Allegra vs Plan B: side-by-side comparison
Allegra (Allergy and Antihistamines) and Plan B (Hormones and Birth Control) 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 | Plan B |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Fexofenadine | Levonorgestrel |
| Manufacturer | Sanofi | Foundation Consumer Healthcare |
| Class | Allergy and Antihistamines | Hormones and Birth Control |
| Strengths | 30mg, 60mg, 120mg, 180mg | 1.5mg |
| Forms | tablet, oral suspension, orodispersible tablet | tablet |
What's the same
Allegra and Plan B 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 Plan B belongs to Hormones and Birth Control. 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. Plan B: Plan B's primary mechanism is delaying or preventing ovulation when taken before the LH surge.
When Allegra is preferred
Allegra is approved in adults and children for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.
When Plan B is preferred
Plan B is indicated for emergency contraception after unprotected intercourse or known/suspected contraceptive failure, in women of reproductive age.
Frequently asked questions
Is Allegra or Plan B better? ▾
Allegra and Plan B 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 Plan B? ▾
Switching between Allegra and Plan B 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 Plan B 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.