Vifas
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 |
|---|---|---|
| vifas 120 mg tablet | ৳ 9.00 | ৳ 90.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Vifas 120 mg tablet contains Fexofenadine Hydrochloride, a non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat, or watery eyes, and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: 120 mg once daily or 60 mg twice daily. For Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: 180 mg once daily.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required in elderly patients with normal renal function. Use with caution in elderly patients with impaired renal function.
Renal_impairment
For adults with impaired renal function, the recommended starting dose is 60 mg once daily for seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
How to Take
Take orally with water. Do not take with fruit juices (e.g., grapefruit, orange, apple) as they may reduce the effectiveness of the medicine. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. It does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, resulting in minimal sedative effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in feces (approximately 80%) and urine (approximately 11%).
Half life
Approximately 11-15 hours
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved in approximately 2-3 hours. Bioavailability is approximately 33%. Food decreases both the extent and rate of absorption.
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.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin or Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to increase fexofenadine plasma concentrations. However, no increase in adverse events was reported.
Antacids (containing aluminum and magnesium)
Concomitant use with antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxides should be avoided, as they can decrease the absorption of fexofenadine. Separate administration by approximately 2 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Management should be symptomatic and supportive, including general measures to remove unabsorbed drug and monitor vital signs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. 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 administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Erythromycin or Ketoconazole
Co-administration with erythromycin or ketoconazole has been shown to increase fexofenadine plasma concentrations. However, no increase in adverse events was reported.
Antacids (containing aluminum and magnesium)
Concomitant use with antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxides should be avoided, as they can decrease the absorption of fexofenadine. Separate administration by approximately 2 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Management should be symptomatic and supportive, including general measures to remove unabsorbed drug and monitor vital signs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. 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 administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
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, including children and adults. Studies confirm its non-sedating profile.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine laboratory monitoring is typically required for Fexofenadine. However, if renal impairment is suspected, renal function tests may be appropriate.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize avoiding fruit juices due to potential reduction in bioavailability.
- Advise patients about potential drug interactions, especially with antacids, and proper spacing of doses.
- Inform patients that while generally non-sedating, individual responses can vary, and caution should be exercised with activities requiring mental alertness.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not take this medicine with fruit juices (e.g., grapefruit, orange, apple) as they can reduce its effectiveness.
- Avoid taking antacids containing aluminum and magnesium within 2 hours of taking Vifas 120 mg tablet.
- Report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor.
- If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating machinery.
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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Although Fexofenadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine, some individuals may still experience drowsiness or dizziness. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid exposure to known allergens that trigger your symptoms.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate hydration and sleep.
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