Fexofenadine, the generic name for the brand name drug Allegra, is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms associated with seasonal allergies, a condition called allergic rhinitis. This medication is an antihistamine that works by limiting the action of histamine, a substance that induces allergy symptoms, within the human body. Fexofenadine can also be used to treat skin rash symptoms in patients over the age of 6 months. Before beginning treatment with this medication, patients should discuss the potential side effects of fexofenadine with a pharmacist.
Headache or Dizziness
Patients taking fexofenadine can experience headache pain or dizziness as side effects of treatment, reports Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. Painful headache side effects can be uncomfortable and may affect a patient's ability to remain focused and alert throughout the day. Sensations of dizziness may cause an affected patient to appear unstable when attempting to stand or walk about normally. These side effects of fexofenadine are temporary and will subside with continued use of this medication. Patients can control headache pain through the use of an over-the-counter analgesic medication, such as acetaminophen.
Back or Body Pain
Treatment with fexofenadine can cause body pain side effects in certain patients. Achy or painful sensations can arise within the back or extremities, such as the hands or feet. If these side effects of fexofenadine persist or become worse, affected patients should contact a doctor.
Upset Stomach
Stomach upset side effects can arise during treatment with this medication. Adults taking fexofenadine may experience temporary stomach pain or discomfort. Children may develop stomach upset symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, reports the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. These side effects can lead to a decreased appetite in patients during treatment with fexofenadine. Eating a snack or meal before taking a dose of this antihistamine can help limit the severity of stomach upset symptoms in certain patients.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Children taking fexofenadine are at an increased risk of developing an upper respiratory tract infection during treatment. During clinical trials for this medication, approximately 3 percent of pediatric patients between the ages of 6 and 11 taking 30 mg of fexofenadine two times per day developed an upper respiratory tract infection, reports the FDA. Children can also develop side effects of cough in conjunction with this infection. Patients who exhibit these fexofenadine side effects require additional medical care.
Fever or Earache
Fever or earache side effects can arise in certain patients taking fexofenadine--particularly young children. A fever can be uncomfortable and may be accompanied by headache, chills or sweating. Earache pain may cause children to appear unusually fussy or irritable while taking fexofenadine. If these side effects emerge, affected patients should seek further care from a medical professional.
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