Allegra – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Allegra is an antihistamine, that is, a drug that helps reduce the effects of naturally-occurring histamine in the body. It is used to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies/hay fever in both adults and children.

Additionally, the antihistamine is used to treat skin itching and hives that occur due to a condition called chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children.

Allegra’s generic name is fexofenadine. It’s also known by the brand name Allegra ODT.

Known health risks or side effects of Allegra

Allegra may cause common side effects such as:

• Coughing
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Pain
• Pain during menstrual periods
• Pain in the arms, legs, or back
• Vomiting

Patients will require immediate medical attention if they experience the following severe side effects of this drug:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Hives
• Hoarseness
• Itching
• Rash
• Swelling in the face, eyes, lips, tongue, throat, hands, lower legs, ankles, or feet

List of organs that might be affected by Allegra

An overdose of Allegra may cause complications such as dizziness, drowsiness, or dry mouth.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Allegra

The following foods or nutrients have similar effects to Allegra:

• Bromelain – A compound usually found in pineapples, bromelain is also available as a supplement. Bromelain can help treat respiratory distress and inflammation linked to allergies.
• Quercetin – Quercetin is an antioxidant found in apples, onions, and other fruits and vegetables. The antioxidant has antihistamine effects, and it can reduce inflammatory response in the airways. You can either take quercetin supplements or add more foods rich in the antioxidant to your diet.
• Stinging nettle – This herb acts as a natural antihistamine. Taking freeze-dried stinging nettle capsules can help ease itchy and watery eyes and a runny nose if you have allergic rhinitis.
• Vitamin C – Vitamin C is another natural antihistamine. Found in various fruits and vegetables, vitamin C is also available as a supplement. Increase your vitamin C intake if you’re looking for a safe and nontoxic alternative to over-the-counter antihistamines. The vitamin can offer relief if you have a stuffy nose or other symptoms of seasonal allergies.

Treatment and management options for the side effects of Allegra

The following foods or nutrients can help prevent the side effects associated with Allegra:

• Cherries – This fruit contains anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants that address pain by blocking inflammation and inhibiting pain enzymes.
• Herring, salmon, and sardines – Consuming fish low in mercury and rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help ease back pain. Omega-3s can help improve blood flow and minimize inflammation in the blood vessels and nerves.
• Ginger – Ginger can help ease muscle aches, and it is a natural aspirin and anti-inflammatory.

Where to learn more

• 5 Dangerous Food and Drug Combinations
• Allergy season: 8 powerful Herbal Treatments for Allergy Relief
• Grapefruit Calories, Carbs, and Nutrition Facts
• The Potential Risk Factors of Drinking Green Tea While On Certain Medications
• Stinging nettle promotes a wide range of health benefits

Summary

Allegra is an antihistamine that helps reduce the effects of naturally-occurring histamine in the body. It is used to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies/hay fever in both adults and children.

Allegra may cause common side effects such as a cough, diarrhea, dizziness, a headache, and pain (in the arms, legs, or back).

An overdose of Allegra may cause complications such as dizziness, drowsiness, or dry mouth.

Bromelain, quercetin, stinging nettle, and vitamin C have similar effects to Allegra.

Cherries; herring, salmon, and sardines; and ginger can help prevent the side effects associated with Allegra.

Sources include:

Drugs.com

EverydayHealth.com

Healthline.com

Prevention.com