🤧 Allegra-M Tablet – Say goodbye to sneezing and allergy symptoms!
Allegra-M Tablet
Product Introduction
Allegra-M Tablet is a combination medication containing two active ingredients: Montelukast (10mg) and Fexofenadine (120mg). This dual-action formulation is specifically designed to address multiple symptoms of allergic conditions by targeting different pathways in the body's allergic response system.
Montelukast belongs to the class of medications known as leukotriene receptor antagonists, which work by blocking the action of leukotrienes, chemicals that trigger inflammation in the airways and contribute to allergy symptoms. Fexofenadine, on the other hand, is a second-generation antihistamine that blocks the action of histamine, another key chemical mediator responsible for allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
Allegra-M Tablet offers a comprehensive approach to allergy management by combining these two mechanisms of action. This combination is particularly effective for patients suffering from allergic rhinitis (hay fever) accompanied by asthmatic symptoms or those who don't respond adequately to single-agent therapy.
The medication is typically prescribed for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and above. The once-daily dosing regimen enhances patient compliance compared to multiple medications taken separately. Allegra-M Tablet is designed to provide 24-hour relief from allergy symptoms, allowing patients to maintain normal daily activities without significant drowsiness that may occur with some older antihistamines.
Healthcare providers often recommend Allegra-M for seasonal allergic rhinitis, perennial allergic rhinitis, and allergic asthma. The tablet is usually taken with or without food, although absorption may be affected by certain foods and beverages.
While Allegra-M effectively manages allergy symptoms, it's important to note that it treats the symptoms rather than curing the underlying allergic condition. Regular monitoring and follow-up with healthcare providers are essential for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Key Composition & Ingredients
- Active Ingredients:
- Montelukast sodium equivalent to 10mg Montelukast
- Fexofenadine hydrochloride 120mg
- Inactive Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, pregelatinized starch, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol, and iron oxide colorants
Uses of Allegra-M Tablet
- Treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Management of perennial allergic rhinitis
- Relief from allergic rhinitis symptoms with asthmatic components
- Management of allergic conditions like urticaria (hives)
- Prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
Benefits of Allegra-M Tablet
- Provides dual mechanism relief from allergy symptoms
- Offers 24-hour symptom control with once-daily dosing
- Reduces nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching
- Decreases inflammation in airways
- Minimizes risk of asthma exacerbations in susceptible individuals
- Non-drowsy formula allows normal daily activities
- Improves quality of sleep by reducing nighttime symptoms
- Enhances overall quality of life during allergy seasons
How Allegra-M Tablet Works
Allegra-M works through two distinct mechanisms to provide comprehensive relief from allergy symptoms:
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Montelukast (10mg): Blocks leukotriene receptors, preventing leukotrienes from causing airway inflammation, mucus production, and bronchial constriction. This action helps reduce nasal congestion and prevents asthma symptoms.
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Fexofenadine (120mg): Selectively blocks H1 histamine receptors, preventing histamine from binding to these receptors and causing typical allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
How the Drug Works (Mechanism of Action)
Montelukast:
Montelukast is a selective leukotriene receptor antagonist that specifically binds to the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor CysLT1. By blocking the action of leukotrienes (LTD4, LTE4, and LTC4), it prevents their pro-inflammatory effects, including increased vascular permeability, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle contraction in the airways. This action helps reduce inflammation in both the upper and lower respiratory tract.
Fexofenadine:
Fexofenadine is a peripheral H1-receptor antagonist that competitively blocks histamine receptors, preventing histamine from activating these receptors. Unlike first-generation antihistamines, fexofenadine does not significantly cross the blood-brain barrier, resulting in minimal sedation. It effectively inhibits histamine-induced responses like vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation that cause typical allergy symptoms.
Dosage of Allegra-M Tablet
Daily Dose
- Adults and adolescents 12 years and older: One tablet once daily
- Children under 12 years: Not recommended
Missed Dose
- Take as soon as remembered unless it's almost time for the next dose
- Do not take double dose to make up for a missed dose
- Return to regular dosing schedule
Overdose
- Symptoms may include headache, drowsiness, thirst, and abdominal pain
- Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected
- Supportive care is typically provided as specific antidotes are not available
Mode of Action of Allegra-M Tablet
The dual mode of action provides comprehensive relief by:
- Blocking inflammatory mediators (leukotrienes) involved in allergic reactions
- Inhibiting histamine effects responsible for acute allergy symptoms
- Reducing both early and late-phase allergic responses
- Preventing airway remodeling associated with chronic allergies
How to Use Allegra-M Tablet
- Take one tablet daily at approximately the same time each day
- Can be taken with or without food
- Swallow whole with a glass of water
- Avoid taking with fruit juices (especially grapefruit) as they may decrease drug absorption
- Take at least 2 hours before or after antacids containing aluminum or magnesium hydroxide
Directions for Use
- Follow your doctor's prescription exactly
- Establish a consistent time for taking the medication
- For best results, take before exposure to known allergens
- Continue taking as prescribed even if symptoms improve
- Complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor
Side Effects of Allegra-M Tablet
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or weakness
- Mild nausea
- Upper respiratory tract infection symptoms
- Mild stomach pain
Serious Side Effects
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
- Behavior and mood changes (especially in children)
- Depression or agitation
- Hallucinations or confusion
- Palpitations
- Liver function abnormalities
Side Effects & How to Manage Them
- Headache: Rest in a quiet, dark room; use approved pain relievers if necessary
- Dizziness: Avoid sudden position changes; rise slowly from sitting or lying position
- Dry Mouth: Sip water frequently; use sugar-free gum or lozenges
- Fatigue: Ensure adequate rest; take the medication at bedtime if drowsiness occurs
- Nausea: Take with food; eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Behavioral Changes: Report to healthcare provider immediately
- Allergic Reactions: Discontinue and seek immediate medical attention
Safety Advice for Allegra-M Tablet
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness.
Pregnancy
Category B. Use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh potential risks. Consult your doctor.
Breast Feeding
Use caution as both components may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor.
Driving
May cause mild dizziness. Assess your response before driving.
Kidney
Use with caution in severe kidney impairment. Dose adjustment may be required.
Liver
Use with caution in liver disease. Monitor liver function and adjust dose if necessary.
Children
Not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Older Patients
Generally safe but may require dose adjustment due to age-related changes in kidney function.
Lactation
Use with caution during breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider.
Allergy
Do not take if allergic to montelukast, fexofenadine, or any component of the formulation.
Warnings & Precautions of Allegra-M Tablet
- Neuropsychiatric events (agitation, depression, suicidal thoughts) reported with montelukast
- Not for acute asthma attacks or status asthmaticus
- Phenylketonurics: Contains phenylalanine (if applicable to formulation)
- May cause hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis
- Caution in patients with history of liver disease
- Not a substitute for corticosteroids in corticosteroid-dependent patients
- Monitor for eosinophilic conditions including Churg-Strauss syndrome
Interactions with Allegra-M Tablet
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Rifampin: May decrease fexofenadine levels
- Erythromycin, ketoconazole: May increase fexofenadine levels
- Phenobarbital, phenytoin: May decrease montelukast levels
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers: May reduce effectiveness of montelukast
- Antacids containing aluminum and magnesium hydroxide: May decrease absorption if taken simultaneously
Drug-Food Interactions
- Grapefruit juice: May decrease absorption of fexofenadine
- Apple, orange, or grapefruit juice: May decrease bioavailability of fexofenadine
- High-fat meals: May affect absorption rate but not extent of absorption
Contraindications of Allegra-M Tablet
- Hypersensitivity to montelukast, fexofenadine, or any component of the formulation
- Acute asthma attacks (not for rescue therapy)
- Phenylketonuria (if applicable to formulation)
- Severe hepatic impairment
Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category
- FDA Pregnancy Category B
- Regular monitoring for neuropsychiatric events
- Periodic assessment of allergic symptom control
- Liver function tests for patients with pre-existing liver disease
- Monitor for signs of eosinophilic conditions
Diet & Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid known allergens
- Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
- Use air purifiers in living and sleeping areas
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water
- Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities during high pollen seasons
- Stay hydrated to help thin mucus secretions
- Consider using saline nasal rinses to remove allergens
- Maintain indoor humidity between 40-50%
Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine
Doctors prescribe Allegra-M because it:
- Offers dual mechanism of action for comprehensive symptom relief
- Provides non-sedating antihistamine benefits
- Helps control symptoms that may not respond to single-agent therapy
- Maintains effectiveness for 24 hours with once-daily dosing
- Has minimal drug interactions compared to some other antihistamines
- Provides both upper and lower respiratory tract symptom relief
Substitutes of Allegra-M Tablet & Alternative Medicines
-
Similar combination products:
- Montair-FX (Montelukast + Fexofenadine)
- Montek-FX (Montelukast + Fexofenadine)
- Fexokast (Montelukast + Fexofenadine)
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Alternative combinations:
- Montelukast + Levocetirizine
- Montelukast + Desloratadine
- Montelukast + Cetirizine
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Single-agent alternatives:
- Fexofenadine alone (Allegra)
- Montelukast alone (Singulair)
- Other antihistamines (Cetirizine, Loratadine)
Storage Guidelines
- Store at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
- Protect from light and moisture
- Keep in original container with lid tightly closed
- Keep out of reach of children
- Do not store in bathroom medicine cabinets
- Discard any unused medication after expiration date
User Feedback & Patient Concerns
Most patients report significant improvement in allergy symptoms within 1-3 days of starting Allegra-M. Common feedback includes appreciation for the non-drowsy formulation and once-daily convenience. Some patients report mild headache or dry mouth that typically resolves with continued use. Concerns generally involve cost, as combination medications may be more expensive than individual components.
Quick Tips for Allegra-M Tablet
- Take at the same time each day for consistent blood levels
- Best taken in the evening for seasonal allergies
- Avoid taking with fruit juices
- Allow at least 2 hours between antacids and Allegra-M
- Continue regular use during allergy season rather than as-needed
- Report any mood changes or unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly
- Keep a symptom diary to track effectiveness
Fact Box
- Chemical Class: Leukotriene receptor antagonist + Piperidine antihistamine
- Habit Forming: No
- Therapeutic Class: Anti-allergic combination
- Action Class: Leukotriene receptor antagonist + H1-antihistamine
Useful Diagnostic Tests
- Allergy skin testing
- Blood tests for specific IgE antibodies
- Complete blood count with differential
- Pulmonary function tests (if asthma is suspected)
- Liver function tests (for long-term use)
- Nasal smear for eosinophils
More Information & References
For more detailed information, consult healthcare professionals and refer to resources provided by allergist associations, FDA medication guides, and pharmaceutical references such as the Physician's Desk Reference.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, and medication guidance tailored to your specific condition.
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