Fexofenadine

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on 22/03/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Fexofenadine

CHINESE NAME: 非索非那定

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Telfast 退敏快, Bosnum/ Bosnum 180, Kofixir 120/ Kofixir 180

DRUG CLASS: Antihistamine (second generation)

USED FOR: Urticaria, seasonal allergic rhinitis

OTHER DRUGS IN THE SAME CLASS: Desloratadine, Ebastine, Epinastine, Cetirizine, Levocetirizine, Loratadine

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS:
– 60mg, 120mg, 180mg (tablets)
– 30mg/5ml (oral suspension)

What is Fexofenadine for?

Fexofenadine is a non-drowsy (second-generation) antihistamine medication. It is used to treat and prevent allergies. Allergic conditions include hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and hives (urticaria). Antihistamines can also be used to manage the symptoms of the common cold such as runny nose and sneezing. Fexofenadine relieves symptoms of itching, runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing.

How to use it?

Fexofenadine is taken by mouth either by conventional tablets or syrup (usually for children). The doses for different uses and age groups are listed below:

For allergic rhinitis

Adult/ Child above 11 years: 120 mg daily in 1 or 2 divided doses OR 180 mg once daily

Child 2-11 years: 30 mg twice daily

For allergic conditions

Adult/ Child above 11 years: 180 mg once daily

Child 2-11 years: 30 mg twice daily

Child 6 months to 2 years: 15 mg twice daily

What are the side effects of Fexofenadine?

In most people when taken at usual dosage, Fexofenadine does not cause drowsiness. However, some people may experience a small degree of drowsiness. Other side effects of Fexofenadine include headache, nausea, diarrhoea, nervousness and increased heart rate. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how you respond to Fexofenadine.

Who should not take Fexofenadine?

Anyone who has an allergy to fexofenadine or any of its components.

Pharmacist Tips:

Common dosing schedule:
Avoid taking Fexofenadine with fruit juice.
Do not take antacids that have magnesium or aluminum at the same time as this drug, because they reduce the absorption of Fexofenadine. Separate them for at least 2 hours.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications that Fexofenadine may interact with:

1. Magnesium- or aluminium-containing antacids
2. Central nervous system depressants (e.g. flunitrazepam, oxycodone)
3. St John’s Wort

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medications, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Fexofenadine in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Fexofenadine tablets are over-the-counter medicines and can be purchased without a prescription from any pharmacy in Hong Kong by speaking with a pharmacist. It can also be obtained from doctors. It can also be obtained from doctors.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk/

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Fexofenadine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.