ULTIGRA 120 TABLETS
FEXOFENIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE TABLETS USP 120 MG
What it does
Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms.
Commonly used for: seasonal allergies (hay fever), chronic hives (urticaria)
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
Ask about this medicine
Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.
Hard to find? We help patients in Kenya source rare medicines. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.
Source this medicineRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:29:24 · updated 2026-07-20 11:03:38
About this medicine
Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms.
What it treats
- seasonal allergies (hay fever)
- chronic hives (urticaria)
How it works
It blocks the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Who it's for
Fexofenadine is suitable for adults and children with allergy symptoms.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: fexofenidine
Fexofenadine is a second-generation antihistamine used primarily for the relief of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis and urticaria. It is less sedating than first-generation antihistamines due to its limited penetration across the blood-brain barrier, making it a preferred choice for patients who require allergy relief without the sedative effects.
Indications
- Allergic rhinitis
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Chronic idiopathic urticaria
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing guidelines for paediatric patients.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines for adults.
Mechanism of action
Fexofenadine works as a selective antagonist of peripheral H1 receptors, inhibiting the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. By blocking these receptors, fexofenadine reduces the symptoms of allergies such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
Pharmacodynamics
Fexofenadine exhibits a rapid onset of action, typically effective within one hour of administration, and its effects can last for up to 24 hours. It does not significantly affect the central nervous system, which minimizes the risk of sedation. The drug is well-tolerated in most patients, with a side effect profile that includes headache, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
Pharmacokinetics
Fexofenadine is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 2 to 3 hours post-administration. It has a bioavailability of about 33% due to first-pass metabolism. The drug is largely excreted unchanged in the urine, with an elimination half-life of approximately 14.4 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing in most cases.
Adverse effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Somnolence
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
Interactions
- Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium may reduce the absorption of fexofenadine
- Erythromycin and ketoconazole may increase plasma concentrations of fexofenadine
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Caution should be exercised when driving or operating machinery until individual response to the medication is known
Pregnancy
Fexofenadine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Limited data available.
Breast-feeding
Fexofenadine is excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.