Fexocon
Generic Name
fexocon-180-mg-tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| fexocon 180 mg tablet | ৳ 9.00 | ৳ 90.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Fexofenadine is a non-sedating antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It helps reduce sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes/nose/throat, and skin itching and rash.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: 180 mg once daily. For Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: 180 mg once daily.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment required for elderly patients with normal renal function. Monitor renal function in elderly patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
In moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <80 mL/min), an initial dose of 60 mg once daily is recommended. Patients on 180 mg should consult their physician for dose reduction or alternative strength if renal impairment is present.
How to Take
Take orally with water, preferably before a meal. Do not take with fruit juice (e.g., grapefruit, orange, apple) as these can significantly reduce absorption. Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of this medicine.
Mechanism of Action
Fexofenadine selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors, thereby preventing the binding of histamine and inhibiting the subsequent allergic reactions such as vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and smooth muscle contraction. Unlike first-generation antihistamines, it has minimal penetration of the blood-brain barrier, resulting in low sedative effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in feces (80%) and urine (11%).
Half life
11-15 hours
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Bioavailability is approximately 33%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 1-3 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver (less than 5% of the total dose), primarily through the CYP450 system.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any excipients present in the tablet formulation.
Drug Interactions
P-glycoprotein Inhibitors
Fexofenadine is a substrate for P-glycoprotein. Co-administration with P-gp inhibitors may increase fexofenadine levels.
Ketoconazole and Erythromycin
Concurrent administration of fexofenadine with ketoconazole or erythromycin may increase fexofenadine plasma concentrations. Monitor for increased side effects.
Antacids containing Aluminum and Magnesium
Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide may reduce the absorption of fexofenadine. Separate administration 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. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Limited information is available on fexofenadine overdose. Symptoms reported include dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove fexofenadine from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Studies in animals have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fexofenadine is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman. Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any excipients present in the tablet formulation.
Drug Interactions
P-glycoprotein Inhibitors
Fexofenadine is a substrate for P-glycoprotein. Co-administration with P-gp inhibitors may increase fexofenadine levels.
Ketoconazole and Erythromycin
Concurrent administration of fexofenadine with ketoconazole or erythromycin may increase fexofenadine plasma concentrations. Monitor for increased side effects.
Antacids containing Aluminum and Magnesium
Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide may reduce the absorption of fexofenadine. Separate administration 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. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Limited information is available on fexofenadine overdose. Symptoms reported include dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove fexofenadine from the blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Studies in animals have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fexofenadine is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman. Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the manufacturing date, when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
FDA approved
Patent Status
Generic available
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety profile of fexofenadine for both seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. Studies have consistently shown its ability to alleviate symptoms with minimal side effects, particularly central nervous system effects, compared to first-generation antihistamines.
Lab Monitoring
- Generally not required for routine therapeutic use. No specific laboratory tests are indicated to monitor the efficacy or safety of fexofenadine.
Doctor Notes
- Reinforce to patients the critical importance of avoiding fruit juices (especially grapefruit, orange, apple) when taking fexofenadine, as this interaction significantly impairs drug absorption and efficacy.
- Advise patients that while fexofenadine is generally non-sedating, individual responses can vary. Caution should be exercised if driving or operating machinery until they ascertain their personal response.
- For patients with known renal impairment, consider initiating therapy with a lower dose (e.g., 60 mg once daily) and adjust based on clinical response and renal function monitoring.
Patient Guidelines
- Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with water.
- Avoid consuming grapefruit, orange, or apple juice concurrently with this medication.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, you are currently taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it's almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to compensate for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Fexofenadine is generally known as a non-sedating antihistamine. However, individual responses to medication can vary. Patients should assess their own response before engaging in activities requiring full mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid known allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, pet dander) that trigger your symptoms.
- Maintain good personal hygiene, especially during allergy seasons, by frequently washing hands and changing clothes after outdoor activities.
- Consider using air purifiers or HEPA filters at home to reduce indoor allergens.
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