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Drug Uses
Allegra D is administered for the treatment of symptoms commonly associated with hay fever, in adults, and also in children aged twelve and above. It is an antihistamine drug which can reduce the chemicals responsible for producing symptoms like a runny nose, watering eyes, sneezing fits, and itching, as well as other indications of an allergy or the common cold. It also serves as a decongestant which shrinks the vessels in the nasal cavity, thereby easing a stuffy nose.
How to Take Allegra D
The advisable intake of the medication is one tablet, twice daily, both for children aged twelve and above and for adults. Allegra is best taken without food. For patients with limited renal function, the advisable starting dose is one tablet a day. You may take the medicine with water, but avoid crushing the extended-release pill, as well as chewing or breaking it before swallowing. Swallow it whole so that it can gradually release the medication into your body.
Drug Precautions
Avoid taking Allegra D if you are taking MAO inhibitors within the last fourteen days. The same is applicable if you have a respiratory disease such as asthma, difficulties with retention, diabetes, eye pressure problems like glaucoma, thyroid disorders, kidney or liver illness, an enlarged prostate, heart and heartbeat disorders, and a high blood pressure. Your dosage may require an adjustment, you may need special monitoring while under treatment, or you may be discouraged from taking the drug altogether if you experience any of these conditions.
Drug Interactions
Allegra D can interact with a variety of medications, including those for high blood pressure regulation; diuretics; drugs for the bladder or the urinary tract such as oxybutynin or tolterodine; medicines for treating irritable bowel syndrome; beta-blockers like atenolol, carteolol, timolol, metoprolol, sotalol, and propranolol; aspirin and salicylates; and an antidepressant like amitriptyline and imipramine. If you are currently taking such medication, you may not be allowed to take Allegra D without a dosage adjustment or special test.
Side Effects
Queasiness, insomnia, an upset stomach, migraines, or symptoms indicative of a cold may be experienced. In such cases, immediately call for medical help. The same is applicable if you feel dizzy, acquire a rapid heartbeat or fever, or experience mood swings as a result of taking Allegra D. Symptoms which need urgent medical attention include fainting and an irregular heart rate. And although drowsiness is unlikely to occur in normal doses, try to avoid activities which require you to be alert.
Missed Dose
Do take a missed dose immediately after you are reminded of it. Ensure though that the next scheduled dose is not due for some time. Otherwise, skip this dose and wait for the next one.
Overdose
In excessive doses, the medication may cause giddiness, tachycardia, heart palpitations, and restlessness, among others. A serious overdose may involve cardiac arrhythmias, psychosis, body system failure, and coma.
Storage
Keep Allegra D in controlled temperatures of 20-25C, away from areas of extreme temperature and moisture.
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