Fexofenadine
ALLEGRA
Pronunciation: fex-oe-FEN-a-deen (a-LE-gra)
“Allergic to FedEx”
What it isSecond-generation H1 antagonist and P-gp substrate; allergic rhinitis and urticaria.
Why this oneActively excluded from the CNS by P-gp, making it the least sedating antihistamine.
What limits itFruit juice reduces absorption substantially through OATP inhibition. Cations block it; renally adjusted.
Fexofenadine prescription history
Animated chart of estimated U.S. prescriptions per year, H1 antihistamines (1944–2026). Fexofenadine enters in 1996 (estimated).
FDA-approved for
- allergy (1996)
Principal riskFruit juice substantially reduces absorption
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilityReduced absorption with fruit juice; renal dosing considerations
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
NO BOXED WARNINGS
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allergy relief | ≥12 yr | 18 mg QD | 1 tablet/24h |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Take with water.
- Do not take more than 1 tablet in 24 hours.
- Children under 12: do not use.
- Adults 65 and older: ask a doctor.
Available strengths
- tab 60, 180 mg
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
Cost
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Self-check
- What helps keep fexofenadine out of the CNS?
P-glycoprotein. - How can fruit juice affect fexofenadine absorption?
Reduce it through OATP inhibition.