Fexofenadine
Fexofenadine is a second-generation antihistamine used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It works by blocking histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes without causing significant drowsiness. This medication is available by prescription and over-the-counter in various forms including tablets, capsules, and oral suspension.
Fexofenadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine that treats seasonal allergies and chronic hives by blocking histamine receptors.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R06AX26
- RxNorm
- 87636
- Generic
- Fexofenadine
- Class
- atc-r06
- Brands
- Wal-Fex, Wal-Fex D, Allegra-D, Allegra
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 14.4
- Onset (min)
- 60
- Duration (h)
- 24
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, oral suspension, capsule
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, Japan, India
- Monitoring
- renal function
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 180mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 30mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 180mg once daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks; fexofenadine should only be used if clearly needed
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use near term unless benefits outweigh risks
fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse with caution
fexofenadine passes into breast milk in small amounts; use only if benefits outweigh risks to infant
monitor infant for drowsiness, irritability, or feeding changes
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
under 6 yearsweight-based dosing required
use only pediatric formulations; do not exceed recommended dose for age and weight
monitor for sedation, dry mouth, urinary retention
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
6 to 12 yearsage/weight-based dosing
approved for use in children 6 years and older; follow pediatric dosing guidelines
standard monitoring for adverse effects
geriatric
over 65 yearsno specific adjustment required
generally well tolerated; use standard adult dosing; consider renal function
monitor renal function periodically
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno dose adjustment needed for mild to moderate impairment
no dose adjustment required for creatinine clearance above 30 mL/min
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
severereduce dose to 180mg once daily
use reduced dose in severe renal impairment (CrCl less than 30 mL/min)
monitor renal function regularly
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno dose adjustment required
no dose adjustment needed for mild to moderate hepatic impairment
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
FDA Approval Year
FDA approval year for fexofenadine
Drug class
ATC classification for fexofenadine
Common uses
Therapeutic indications
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological mechanism
Fexofenadine is FDA-approved for treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) in adults and children 2 years and older, as well as chronic idiopathic urticaria (chronic hives) in adults and children 6 months and older. It effectively reduces symptoms including sneezing, rhinorrhea, itchy nose/throat/eyes, and watery eyes associated with allergic reactions.
Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1 receptor antagonist. It works by blocking histamine from binding to H1 receptors in various tissues, thereby preventing the inflammatory cascade that causes allergic symptoms. As a second-generation antihistamine, it has reduced ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which minimizes sedative effects compared to first-generation antihistamines.
Fexofenadine should be avoided in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It may interact with antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, fruit juices, and certain other medications. The medication is generally well-tolerated with common side effects including headache, back pain, and minor gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients with renal impairment may require dose adjustment. Safety during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy