Fexofenadine

Antihistamine (non-drowsy)
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Fexofenadine is a antihistamine (non-drowsy) found in 15 medicines sold in India, such as Allegra 120, Allegra 180, Histafree-180. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Relieves seasonal allergies (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes) and hives.

How it works

A non-drowsy antihistamine that does not enter the brain much, so it rarely causes sleepiness.

How to take it

Adults: 120 mg once a day for hay fever, 180 mg for hives. Take with water, not fruit juice, and not within 2 hours of an antacid.

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness

Get medical help straight away if

Allergic reaction

Be careful

Do not take with fruit juices or antacids close together; they reduce its effect.

Other medicines and interactions

Fruit juices (apple, orange, grapefruit) and aluminium or magnesium antacids reduce how much is absorbed.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask a doctor; cetirizine or loratadine are more often chosen in pregnancy. Considered acceptable while breastfeeding.

Brands of Fexofenadine (13)

Allegra 120Allegra 180Altiva 120Fex-180Fexoder-120Fexofen-120Fexova 120Fexova 180Fexy 120Fexy 180Histafree-120Histafree-180Odifex 120

Combination medicines that contain Fexofenadine (2)

Allegra-MMontair FX

Common questions

What is Fexofenadine used for?

Relieves seasonal allergies (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes) and hives.

How does Fexofenadine work?

A non-drowsy antihistamine that does not enter the brain much, so it rarely causes sleepiness.

How should I take Fexofenadine?

Adults: 120 mg once a day for hay fever, 180 mg for hives. Take with water, not fruit juice, and not within 2 hours of an antacid.

What are the side effects of Fexofenadine?

Common: Headache, nausea, dizziness. Get help straight away for: Allergic reaction.

Does Fexofenadine interact with other medicines?

Fruit juices (apple, orange, grapefruit) and aluminium or magnesium antacids reduce how much is absorbed.

Is Fexofenadine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask a doctor; cetirizine or loratadine are more often chosen in pregnancy. Considered acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Fexofenadine need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Fexofenadine?

Allegra 120, Allegra 180, Allegra-M, Altiva 120, Fex-180, Fexoder-120, Fexofen-120, Fexova 120, Fexova 180, Fexy 120, Fexy 180, Histafree-120, Histafree-180, Montair FX, Odifex 120.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.