Fexofenadine (Telfast, Allegra): antihistamine for hay fever and urticaria

Everything you need to know about taking fexofenadine

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What is fexofenadine?

Fexofenadine hydrochloride is a non-sedating antihistamine.

Fexofenadine is available as tablets in three strengths – 30mg, 120mg and 180mg.

Fexotenadine is a generic medicine, it is available as the brand name Telfast in the UK, in the US the brand name is Allergra.

Fexofenadine is only available on prescription in the UK.

What is fexofenadine used for?

▪️ Treating hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) in adults and children aged six years and over.

▪️ Treating a long-term itchy nettle-type rash or hives (chronic idiopathic urticaria) in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over.

      How does fexofenadine work?

      Fexofenadine hydrochloride works by preventing the actions of histamine - a substance produced by the body when it reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen or pet fur (an allergen). Histamine acts on histamine receptors, causing a chain reaction that results in allergic symptoms.


      Fexofenadine blocks histamine receptors and so stops the chain reaction that causes the symptoms of the allergy. It usually starts to work within half an hour to an hour after taking a dose.

      Fexofenadine also helps relieve a type of itchy skin rash called chronic idiopathic urticaria. This is similar to the nettle-type rash or hives that you can get with an allergic reaction, but has no apparent cause. Blocking the actions of histamine relieves the itching and reduces the rash associated with this condition.

      Read more about fexofenadine

        Last updated: 14.08.2019

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