Fexofenadine Hydrochloride

Generic Details

Generic Name

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride

Other Names

  • Fexofenadine HCl

Drug Class

  • Second-generation antihistamine

Chemical Formula

C32H39ClNO4

Molecular Weight

538.12 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Competitively antagonizes histamine H1 receptors

Indications

  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Chronic idiopathic urticaria

Common Dosage Forms

  • Oral tablets
  • Oral suspension

Typical Dosage

  • 120-180mg once daily for adults

Pediatric Dosage

  • Age 6-11 years: 30mg twice daily
  • Age 12-17 years: 60mg twice daily

Geriatric Dosage

  • Clinical monitoring for effectiveness and side effects recommended

Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any components of the formulation

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

  • Limited data available; use caution

Drug Interactions

  • Avoid concomitant use with fruit juices as they may decrease absorption

Overdose Symptoms

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth

Antidote for Overdose

  • Activated charcoal, symptomatic management

Storage Conditions

  • Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C)

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Has a large volume of distribution
  • Metabolism: Undergoes minimal hepatic metabolism
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in urine

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with renal impairment

Warnings

  • May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until effects are known

Others

  • Fexofenadine is a non-sedating antihistamine that is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to first-generation antihistamines.