Fexofenadine tablets treat allergic rhinitis, commonly caused by hay fever and other allergies.

How to take Fexofenadine

You might only need to take Fexofenadine on the days when you have symptoms. This could be during the summer months when the pollen count is high. Or you may need to take the medication more regularly to prevent symptoms. Our clinicians will let you know how you should take your medication.

• The recommended dose is one 120mg tablet a day.
• Take a tablet with water before a meal.
• Swallow the tablet whole, don’t crush or split it.
• If you can, take the medication at the same time each day at a time you’ll remember.
• If you forget a dose don’t take a double dose. Instead take your next dose at your usual time.  

Fexofenadine starts to work within an hour to relieve symptoms and effects last for 24 hours (until your next dose). Fexofenadine 120mg is specifically licensed for the treatment of hay fever.

How does Fexofenadine work?

Fexofenadine works to relieve allergy symptoms. It contains the active ingredient fexofenadine hydrochloride, which is an antihistamine.

Antihistamines treat allergic rhinitis symptoms by blocking the effects of histamines. Histamines are produced when you encounter something you are allergic to (e.g. pollen, animal hair or insect bites). Symptoms of an allergic reaction caused by histamines include:

• Itchy, watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Hives
• Itching
• Headache
• Feeling tired

“Allergy symptoms occur when your body tries to fight off substances like pollen. Allergies are very common and 1 in 4 people in the UK will be affected at some point in their lives. But treatment is available and can help relieve uncomfortable symptoms.” - Dr Bhavini Shah

How effective is Fexofenadine?

Fexofenadine is an effective treatment for the early stages of an allergic reaction. It usually takes one hour to relieve allergy symptoms. Fexofenadine lasts for 24 hours (until your next dose).

As the medication is classed as a non-drowsy treatment, it may be a better solution than other antihistamines.

Are there any side effects to taking Fexofenadine?

Like all medicines, there is a small chance that you may experience side effects when taking Fexofenadine.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Headache
  Drowsiness
  Feeling sick (nausea)
  Dizziness

Even though the medication is classed as non-drowsy, uncommon side effects which may affect up to 1 in 100 people, include:

• Tiredness
• Sleepiness

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If you experience any side effects speak to your doctor or message us in your account.

Will Fexofenadine interact with any other medications I’m taking?

Some medications will interfere with Fexofenadine and increase your chance of side effects. As always, it’s important to tell your clinician if you are taking any other medications when you request Fexofenadine.

If you are taking indigestion remedies containing aluminium or magnesium you should leave two hours between the times that you take Fexofenadine and the remedy.

Certain drinks can increase your risk of side effects, you shouldn’t drink:

• Grapefruit juice
• Orange juice
• Apple juice
• Alcohol – can make you feel sleepy

Alternative treatments for allergic rhinitis

If you know what the cause of your allergic rhinitis is, trying to limit your exposure to this allergen (the thing that triggers your symptoms) should help reduce your symptoms. Regular cleaning of the nasal passages with a saltwater solution should also help keep your nose free of irritants.

Some people use steroid nasal sprays to help manage their allergic rhinitis symptoms. You could also combine Fexofenadine with a steroid nasal spray or decongestant.

LloydsPharmacy have a range of eye-drops and nasal sprays that can also help with hay fever symptoms. These may be suitable to use with Fexofenadine, read the patient leaflet or ask your pharmacist for advice.

Fexofenadine, pregnancy and breastfeeding

Taking Fexofenadine while pregnant or breastfeeding isn’t recommended. This is because there isn’t enough research around Fexofenadine and pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Speak to your GP or pharmacist for hay fever medication you can take when pregnant.