People choose the best fexofenadine tablets by considering the dosage they need, deciding how often they’d like to take the medication, and determining whether they prefer a quick dissolve or a traditional pill that is swallowed with water. Consumers may also need to decide if they’d like to purchase fexofenadine in a combination pill with a decongestant like pseudoephedrine. Until 2011, most individuals didn’t have as much choice because the drug was only available with a prescription. Since this antihistamine has been approved for over-the-counter sales, most individuals will now make their own choices about the types of this medication they purchase and use.
Generally, the available strengths of fexofenadine tablets are 30, 60, and 180 milligrams (mg). For most allergy symptoms, individuals who are 12 years and older can take two 60 mg tablets daily, which means taking two pills 12 hours apart. Another option is to use one extended release 180 mg tablet a day. Children are given 30-60 mg per day, depending on their age or might also take an elixir form of the drug. Since use by children is less common, this medicine shouldn’t be given to them without a doctor’s guidance.
From a convenience perspective, many people prefer to use the 180 mg dosage. The medication has to be taken on an empty stomach, or at least two hours after a meal, and food can’t be consumed until an hour after a dose of the drug. Depending on a person’s schedule, it's sometimes difficult to time administration correctly. The once a day version may simply be easier to use, and it reduces the number of daily doses.
Fexofenadine tablets are also available in two different types. There is a quick dissolve pill that melts on the tongue after a few seconds, or this medication also comes in a standard tablet that is swallowed with water. Patients will have to decide which method works better for them. Another factor may be cost, as tablets that can be swallowed could be slightly less expensive.
Individuals may be able to find fexofenadine tablets that contain a decongestant, too. Most commonly the antihistamine is combined with pseudoephedrine in a formula that is likely to be labeled with a brand or generic name, followed by a D, e.g., fexofenadine-D. This may help with severe congestion, though many people with allergies have their symptoms alleviated without pseudoephedrine.
Additionally, the decongestant may cause too much dryness in the nasal passages. Alternately, it might interfere with sleep. Pseudoephedrine shouldn’t be used in the presence of a few medical conditions or when taking certain other drugs. It’s recommended that patients consult their doctors prior to using a decongestant formula.
Presently, though there are a few companies that manufacture generic fexofenadine tablets, over-the-counter generics are a little difficult to find. This means the drug price may be higher than expected. As more manufacturers produce fexofenadine, costs are likely to drop, bulk purchasing could be possible, and new types of fexofenadine tablets could be offered to consumers.
