Exfen
Generic Name
exfen-120-mg-tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| exfen 120 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Exfen 120 mg Tablet contains Fexofenadine Hydrochloride, a non-sedating antihistamine used to relieve symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For seasonal allergic rhinitis: 120 mg once daily. For chronic idiopathic urticaria: 180 mg once daily.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required, but monitor renal function in older patients.
Renal_impairment
For adults with impaired renal function, the recommended starting dose is 60 mg once daily for both seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
How to Take
Take Exfen Tablet orally with water. It is recommended to take it before a meal. Avoid taking with fruit juices (e.g., grapefruit, orange, apple juice) as they may reduce the absorption of fexofenadine.
Mechanism of Action
Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It effectively blocks the histamine H1 receptors, thereby preventing the actions of histamine, which include vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and stimulation of sensory nerve endings. This leads to the relief of allergy symptoms without significant central nervous system effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is typically within 1 hour.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the feces (approximately 80%) and urine (approximately 11-12%).
Half life
The elimination half-life is approximately 14.4 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in approximately 2-3 hours. Bioavailability is around 33%.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; approximately 5% of the total dose is metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to fexofenadine hydrochloride or any of the excipients.
- Children under 6 years of age (for 120 mg tablet).
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin and Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to result in increased plasma levels of fexofenadine. However, these increases were not associated with any increase in adverse events.
Aluminum- and Magnesium-containing Antacids
Concomitant administration with aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids (e.g., Maalox) can decrease the bioavailability of fexofenadine. It is recommended to separate the administration of Exfen and these antacids by approximately 2 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. In the event of an overdose, general symptomatic and supportive measures should be instituted. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove fexofenadine from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Exfen should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fexofenadine is excreted in human breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when Exfen is administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to fexofenadine hydrochloride or any of the excipients.
- Children under 6 years of age (for 120 mg tablet).
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin and Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to result in increased plasma levels of fexofenadine. However, these increases were not associated with any increase in adverse events.
Aluminum- and Magnesium-containing Antacids
Concomitant administration with aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids (e.g., Maalox) can decrease the bioavailability of fexofenadine. It is recommended to separate the administration of Exfen and these antacids by approximately 2 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. In the event of an overdose, general symptomatic and supportive measures should be instituted. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove fexofenadine from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Exfen should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fexofenadine is excreted in human breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when Exfen is administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
FDA/DGDA Approved
Patent Status
Patent expired, Generic available
Clinical Trials
Fexofenadine has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria across various patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- No specific routine laboratory monitoring is required.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to avoid taking Exfen with fruit juices to ensure optimal absorption.
- Emphasize that while it's a non-sedating antihistamine, individual responses to drowsiness can vary.
- Counsel patients on identifying and avoiding allergens.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Avoid taking Exfen with fruit juices.
- If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, consult your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Although Exfen is generally non-sedating, some individuals may experience drowsiness or dizziness. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medicine affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Try to identify and avoid known allergens that trigger your symptoms.
- Maintain good personal hygiene and keep your living environment clean to minimize allergen exposure.
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