How to Take Allegra: Side Effects, Dosage
Learn how to take Allegra as directed: dosage guidelines, common side effects, interactions, and precautions for allergy relief.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Allegra
How to Take Allegra (fexofenadine)
The following steps reflect standard OTC label instructions for Allegra (fexofenadine):
- Per OTC labeling, adults and teens 12+: The usual dose is 180 mg once daily, or 60 mg twice daily. Take with a full glass of water.
- Per OTC labeling, children 6–11 years: Give 30 mg twice daily. This may be a tablet or a measured dose of children's liquid.
- Per OTC labeling, children 2–5 years: Use the liquid form. The typical dose is 30 mg once daily or 15 mg twice daily. Use the medication's measuring device for accuracy.
- Per OTC labeling, infants 6–23 months: Only use the liquid. Usual dose is 15 mg once daily.
- Per OTC labeling, with or without food: You may take Allegra on an empty stomach or with a light meal. Avoid very fatty meals, which can slow absorption.
- Per OTC labeling, avoid fruit juice close to dosing: Try not to take Allegra with orange, grapefruit, or apple juice. These juices can reduce how well the medicine is absorbed. Water is best.
- Swallow tablets whole: Do not crush or chew. If using the liquid, shake the bottle before measuring the dose.
- Per OTC labeling, if you forget a dose: Take it when you remember unless it's almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not double up.
- Timing: Many people prefer taking it in the morning, but any consistent time is fine.
Warnings Before Taking Allegra
Per OTC labeling, avoid taking with fruit juices (orange, apple, grapefruit), which can reduce absorption.
Per OTC labeling, use caution if you have kidney disease; you may need a lower dose.
Per OTC labeling, check ingredients if you have allergies to dyes or inactive components.
Per OTC labeling, tell your doctor about all medicines you use to avoid interaction risks.
Allegra Side Effects
Rare
Mild
Drowsiness or Fatigue
Per OTC labeling, some people feel mildly tired after taking Allegra. Fexofenadine is considered a low-sedating antihistamine compared with older antihistamines.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Common
Mild
Headache
Per OTC labeling, headache is a commonly reported side effect of fexofenadine.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Dry Mouth
Per OTC labeling, you may notice a dry feeling in the mouth. Drinking water regularly may help.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–4 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Nausea
Per OTC labeling, occasionally Allegra can cause an unsettled stomach.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30 minutes–2 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Dizziness
Per OTC labeling, a small number of people feel lightly off-balance.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30 minutes–1 hour
Rare
Mild
Back or Muscle Pain
Per OTC labeling, some people experience minor back or muscle aches while taking Allegra.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
<12 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Allegra
If You Forgot to Take Allegra
If you miss a dose of Allegra, take it as soon as you remember. If it's already close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and simply return to your usual routine.
Do not double up to make up for a forgotten dose — that won't improve your relief and may increase the chance of feeling uncomfortable. Per OTC labeling, doses should be taken as directed on the label schedule. If you're using it daily for allergies, it's perfectly okay to resume your normal time the following day.
If missed doses are happening often, it may help to take it at the same time each day or pair it with a daily habit you already do.
What If You Took Too Much Allegra
What If You Took Too Much Allegra?
If more than the labeled amount was used, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. For children or if the product was swallowed, seek urgent medical care immediately.
- Do not use additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or unusual drowsiness occur, seek emergency medical care.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Allegra Cost
Cost of Allegra With Insurance
With many U.S. insurance plans, the cost of prescription-strength fexofenadine varies. Many plans may place it on a preferred tier.
- Some plans encourage using the over-the-counter version, which may be an alternative worth checking
Prices vary by pharmacy and plan.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
How Much Does Allegra Cost without Insurance
How Much Does Allegra Cost Without Insurance?
Without insurance, the price of Allegra can vary based on the form and where you buy it.
- Allegra 24-hour tablets (30 count)
- Allegra 12-hour tablets (30 count)
- Allegra liquid or children's formulations
Prices at large retailers or online stores often fall at the lower end of available ranges.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
