What Is Fexofenadine and Pseudoephedrine?
Fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine is manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceuticals.
How Does Fexofenadine and Pseudoephedrine Work?
When you come in contact with something you're allergic to, a chain reaction begins inside your body. During this chain reaction, special cells release powerful chemicals. Some of these chemicals can trigger swelling of the nasal passages, leading to nasal congestion (a "stuffy nose"). Other chemicals, such as histamine, can cause sneezing, itching, and irritation.
Fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine is a combination medication. Fexofenadine (
Allegra®) is part of a class of drugs called antihistamines. Allegra blocks the effects of histamine (hence its classification as an antihistamine). This leads to the relief of
allergy symptoms -- except for nasal congestion. Pseudoephedrine (the most common brand name being
Sudafed®) is a decongestant. It works by decreasing the swelling in the nasal passages, which improves the nasal congestion.