What is this medication for?
This combination medication contains two active ingredients:
- Pseudoephedrine belongs to a group of medications called decongestants. Pseudoephedrine works by clearing and draining the nasal passages and sinuses.
- Fexofenadine belongs to a group of medications called second-generation antihistamines. During an allergic reaction, the body produces a chemical called histamine, which causes allergy symptoms. Fexofenadine works by blocking the action of histamine in the body to reduce allergy symptoms.
Together, fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine work to relieve the symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, and throat irritation, as well as red, itchy, and watery eyes.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Allegra-D 24 Hour® is available as:
- tablet (extended release)
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Adults and children 12 years of age and older: The usual dose of the 12 hour formulation is one caplet twice daily. People with poor kidney function may be prescribed a lower dose by their doctor (i.e., one caplet once daily). The usual dose of the 24 hour formulation is one caplet once daily. People with poor kidney function should avoid the 24 hour formulation.
Take this medication on an empty stomach with water. Fruit juices such as grapefruit, orange, and apple may reduce the stomach absorption. Do not take this medication within 2 hours of taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium. Swallow the medication whole. Do not crush or chew.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Who should NOT take this medication?
This medication should not be used by anyone who:
- has had an unusual reaction (such as dizziness, weakness, shakiness, trouble sleeping, or abnormal heartbeat) to pseudoephedrine or related medications
- has narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, severe high blood pressure, or severe coronary artery disease
- is allergic to fexofenadine, pseudoephedrine, or any of the ingredients of the medication
- is currently on monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) or who has taken (MAO) inhibitors within 14 days
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