Telfast
Generic Name
Fexofenadine Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
Sanofi
Country
France (original developer), manufactured globally
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| telfast 180 mg tablet | ৳ 13.00 | ৳ 130.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Telfast 180 mg is an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It is a non-drowsy formulation designed to reduce allergic reactions without causing significant sedation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: 180 mg once daily. Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: 180 mg once daily.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required for elderly patients with normal renal function.
Renal_impairment
For patients with impaired renal function, a starting dose of 60 mg once daily is recommended. (Note: 180 mg formulation might not be suitable for initial dosing in renal impairment; consult doctor.)
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with water, usually once a day. It can be taken with or without food, but avoid taking it with fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple) as they may reduce absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-blocker. It inhibits histamine release from mast cells and reduces the effects of histamine on H1 receptors, thereby alleviating allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rash.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour
Excretion
Primarily excreted in the feces (approximately 80%) and urine (approximately 11-12%) as unchanged drug.
Half life
Approximately 11-15 hours
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in approximately 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized (less than 5%) in the liver. Primarily excreted unchanged.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin or Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to increase fexofenadine plasma levels, but no corresponding increase in adverse effects was observed.
Aluminum and Magnesium-containing Antacids
Concomitant administration with aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids (e.g., Maalox) reduces the bioavailability of fexofenadine. Separate administration by approximately 2 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptoms like dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth may occur. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove fexofenadine from blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if fexofenadine is excreted in human milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin or Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to increase fexofenadine plasma levels, but no corresponding increase in adverse effects was observed.
Aluminum and Magnesium-containing Antacids
Concomitant administration with aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids (e.g., Maalox) reduces the bioavailability of fexofenadine. Separate administration by approximately 2 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptoms like dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth may occur. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis does not effectively remove fexofenadine from blood.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if fexofenadine is excreted in human milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from manufacturing date, depending on manufacturer.
Availability
Available in pharmacies worldwide
Approval Status
Approved (internationally)
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated fexofenadine's efficacy and safety for allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria. Studies consistently show its non-sedating profile compared to first-generation antihistamines.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine laboratory monitoring is generally not required during fexofenadine therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential interactions with fruit juices and certain antacids.
- Reinforce that this is a non-sedating antihistamine, but individual responses vary.
- Counsel on symptomatic relief rather than cure for chronic conditions.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not take more than the recommended dose.
- Avoid taking with fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple).
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
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
Fexofenadine is generally non-sedating. However, individuals may react differently. It is advisable to observe your response to the medication before driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid known allergens if possible.
- Maintain good indoor air quality.
- Stay hydrated.
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