What is Fexofenadine?

Fexofenadine is an effective antihistamine medicine used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever.

Fexofenadine works by blocking histamine receptors in the spinal cord to prevent or reduce the symptoms caused by the release of histamines in response to an allergic reaction.

Fexofenadine is classed as a non-drowsy antihistamine, it offers an effective alternative if previous non-prescription hay fever treatments do not relieve the symptoms of hay fever.

How does Fexofenadine work?

Fexofenadine contains fexofenadine hydrochloride which is a non-drowsy antihistamine that helps relieve the symptoms of hay fever by blocking histamine receptors in the spinal cord.

Histamines act as neurotransmitters and are released in the inflammatory response during an allergic reaction, they cause a chain reaction resulting in allergy symptoms.

Fexofenadine is highly effective and regarded as one of the most reliable hay fever treatments; especially in the treatment of chronic symptoms.

How do I use Fexofenadine?

Fexofenadine can be taken as a one-off dose for relief from occasional hay fever symptoms. For chronic, persisting symptoms you may be advised by your GP to take fexofenadine on a daily basis.

In the anticipation of a high pollen count or increased exposure to a particular allergen, you may be advised to take fexofenadine on a daily basis for an extended period of time.

Fexofenadine can also be taken alongside other non-prescription hay fever treatments such as nasal sprays and topical skin creams if necessary.

What are the benefits of taking Fexofenadine?

The benefits of taking fexofenadine in the treatment of hay fever consist of:

• Fast relief from hay fever symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, headache and itchy, red, watering eyes.
• Suitable for occasional or persistent symptoms.
• Only a single daily dose is required.
• Fexofenadine is classed as non-drowsy antihistamine.

What dosage of Fexofenadine should I take?

For the age 18 and above, it is recommended to take one tablet with water once a day before a meal. You may take fexofenadine daily to treat chronic hay fever symptoms or on an ‘as needed’ basis if symptoms are infrequent.

If you are suffering from chronic hay fever, please consult your GP for advice to see the suitable dosage for you.

How long does it take for Fexofenadine to work?

Fexofenadine usually starts to work within an hour of taking the dose, providing relief for up to 24 hours. Some patients may even experience symptom relief in less than 30 minutes.

Please do not take more than the recommended dose as it would not make the medication work any quicker.

It is important to follow the user leaflet information guidance and advice given from your GP.

How long does Fexofenadine last for?

Fexofenadine, when taken as recommended, is usually effective for up to 24 hours.

For continued hay fever symptom relief, with prior consultation with your GP, it is important to take fexofenadine daily. If you missed a daily dose of fexofenadine, do not compensate for the missed dose. Simply continue with your usual dosage schedule recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.

We do advise you to firstly consult with your GP to work out a suitable dosage for you.

What is the difference between Telfast and Fexofenadine?

Telfast is the branded name for generic Fexofenadine. They both contain the same amount of the active ingredient fexofenadine hydrochloride and are medically equivalent.

The main difference is that the generic Fexofenadine version is cheaper and a more affordable option than the branded version, Telfast

Like all medicines, Fexofenadine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

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

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Dizziness

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Fatigue
• Sleepiness

Information Leaflet

Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.

• View the patient information leaflet for Fexofenadine 120mg.