Second-generation H1 antihistamine
Fexofenadine with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Fexofenadine (Fexofenadine). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Fexofenadine at 30mg, 60mg, 120mg, 180mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Second-generation H1 antihistamine agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Fexofenadine at 30mg, 60mg, 120mg, 180mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Fexofenadine, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Fexofenadine is co-administered. Adjusted 30mg, 60mg, 120mg, 180mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fexofenadine during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Fexofenadine is metabolised and may need a temporary 30mg, 60mg, 120mg, 180mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Fexofenadine regimen.
Will antibiotics make Fexofenadine stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Fexofenadine efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Fexofenadine levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Fexofenadine
More on Fexofenadine
- With alcoholFexofenadine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Fexofenadine be taken with food?
- Side effectsFexofenadine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideFexofenadine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Fexofenadine start working?
- DurationHow long does Fexofenadine last?
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