What is the most important information I should know about Allegra1?

Do not 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?

Allegra is an antihistamine. Antihistamines work against the naturally occurring chemical histamine in your body.

Allegra is used to prevent runny nose, sneezing, itching and watery eyes, and other allergic symptoms.

Allegra 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?

Do not take Allegra if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have any serious illness such as heart, kidney, or liver disease. You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have other illnesses.

Allegra is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Allegra will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is also not known whether Allegra passes into breast milk. Do not take Allegra without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Allegra is not approved for use by children younger than 6 years of age.

How should I take Allegra?

Take Allegra exactly as directed. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Allegra is usually taken twice a day, in the morning and the evening. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not take Allegra 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.

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 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. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of an Allegra overdose are not well known.

What should I avoid while taking Allegra?

Do not take Allegra 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.

What are the possible side effects of Allegra?

Stop taking Allegra and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Allergic reactions may occur very rarely, and other serious side effects are not likely to occur.

Some less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Allegra and talk to your doctor if you experience nausea or an upset stomach.

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?

Do not take Allegra 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.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Allegra. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking other medications, including herbal products.