Fexofenadine Generic

Fexofenadine was originally developed by Sanofi Aventis under the brand name, Allegra. When a pharmaceutical company develops a new drug under patent protection, it holds a 20-year exclusive right to manufacture the drug, after which, other pharmaceuticals can start manufacturing generic versions of the said drug.

Criterion for Approval for Generic Drugs

To obtain approval from the US Food and Drugs Administration, generic drugs must:

  • contain active ingredients that are identical with the innovator drug
  • be the same in dosage form, strength and route of administration
  • have the same use indications and be bioequivalent
  • meet the same batch requirements for strength, purity, identity and quality
  • must meet the same manufacturing practice regulation required by the FDA for innovator products

Since the brand name Allegra has come off patent, the drug is now available as a Fexofenadine generic drug and sold under the name Fexofenadine Hydrochloride tablets.

Purpose and Usage of Fexofenadine Generic Drug

Whether it comes as Allegra or as a Fexofenadine generic drug, Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is as potent as the innovator drug in relieving symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria in adults and in children six years old and above. As a ‘second generation’ antihistamine, it causes less sedative effects and drowsiness than the ‘first generation’ medications because it does not readily enter the brain from the blood. This medication can be taken orally on an empty or full stomach. However, antacids with magnesium or aluminum can decrease the body’s absorption of the drug, which is why it is recommended not to take antacids within two hours of taking the Fexofenadine generic drug.

Side Effects of Fexofenadine Generic Drug

Just like its brand name, the Fexofenadine generic drug has some side effects, which may include:

  • back pain
  • menstrual cramps
  • upset stomach
  • cough
  • fever
  • earache
  • stuffy nose
  • dizziness

The patient should notify his / her physician immediately if any of the above mentioned side effects persist. While this drug does not normally cause drowsiness at recommended doses, the patient should exercise extreme caution when he / she feels dizzy especially when engaging in activities that require alertness like using machinery or driving a vehicle. While a serious side effect to this medication is very unlikely, it is advisable to immediately seek medical attention if such symptoms occurs.

Some symptoms of allergic reactions to this drug may include:

  • severe dizziness
  • swelling
  • rash
  • itchiness
  • difficulty in breathing

Some Precautions to be Taken Before Using Fexofenadine Generic

Before the patient takes Fexofenadine generic drug, he / she should inform the physician about any history of drug allergies, if any. To be on the safe side, the patient should also inform the physician about past medical history, especially if it involves heart problems or kidney disease. The patient should limit his / her intake of alcoholic beverages because it could intensify the side effects of the medication. Seniors, who tend to be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, should use it with caution. The patient should speak to the physician if she is pregnant, breast-feeding or plans to have a baby during the treatment period as it has not been known if this medication will have any adverse effect on the baby or fetus.