Indications

Fenofex (Fexofenadine) is a non-sedating antihistamine indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with:

• Seasonal and Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: Effectively treats sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itching of the nose, palate, and throat in adults and children 12 years and older.
• Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (Hives): Significantly reduces the number of hives and itching in adults and children 12 years and older.

Pharmacology

Fexofenadine is a selective H1 histamine receptor inverse agonist. It works by binding to and stabilizing the inactive form of the H1 receptor, which prevents histamine from binding and causing allergic symptoms like itching and rhinorrhea. Fexofenadine does not cross the blood-brain barrier, which means it is unlikely to cause significant central nervous system effects such as sedation.

Dosage & Administration

• Allergic Rhinitis & Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria:
  • Adults & Children ≥ 12 years: 60 mg twice daily, or 120 mg or 180 mg once daily. For patients with impaired renal function, the recommended dose is 60 mg once daily.
  • Children 6-11 years: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily. With impaired renal function, the dose is 30 mg once daily.
  • Children 2-11 years (Suspension): 30 mg (5 ml) twice daily.
  • Children 6 months to < 2 years (Suspension): 15 mg (2.5 ml) twice daily. With impaired renal function, the dose is 15 mg once daily.

Interaction

• Erythromycin or Ketoconazole: Co-administration can increase the plasma level of fexofenadine by 2-3 times.
• Antacids: The use of antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide 15 minutes before Fenofex can reduce its bioavailability. It is advisable to wait 2 hours between doses.
• Omeprazole: No interaction has been observed.

Contraindications

Fenofex is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any of its ingredients.

Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Post-marketing surveillance has also reported hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., angioedema), insomnia, nervousness, tachycardia, palpitations, diarrhea, rash, and itching.

Pregnancy & Lactation

There is limited data on the use of fexofenadine in pregnant women. It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Fexofenadine is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, as it can cross into breast milk.

Precautions & Warnings

• Use with caution in elderly patients and those with renal or hepatic impairment.
• Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease should be cautious, as antihistamines can be associated with tachycardia and palpitations.
• Fenofex is unlikely to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery, but individuals should assess their own response before performing complex tasks.

Overdose Effects

Overdose may cause dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and dry mouth. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis is not an effective way to remove the drug from the blood.

Therapeutic Class

Fenofex is a Non-sedating antihistamine.

Storage Conditions

Keep in a dry place, away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.