What is fexofenadin?
Fexofenadin is an antihistaminic agent of the third generation and the active metabolite of terfenadin. It is used for symptomatic treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
Fexofenadin is available under the name Telfast® and as a generic. It is distinguished by a particularly low sedation and is in studies the antihistaminic with the best data position on driving ability. Fexofenadin practically does not pass the blood-brain barrier.
In contrast to his predecessor Terfenadin, Fexofenadin has no risk for cardiac arrhythmias (QT extension).
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Fexofenadinhydrochlorid
Fexofenadin selectively blocks the peripheral H1 receptors:
Active mechanism:
- Selective blockade of H1 histamine receptors
- inhibits histamine-mediated vascular expansion and edema formation
- Reduces itching, sneezing and nostrils
- In addition antiallergic properties (relieved leukotriene release)
Special features:
- Does the blood-brain barrier practically not fit (substrate of P-glycoprotein)
- No relevant metabolism via CYP enzymes
- No QT extension (safe for the heart)
- No anticholine effects
Initiation of action: Fast action within 1 hour. Maximum effect after 2–3 hours. Working time 24 hours.
Who is it suitable for?
Fexofenadin is suitable for:
- Adults and young people from 12 years old with seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria from 12 years
- Persons who depend on driving skills (occupational drivers, pilots)
Especially recommended at:
- Professionals who must remain unqualified
- If other antihistamines cause fatigue
- Patients with cardiac history (no QT extension)
Not suitable:
- Children under 12 years (120/180 mg tablets)
- Heavy kidney or liver failure (dose adjustment)
- hypersensitivity to Fexofenadin
Available Dosages
Season allergic rhinitis:
- 120 mg once a day
Chronic Urticaria:
- 180 mg once a day
Available starches:
- 120 mg film tablets (Heuschnupfen)
- 180 mg film tablets (Urtikaria)
Dosis adjustment:
- Renal insufficiency: start dose 60 mg once a day
- No dose adjustment for light to medium liver failure
Application duration:
- Seasonal: During the pollen season
- At Urtikaria: To the end of symptoms, according to medical recommendation
How to Take
Intake:
- Take once a day before a meal
- Suck with water (no grapefruit juice!)
- Always at the same time
Important notes:
- Do NOT take grapefruit, orange or apple juice (reduced)
- take antazida (aluminum/magnesium) at a distance of 2 hours
- Forgotten dose: Next dose at the usual time, do not repeat
Tips:
- Take tap water best with a glass
- Fruit juices can reduce up to 36%
- Regular intake for optimal protection during pollen season
Contraindications
**Fexofenadin must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to Fexofenadin or any of the other constituents
Preview at:
- Restricted kidney function (dose reduction to 60 mg)
- Restricted liver function
- Older patients (increased exposure possible)
- Cardiovascular diseases in prehistory
pregnant and breastfeeding: Should be taken during pregnancy only with obligatory indication. Animal tests showed no teratogenicity. Fexofenadin is not completely clarified. Be careful in the silence.
Possible Side Effects
Family (1–10 %):
- Headaches
- Sleep (rare, < 2 %)
- nausea
- Squeeze
** Occasionally (0.1-1 %):* *
- Mouth dryness
- fatigue
- Sleep disorders
- Gastrointestinal complaints
Selten:
- hypersensitivity reactions (hardness, angioedema)
- Tachycardia
- diarrhea
Security profile: Fexofenadin is one of the safest antihistamines. In driving simulator studies and pilots, no impairment of performance was found, even with double dosage.
Interactions
Increased fexofenadin level by:
- Erythromycin (antibiotic)
- Ketoconazole (antimycotic)
- Verapamil (Calzium Channel Blocker)
Reduced recording by:
- Grapefruit juice, orange juice, apple juice (hemum OATP transporter)
- Antazida containing aluminium hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide
No relevant interaction with:
- Alcohol (no strengthening of sedation)
- CYP enzyme-dependent drugs
Important: Take Fexofenadin with water, not with fruit juices. Take antazida at a distance of at least 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is fexofenadin right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.