Allegra D

What is the most important information I should know about Allegra D?

• Take Allegra D on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
• Never take more of this medication than is directed by your doctor. If your symptoms are not being adequately treated, talk to your doctor.
  

What is Allegra D?

• Allegra D is an antihistamine. It works against the naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body. Allegra D prevents sneezing; runny nose; itching, watery eyes; and other allergic symptoms.
• Allegra D is a decongestant. It constricts (shrinks) blood vessels (veins and arteries). By decreasing blood flow, it decreases congestion
• Allegra D is used to relieve symptoms of allergic conditions.
• Allegra D may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
  

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Allegra D?

• Do not take Allegra D if you have
  · taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days;
  · asthma or another lung disease;
  · diabetes;
  · thyroid problems;
  · glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye;
  · urinary retention or an enlarged prostate;
  · kidney or liver disease; or
  · heart disease, high blood pressure, or an irregular heartbeat.
• You may not be able to take Allegra D, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Allegra D is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Allegra D without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known if Allegra D passes into breast milk. Do not take Allegra D without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
• Allegra D is not approved for use by children younger than 12 years of age.
  

How should I take Allegra D?

• Take Allegra D exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Allegra D is usually taken twice a day, in the morning and the evening. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• Take Allegra D on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.
• Never take more of this medication than is directed by your doctor. If your symptoms are not being adequately treated, talk to your doctor.
• Store Allegra D at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
  

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Keep doses at least 12 hours apart. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
  

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a Allegra D overdose include headache, drowsiness, an irregular heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, sweating, increased thirst, weakness, and restlessness.
  

What should I avoid while taking Allegra D?

• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Allegra D may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities.
• Do not take Allegra D close to a dose of an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of Allegra D.
  

What are the possible side effects of Allegra D?

• Serious side effects are unlikely to occur with the use of Allegra D. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention:
  · an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
  · an irregular heartbeat; or
  · seizures.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Allegra D and talk to your doctor if you experience
  · dizziness;
  · headache;
  · insomnia;
  · nervousness;
  · nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort;
  · dry mouth;
  · dry skin or itchiness; or
  · discoloration of urine.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
  

What other drugs will affect Allegra D?

• Do not take Allegra D if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days.
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
  · a heart medication such as digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps), reserpine (Serpasil), or methyldopa (Aldomet); or
  · caffeine, amphetamines, decongestants, or diet pills.
• You may not be able to take Allegra D, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Do not take Allegra D close to a dose of an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of Allegra D.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Allegra D. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
  

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has additional information about Allegra D written for health professionals that you may read.