|
|
|
Allegra |
|
|
What is Allegra and why is it prescribed? Allegra relieves the itchy, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, red, watery eyes that come with hay fever. Its effect begins in 1 hour and lasts 12 hours, peaking around the second or third hour. Allegra is one of the new type of antihistamines that rarely cause drowsiness. In addition to the antihistamine in Allegra, Allegra-D also contains the nasal decongestant pseudoephedrine. Seldane, an antihistamine related to Allegra, has been implicated in dangerous interactions with the common antibiotic erythromycin, the antifungal medication ketoconazole (Nizoral), and several similar drugs. Allegra poses no such risks. It is also safe for people with liver disease. How should you take Allegra? Follow your doctors directions for taking Allegra. Take Allegra and Allegra-D only as prescribed. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Allegra at room temperature. Protect blister packs from moisture. Are there any Allegra side effects? Allegra side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Allegra side effects may include colds or flu, drowsiness, fatigue, indigestion, menstrual problems, and nausea. Allegra-D side effects may include abdominal pain, agitation, anxiety, back pain, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, heart palpitations, indigestion, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, respiratory tract infection, and throat irritation. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Allegra? If Allegra is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Check with your doctor before combining Allegra with erythromycin (E.E.S., Ery-Tab, PCE) or ketoconazole (Nizoral). These drugs may increase Allegra's effects. Allegra-D should never be taken within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as the antidepressants Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate. Also check with your doctor before combining it with Mecamylamine (Inversine), Methyldopa (Aldomet), or Reserpine (Diupress, Hydropres). You should also avoid Allegra-D if you have a pacemaker and take digoxin (Lanoxin). And you should not combine it with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants. Are there any special warnings about Allegra? Use Allegra-D with caution if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, increased pressure in the eyes, prostate problems, or hyperthyroidism. Stop using it and check with your doctor if it causes nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. |
|
|
Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
|
|
Copyright 2008 MyMedications.net. All rights reserved. |
|
