Alerfex
Generic Name
Fexofenadine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| alerfex 120 mg tablet | ৳ 9.00 | ৳ 90.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Alerfex 120 mg Tablet contains Fexofenadine, a non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For seasonal allergic rhinitis: 120 mg once daily. For chronic idiopathic urticaria: 180 mg once daily.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is recommended for elderly patients unless they have renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
For adults with impaired renal function, a starting dose of 60 mg once daily is recommended for both indications.
How to Take
Alerfex tablets should be taken orally with water, with or without food. Do not take with fruit juice.
Mechanism of Action
Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It works by blocking histamine, a natural substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is approximately 1 hour.
Excretion
Approximately 80% is excreted unchanged in feces and 11% in urine.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is 11 to 15 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in approximately 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Undergoes negligible hepatic metabolism (approx. 5% of total dose).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin and Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to increase fexofenadine plasma levels, but this was not associated with any increase in adverse effects.
Antacids (aluminum and magnesium-containing)
Concomitant administration with antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide may reduce fexofenadine bioavailability. It is advisable to separate the administration by 2 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Fexofenadine is not effectively removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Fexofenadine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in human breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when fexofenadine is administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin and Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to increase fexofenadine plasma levels, but this was not associated with any increase in adverse effects.
Antacids (aluminum and magnesium-containing)
Concomitant administration with antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide may reduce fexofenadine bioavailability. It is advisable to separate the administration by 2 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Fexofenadine is not effectively removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Fexofenadine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in human breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when fexofenadine is administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Fexofenadine has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for allergic conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to avoid taking with fruit juices as it can reduce efficacy.
- Emphasize the non-sedating nature of fexofenadine compared to first-generation antihistamines.
- Counsel patients on proper dosage and administration to maximize therapeutic benefit and minimize risks.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Avoid taking with fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple) as they can reduce the drug's effectiveness.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Consult your doctor if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Alerfex is generally considered non-drowsy. However, individuals should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid known allergens where possible.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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