Steven M Smith1, John G Gums. 1. University of Florida, Colleges of Pharmacy and Medicine, Departments of Pharmacotherapy & Translational Research and Community Health & Family Medicine, Gainesville, FL 32610-0486, USA. ssmithm@ufl.edu
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Fexofenadine is one of several second-generation H(1)-antihistamines approved for the treatment of various allergic disorders; however, it shows numerous unique properties that make it an optimal choice for many patients. OBJECTIVE: To review the pharmacology, efficacy and safety of fexofenadine and the attributes differentiating it from other H(1)-antihistamines. METHODS: We performed a literature search in PubMed/MEDLINE (1966 - March 2009) using the keywords fexofenadine, antihistamine, allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria. We also reviewed data provided by the manufacturer in addition to reports from various governmental agencies. RESULTS/ CONCLUSIONS: Fexofenadine is devoid of sedative and anticholinergic effects and may offer equivalent or greater efficacy in treating allergic disorders compared with other currently available second-generation H(1)-antihistamines. In addition, fexofenadine may offer cost savings over other selected H(1)-antihistamines owing to its recent availability in generic form in the US.
BACKGROUND:Fexofenadine is one of several second-generation H(1)-antihistamines approved for the treatment of various allergic disorders; however, it shows numerous unique properties that make it an optimal choice for many patients. OBJECTIVE: To review the pharmacology, efficacy and safety of fexofenadine and the attributes differentiating it from other H(1)-antihistamines. METHODS: We performed a literature search in PubMed/MEDLINE (1966 - March 2009) using the keywords fexofenadine, antihistamine, allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria. We also reviewed data provided by the manufacturer in addition to reports from various governmental agencies. RESULTS/ CONCLUSIONS:Fexofenadine is devoid of sedative and anticholinergic effects and may offer equivalent or greater efficacy in treating allergic disorders compared with other currently available second-generation H(1)-antihistamines. In addition, fexofenadine may offer cost savings over other selected H(1)-antihistamines owing to its recent availability in generic form in the US.