Fexofenadine is a medication used to treat seasonal allergy symptoms such as hives and itchy skin. According to MedlinePlus, fexofenadine is an antihistamine that works to prevent histamine (a naturally occurring substance in your body) from causing allergy symptoms. Fexofenadine is available as a tablet, and you will typically take 60 or 180mg daily, says the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
In a placebo-controlled study of 679 patients receiving 60mg of fexofenadine two times daily, the National Library of Medicine says that 2.5 percent developed a viral infection such as the cold or flu, 1.6 percent developed nausea, 1.5 percent experienced menstrual irregularities and 1.3 percent developed drowsiness, indigestion and fatigue. In another placebo-controlled study of 283 patients getting 180mg of fexofenadine daily, 10.6 percent had a headache, 3.2 percent developed an upper respiratory tract infection such as a cold, and 2.8 percent experienced back pain. These symptoms are typical and should not cause undue concern. However, call your doctor when these side effects remain for approximately three to four days.
Dangerous Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, fexofenadine can cause dysphagia (trouble swallowing), difficulty breathing, hoarseness and a rash. It can also cause swelling of your feet, tongue, throat, lips, legs and eyes. According to the National Library of Medicine, fexofenadine can cause accidental injury, fever, coughing and otitis media (ear infection). Get emergency medical help when these side effects arise, as they are all potentially fatal.
Warnings
Do not take fexofenadine if you are allergic to it. Such symptoms as trouble breathing, hives and facial, throat or tongue swelling may ensue.
The National Library of Medicine says that it is unknown whether fexofenadine can affect your unborn child or contaminate your breast milk. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as she will decide if it is best to continue or discontinue fexofenadine.
Tell your doctor if you're taking prescription medications such as erythromycin or ketoconazole, says MedlinePlus. Also, inform her about your non-prescription medications, vitamins, herbs, supplements and minerals, as they can all interact with fexofenadine and cause the aforementioned side effects.
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