Allegra vs Lunesta: side-by-side comparison
Allegra (Allergy and Antihistamines) and Lunesta (Sleep Aids and Hypnotics) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Allegra | Lunesta |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Fexofenadine | Eszopiclone |
| Manufacturer | Sanofi | Sunovion |
| Class | Allergy and Antihistamines | Sleep Aids and Hypnotics |
| Strengths | 30mg, 60mg, 120mg, 180mg | 1mg, 2mg, 3mg |
| Forms | tablet, oral suspension, orodispersible tablet | tablet |
What's the same
Allegra and Lunesta are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Allegra belongs to Allergy and Antihistamines while Lunesta belongs to Sleep Aids and Hypnotics. Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Allegra: Fexofenadine selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors, antagonising the effects of histamine on vasodilation, capillary permeability, sensory nerve endings and smooth muscle. Lunesta: Eszopiclone is a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA-A receptor at a site close to the benzodiazepine binding site.
When Allegra is preferred
Allegra is approved in adults and children for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
When Lunesta is preferred
Lunesta is approved in adults for the treatment of insomnia, including difficulty falling asleep and difficulty maintaining sleep.
Frequently asked questions
Is Allegra or Lunesta better? ▾
Allegra and Lunesta are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Allegra to Lunesta? ▾
Switching between Allegra and Lunesta is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Allegra and Lunesta have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Allegra comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.