Terfenadine Description

Generic Name : TERFENADINE

Pronunciation : (ter fen' a deen)

Trade Name(s) : Trexyl, Terfed, Terin

Why it is prescribed: Terfenadine, an antihistamine, is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms including runny nose, sneezing, throat irritation, and red, irritated, itchy, and tearing eyes. It causes fewer side effects, particularly drowsiness, than other antihistamines.

When it is to be taken: Terfenadine is usually taken twice a day as needed. It should be taken only as needed to relieve symptoms. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. This drug starts to take effect one to three hours after you take a dose and keeps on working for 12 hours or more.

How it should be taken: Terfenadine comes in the form of tablets. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. Do not take more of it than instructed.

Special Instruction :

Side Effects :
1. Drowsiness; fatigue; headache; dizziness; nervousness; weakness; stomach upset; constipation or diarrhea; dry mouth, nose, throat, and lips; cough: sore throat; nosebleeds', skin rash. Contact your doctor if these effects persist or are severe.
2. Difficulty breathing. Stop taking the drug and contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions :
1. Alcoholic beverages can add to the drowsiness or dizziness caused by terfenadine.
2. Women who are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding should inform their doctors.
3. Before taking terfenadine, tell your doctor if you have asthma or lung disease, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate gland, heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid gland, stomach ulcers, or urinary tract blockage.
4. Before taking terfenadine, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription mediations you are taking, especially barbiturates; tranquilizers; sedatives; narcotics; medication for seizures, depression, or pain; medication to help you sleep; and other medication for allergies.
5. Before having surgery with a general anesthetic, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist in charge that you are taking terfenadine.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.
2. Store terfenadine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.