Medicine Information

Histafen

Name: Histafen
Brand: Histafen
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet120 mgAntihistamine, Non-sedatingATC: R06AE07

Generic Name

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
histafen 120 mg tablet	৳ 8.50	৳ 85.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Histafen 120 mg Tablet contains Fexofenadine Hydrochloride, a non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It helps alleviate sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes, and itching skin.

Uses & Indications

Relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children 12 years of age and older (e.g., sneezing, rhinorrhea, itchy nose/palate/throat, itchy/watery/red eyes).

Treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children 12 years of age and older (e.g., relief of pruritus and decrease in the number of wheals).

Dosage

Adults

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: 120 mg once daily. Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: 180 mg once daily or 60 mg twice daily.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is generally required in the elderly, but caution is advised in patients with impaired renal function.

Renal_impairment

In patients with impaired renal function, the recommended starting dose is 60 mg once daily.

How to Take

Take orally with water, preferably before a meal. Do not take with fruit juices (e.g., grapefruit, orange, apple) as they can reduce absorption.

Mechanism of Action

Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It works by blocking histamine, a natural substance that the body produces during an allergic reaction. By blocking H1-receptors, it prevents histamine from binding and exerting its effects, thereby reducing allergic symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Onset of action is approximately 1 hour.

Excretion

Approximately 80% is excreted in the feces and 10-15% in the urine as unchanged drug.

Half life

Elimination half-life ranges from 11 to 15 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed after oral administration; peak plasma concentrations (Tmax) are reached approximately 2-3 hours post-dose.

Metabolism

Minimally metabolized (approximately 5%) in the liver; primarily through CYP450 enzymes.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any component of the formulation.

Drug Interactions

Erythromycin and Ketoconazole

Concomitant administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to increase fexofenadine plasma levels. This is generally not associated with adverse events, but caution is advised.

Antacids (Aluminum and Magnesium containing)

Co-administration with aluminum or magnesium-containing antacids within 15 minutes can decrease fexofenadine absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove fexofenadine from blood.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether fexofenadine is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

36 months from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA

Patent Status

Off-patent

Clinical Trials

Fexofenadine has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria.

Lab Monitoring

No specific routine laboratory monitoring is generally required.

Doctor Notes

Advise patients to avoid concurrent use of fruit juices.
Consider dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment.

Patient Guidelines

Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Avoid taking with fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple).
Inform your doctor or pharmacist 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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Driving Precautions

While Histafen is generally non-sedating, individual responses can vary. Patients should assess their response to the drug before driving or operating machinery.