allegra 180mg tablet - Fexofenadine (180mg) medicine

Allegra 180mg Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety

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🏭 Sanofi India Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Dark urine or severe abdominal pain
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as a widespread rash or hives

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is allegra 180mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a non-sedating antihistamine used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic hives. It works by blocking histamine, providing relief from sneezing, runny nose, and itching for up to 24 hours.

  • Generic Name: Fexofenadine
  • Manufacturer: Sanofi India Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 allegra 180mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी से होने वाले लक्षणों जैसे छींक आना, नाक बहना, आंखों में खुजली और पानी आना, और त्वचा पर पित्ती उठना आदि के इलाज में इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह मौसमी एलर्जी और पुरानी पित्ती के लिए प्रभावी है। यह दवा हिस्टामिन नामक पदार्थ को रोककर काम करती है, जिससे एलर्जी के लक्षण कम होते हैं। यह दवा आमतौर पर दिन में एक बार ली जाती है और इससे नींद कम आती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, नींद आना, चक्कर आना, जी मिचलाना और महिलाओं में मासिक धर्म के दर्द शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और अपने आप ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन दिल की धड़कन तेज होना, गंभीर एलर्जी या लीवर की समस्या हो सकती है। अगर कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपनी मर्जी से ज्यादा मात्रा में न लें। इस दवा के साथ अंगूर का जूस न पिएं, क्योंकि इससे दवा का असर बढ़ सकता है। अगर आपको किडनी की बीमारी है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं, क्योंकि आपको कम मात्रा की जरूरत हो सकती है। इस दवा से कुछ लोगों को नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए जब तक आपको इसका असर पता न चले, गाड़ी न चलाएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 allegra 180mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Seasonal allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and nasal itching caused by pollen and other outdoor allergens.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Chronic idiopathic urticaria","description":"Reduces itching and the number of hives in people with chronic hives without a known cause.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Perennial allergic rhinitis","description":"Helps control year-round allergy symptoms triggered by indoor allergens such as dust mites and pet dander.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Itching due to other skin conditions","description":"Sometimes used to relieve itching associated with eczema or other skin allergies, but this is not a primary approved use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"May help reduce eye itching and redness in some people with allergic eye symptoms.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Chronic idiopathic urticaria, Perennial allergic rhinitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Fexofenadine
Brand NameAllegra
ManufacturerSanofi India Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassH1 Antihistaminics (second Generation)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
2
If you have kidney disease, your doctor may prescribe a lower dose; do not adjust the dose yourself.
3
Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine, as it can reduce its absorption.
4
This medicine is less likely to cause drowsiness, but avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
5
Do not use this medicine for emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions; seek immediate medical help.
6
If your allergy symptoms do not improve within a few days, consult your doctor for further evaluation.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Sneezing and runny nose
This medicine is commonly prescribed for allergic rhinitis.
Likely Use
Itchy, watery eyes
This medicine helps relieve eye allergy symptoms.
Likely Use
Hives and skin itching
This medicine is used for chronic idiopathic urticaria.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
This medicine is not for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. It reaches peak levels in the blood within 1 to 3 hours after taking a tablet.
DistributionThis medicine is distributed throughout the body. It does not cross the blood-brain barrier significantly, which explains its low sedative effect.
Protein BindingThis medicine is approximately 60% to 70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismThis medicine undergoes minimal metabolism in the liver. It is primarily excreted unchanged in the bile and urine.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 14 to 16 hours.
ExcretionThis medicine is mainly excreted in the feces via bile, with a smaller amount excreted in the urine unchanged.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 30% to 40%.
Onset of ActionThis medicine usually starts to relieve symptoms within 1 hour after taking a dose.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration is reached about 1 to 3 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe effects of this medicine last for about 24 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine works by selectively blocking histamine H1 receptors in the body. Histamine is a chemical released during allergic reactions, and it causes symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. By blocking these receptors, this medicine prevents histamine from causing these symptoms. It is a second-generation antihistamine, which means it is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to older antihistamines.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine release: During an allergic reaction, immune cells release histamine into the bloodstream and tissues.
2
H1 receptor binding: This medicine binds to histamine H1 receptors on cells in the nose, eyes, skin, and blood vessels.
3
Blocking histamine effects: By occupying the receptor, this medicine prevents histamine from attaching and triggering allergy symptoms.
4
Symptom relief: As a result, sneezing, itching, runny nose, and hives are reduced.

💡 How to Take allegra 180mg tablet

Strength: This medicine is available as an immediate-release tablet containing 180 mg of fexofenadine.

1Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water.
2You can take it with or without food, but it is best to take it consistently.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it.
4Take it at the same time each day to help you remember.
5If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 180 mg taken once daily for seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. For children aged 12 years and older, the dose is the same as adults. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosageFor children aged 12 years and older, the dose is 180 mg once daily. For children aged 6 to 11 years, the dose is 30 mg twice daily. For children aged 2 to 5 years, the dose is 15 mg twice daily. Pediatric dosing should be determined by a pediatrician based on the child's weight and condition.
Elderly DosageElderly patients usually take the same dose as adults. However, because kidney function may decline with age, your doctor may adjust the dose if needed. Always follow your doctor's advice.
Renal ImpairmentFor adults with mild to moderate kidney impairment, the starting dose is 60 mg once daily. For severe kidney impairment, the dose may need to be further reduced. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your kidney function.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is needed for people with liver problems. However, consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose for adults and children 12 years and older is 180 mg once daily. Do not exceed this dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With or without food
Can be taken with or without food
Food does not significantly affect the absorption of this medicine.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid
Grapefruit juice can reduce the absorption of this medicine.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with your regular schedule.
📌 More than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
💡 Do not double the dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of allegra 180mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If it persists or is severe, consult your doctor.
Drowsiness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Consult your doctor if it continues.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Get up slowly from sitting or lying positions. Consult your doctor if it worsens.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Consult your doctor if it persists.
Menstrual pain (Common (5-10%))
Use a heating pad and over-the-counter pain relief if needed. Consult your doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Fast or irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice palpitations or a racing heart.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash.
Liver problems (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Insomnia
Practice good sleep hygiene. Consult your doctor if it persists.
Nervousness
Try relaxation techniques. Consult your doctor if it interferes with daily activities.
Dry mouth
Drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum. Consult your doctor if it continues.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Ketoconazole Major
Erythromycin Major
Antacids (aluminum/magnesium) Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Alcohol Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Ketoconazole
  • Erythromycin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
  • Rifampicin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the drowsiness and dizziness caused by this medicine. It is best to avoid or limit alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Allergy to fexofenadine or any other ingredient in this medicine"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to fexofenadine or any of its ingredients.","Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, as you may need a lower dose.","Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.","This medicine may cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not use this medicine to treat anaphylaxis or other emergency allergic reactions.","Keep this medicine out of the reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

💊 Overdose Management

If you take too much of this medicine, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and fast heartbeat. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal if taken soon after overdose.

⏰ Missed Dose

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 schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine, as it may increase the amount of medicine in your blood. If you have kidney disease, tell your doctor before taking this medicine, as you may need a lower dose. This medicine may cause drowsiness in some people; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not use this medicine to treat anaphylaxis or other emergency allergic reactions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients can take this medicine, but because kidney function may decline with age, your doctor may adjust the dose. Monitor for dizziness and drowsiness, and take precautions to prevent falls.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine is generally safe to continue after surgery. However, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking it. If you are having surgery, follow your doctor's instructions regarding when to take your medications.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine does not typically interfere with dental procedures. However, inform your dentist that you are taking it, especially if you are undergoing oral surgery or procedures that may cause bleeding.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Identify and avoid allergens that trigger your symptoms, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
🥗
Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons and use air conditioning if possible.
😴
Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your home to reduce airborne allergens.
💧
Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to remove pollen.
🧘
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support your immune system.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to help your body cope with allergies.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine is unlikely to affect your ability to exercise. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid strenuous activities until you know how the medicine affects you.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts to help reduce inflammation.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid foods that you are allergic to.
Limit processed foods and added sugars.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine is non-sedating, so it is unlikely to affect your work or daily activities. However, some people may experience mild drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your condition worsens, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will advise you on whether to continue, adjust the dose, or stop the medicine.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe and well-tolerated. There is no evidence of serious long-term side effects with continued use. However, regular monitoring of kidney function may be advised for people with kidney disease. If you have been taking this medicine for a long time, periodic review with your doctor is recommended to ensure it remains appropriate for your condition.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Allergen avoidance

Reducing exposure to allergens can help minimize symptoms and reduce the need for medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Nasal saline irrigation

Rinsing the nasal passages with saline solution can help relieve nasal congestion and allergy symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Immunotherapy

Allergy shots or sublingual tablets can desensitize your immune system to specific allergens over time.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. You can receive vaccinations while taking this medicine. However, if you are scheduled for allergy testing, inform your doctor, as antihistamines may interfere with skin test results.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in the original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture

❌ DON'T

Do not store in the bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or moisture. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking your dose at the same interval as prescribed; consult your doctor if you need to adjust the timing. Keep enough supply for your entire trip and carry it in your hand luggage.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergic rhinitis
She started taking this medicine as prescribed by her doctor. Within a few days, her sneezing and runny nose significantly improved, and she could enjoy outdoor activities without constant discomfort. She noted that taking it at the same time each morning helped her remember.
💡 Lesson: Consistent daily use provides the best symptom control for seasonal allergies.
👤 A 50-year-old man with chronic idiopathic urticaria
He had been suffering from recurring hives for months. His doctor prescribed this medicine, and after a week, the itching and hives reduced dramatically. He experienced mild drowsiness initially, which went away after a few days.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can effectively control chronic hives, and side effects often diminish with continued use.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts to relieve symptoms within 1 hour after taking a dose.

Q: Can I take this medicine every day?

A: Yes, this medicine is generally safe for daily use as prescribed by your doctor for chronic conditions like allergic rhinitis or chronic urticaria.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: This medicine is considered safe during pregnancy when taken as directed by a doctor. However, consult your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by this medicine. It is best to avoid or limit alcohol while taking it.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: 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 schedule. Do not double the dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for allegra 180mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine causes drowsiness.
    Fact: This medicine is a non-sedating antihistamine and is much less likely to cause drowsiness than older antihistamines.
  • Myth: This medicine can be used for emergency allergic reactions.
    Fact: This medicine is not for emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical help for anaphylaxis.
  • Myth: You can take this medicine with grapefruit juice.
    Fact: Grapefruit juice can reduce the absorption of this medicine. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking it.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Fexofenadine 180 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Allegra 180 mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Fexofenadine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","duration":"24 hours","common_uses":"Allergic rhinitis, chronic urticaria"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Moderate","duration":"24 hours","common_uses":"Allergic rhinitis, chronic urticaria"},{"medicine":"Loratadine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","duration":"24 hours","common_uses":"Allergic rhinitis, chronic urticaria"}]

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