: Can I become dependent on Allegra?
There is no evidence that dependency occurs with Allegra.
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:: What are the symptoms of a possible overdose of Allegra?
Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness and dry mouth. If overdose is suspected, call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS) 911, or the poison control center immediately.
National Poison Control Center telephone number: 800-222-1222
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:: Is Allegra available over the counter?
No. Allegra is currently available by prescription only.
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:: How can I get an Allegra prescription online?
Go to our Allegra price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Allegra prices, no prior prescription required.
Our featured US-based online pharmacies work with US-licensed doctors and pharmacists to provide you with your prescriptions through an online consultation.
If this is your first time ordering Allegra online, see our beginner’s guide , where the process of obtaining a prescription online and ordering your medication is explained.
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:: How much does Allegra cost?
Some companies charge less per pill but charge you separately for their consultation and pharmacy dispensing fees. Others include these fees into their final pricing.
RxPriceCheck's featured pharmacies give you a free online medical consultation with your order. Be sure to compare Allegra prices before buying.
Usually, the more pills you buy, the cheaper the price per pill.
See our Allegra price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Allegra prices no prior prescription needed.
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:: What is generic Allegra and is it available?
The generic name for Allegra is fexofenadine hydrochloride. Only Allegra brand is currently available in the US.
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:: Is it safe to order Allegra or other medications from non-US
pharmacies?
Purchasing Allegra from non-US pharmacies can be potentially dangerous. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not recommend ordering medications online from pharmacies located outside the US, because it cannot guarantee the origin, quality or safety of the medication, or regulate the manufacturers. Therefore, it may be filled with other ingredients that may harm you, or it may be fake, sold as Allegra, but not contain the active ingredient fexofenadine hydrochloride.
RxPriceCheck.com only affiliates with online pharmacies that work with US licensed physicians and pharmacists, and sell FDA-approved Allegra manufactured by Aventis Pharmaceuticals. You can therefore choose from our list of online pharmacies with confidence.
See our Allegra price comparison page where you can select your preferred online US pharmacy with the lowest Allegra prices no prior prescription needed.
If this is your first time ordering Allegra online, see our beginner’s guide , where the process of obtaining a prescription online and ordering your medication is explained.
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* The information contained in RxPriceCheck.com is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider regarding your medical condition. All product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. View our terms of use .
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