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What Are Fexofenadine Hayfever Tablets and How Do They Help?
If hayfever is making your days miserable — the constant sneezing, the itchy eyes, the blocked nose that just won't quit — you're far from alone. Hayfever affects around one in five people in the UK, and for many, it's a seasonal battle that starts in spring and drags on well into summer. Fexofenadine hayfever tablets like Allevia offer a non-drowsy, once-daily option that gets to work on your symptoms without leaving you feeling foggy or fatigued. You can browse our full range of allergy and hay fever treatments to find the right option for you.
Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief contains 120mg of fexofenadine hydrochloride per tablet. It's licensed in the UK as an over-the-counter medicine for adults and children aged 12 and over, and it's designed to relieve the classic symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis — sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. Each pack contains 30 tablets, giving you a full month's supply when taken as directed.
How Does Allevia Work to Relieve Allergy Symptoms?
Fexofenadine is a third-generation, selective H1 antihistamine. When your immune system encounters an allergen like pollen, it triggers the release of histamine — a chemical that causes the familiar symptoms of hayfever. Fexofenadine works by blocking H1 histamine receptors, preventing histamine from binding and triggering those reactions.
- Histamine is released when your body detects an allergen such as grass or tree pollen
- Fexofenadine selectively blocks peripheral H1 receptors, reducing the allergic response
- Because it has limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, it causes significantly less sedation than older antihistamines
- One 120mg tablet provides up to 24 hours of symptom relief
This makes it particularly useful if you need to drive, work, or study during hayfever season without the cognitive impairment that first-generation antihistamines like chlorphenamine can cause.
Who Should Use Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief Tablets?
Allevia is suitable for a wide range of people who experience seasonal allergic rhinitis. It's especially well-suited to those who have found older antihistamines too sedating, or who need reliable symptom control throughout the working day.
- Adults aged 18 and over with hayfever or seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Adolescents aged 12–17 experiencing hayfever symptoms
- People who drive or operate machinery and need a non-drowsy option
- Those who want once-daily dosing for consistent, all-day relief
It is not suitable for children under 12, and you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney problems.
How Does Allevia Compare to Other Hayfever Tablets?
| Feature | Allevia (Fexofenadine 120mg) | Cetirizine 10mg |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Fexofenadine hydrochloride | Cetirizine hydrochloride |
| Dosing frequency | Once daily | Once daily |
| Sedation risk | Very low (non-sedating) | Low to moderate |
| Suitable age | 12 years and over | 6 years and over (varies by formulation) |
Is Allevia Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?
Allevia can be used throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on which pollens trigger your symptoms. If you're managing symptoms over several weeks, it's worth keeping a consistent daily routine with your tablet. Store Allevia below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, and always keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
If you're also dealing with itchy or watery eyes alongside your other hayfever symptoms, you might find it helpful to explore our eye care range for additional relief options. Always check with your pharmacist before combining treatments.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief 30 Tablets specifications
| Treatment category | Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever) |
| Active ingredient | Fexofenadine hydrochloride 120mg |
| Mechanism of action | Selective peripheral H1 antihistamine |
| Effective | Up to 24 hours per dose |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 12 and over |
| Pack size | 30 tablets |
| Strength | 120mg |
| UK classification | P (Pharmacy medicine) |
| Drug class | Third-generation antihistamine |
| Preparation | Film-coated tablet |
| Route of administration | Oral |
Specifications of Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief 30 Tablets
What Is Allevia and What Is It Used For?
Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief tablets contain fexofenadine hydrochloride 120mg as the active ingredient. They are used to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis — commonly known as hayfever — in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over. Symptoms that Allevia can help with include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy nose, and itchy, red, or watery eyes. It is taken once daily and provides relief for up to 24 hours.
Fexofenadine hayfever tablets are classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning they are available without a prescription but should be purchased from a registered pharmacy. They are not intended to treat food allergies, asthma, or skin conditions such as eczema.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Allevia?
Before taking Allevia, it's important to check whether it's appropriate for you. Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply:
- You are allergic to fexofenadine hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the tablet
- You are under 12 years of age
- You have severe kidney (renal) impairment — speak to your GP first
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding without first seeking medical advice
The following medicines may interact with fexofenadine and affect how well it works or increase the risk of side effects:
- Erythromycin (an antibiotic) — may increase fexofenadine blood levels
- Ketoconazole (an antifungal) — may increase fexofenadine blood levels
- Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide — may reduce absorption if taken at the same time
- Fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple) — significantly reduce absorption; always take with water
If you are taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies or supplements, speak to your pharmacist before starting Allevia. You can also explore our vitamins and supplements range if you're looking to support your general health alongside your allergy treatment.
How Should You Use Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief?
Always take Allevia exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. The standard dosing instructions are as follows:
- Take one tablet (120mg) once daily
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water — not fruit juice
- Take it before a meal if possible, as food can slightly affect absorption
- Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent symptom control
- Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever) | Adults and children aged 12+ | 120mg (1 tablet) | Once daily |
| Children under 12 | Under 12 years | Not recommended | — |
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Allevia?
Like all medicines, Allevia can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. If you experience a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash — stop taking the tablets and seek emergency medical help immediately.
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
- Headache
- Drowsiness (despite being classed as non-drowsy, mild sedation can still occur in some individuals)
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Nervousness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Skin rash or itching
If you're also experiencing nasal congestion or ear symptoms alongside your hayfever, our ear, nose and throat range may offer complementary relief options worth discussing with your pharmacist.
How Should You Store Allevia Hayfever Tablets?
- Store below 25°C in a dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton or blister pack
- Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/fexofenadine/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antihistamines/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/fexofenadine-hydrochloride/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Allevia hayfever tablets online in the UK?
You can buy Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief 30 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. No prescription is needed as it is an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door. You can also browse our full allergy and hay fever collection for additional treatment options.
How do fexofenadine hayfever tablets work in the body?
Fexofenadine is a selective H1 antihistamine that works by blocking histamine receptors in the body, preventing histamine from triggering the allergic response that causes sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Unlike older antihistamines, fexofenadine has a very limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which is why it causes far less drowsiness. It begins to work within one to three hours of taking a dose and provides relief for up to 24 hours.
How do I take Allevia hayfever tablets step by step?
Take one 120mg tablet once a day, swallowed whole with a full glass of water — never with fruit juice, as this reduces how much of the medicine your body absorbs. It's best taken before a meal, and ideally at the same time each day to keep your symptom control consistent. Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period.
What is the best time of day to take Allevia tablets?
There is no single "best" time, but many people find taking Allevia in the morning before heading outdoors works well during hayfever season, as pollen counts tend to peak in the late morning and early afternoon. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain a steady level of the medicine in your system. If you find it causes any mild drowsiness, switching to an evening dose may suit you better.
What are the side effects of Allevia and how do I manage them?
The most commonly reported side effects of Allevia include headache, nausea, dizziness, and mild drowsiness. These are generally mild and often settle after the first few days of use. If you experience a rapid heartbeat, severe skin rash, or any signs of a serious allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, stop taking the tablets immediately and seek urgent medical attention.
Who is eligible to take Allevia hayfever allergy relief tablets?
Allevia is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who experience seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever). It is not recommended for children under 12, and people with severe kidney impairment should consult their GP before use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before taking any antihistamine, including fexofenadine.
What happens if I miss a dose of Allevia?
If you forget to take your tablet, take it as soon as you remember — unless it's nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case simply skip the missed one and carry on as normal. Never take two tablets at once to compensate for a missed dose. Missing the occasional dose is unlikely to cause any harm, but consistent daily use gives the best symptom control.
Can I take Allevia if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The safety of fexofenadine during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established, so it is not recommended without medical supervision. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently breastfeeding, speak to your GP or midwife before taking Allevia. They can advise on the most appropriate treatment for your hayfever symptoms during this time.
How does Allevia compare to cetirizine or loratadine for hayfever?
All three — fexofenadine, cetirizine, and loratadine — are once-daily antihistamines used for hayfever, but they differ in their sedation profiles. Fexofenadine (Allevia) is generally considered the least likely to cause drowsiness, making it a preferred choice for people who drive or need to stay alert at work. Cetirizine can cause mild sedation in some people, while loratadine sits somewhere in between. The right choice depends on your individual response and lifestyle.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Allevia hayfever tablets?
Fexofenadine is considered non-sedating, but combining it with alcohol may still increase the risk of drowsiness or dizziness in some individuals. The NHS advises caution when drinking alcohol alongside antihistamines. It's sensible to avoid alcohol or keep consumption minimal while taking Allevia, particularly if you need to drive or operate machinery.
Why can't I take Allevia with fruit juice?
Grapefruit, orange, and apple juices contain compounds that inhibit the transport proteins responsible for absorbing fexofenadine into your bloodstream. Studies have shown that taking fexofenadine with these juices can reduce the amount of medicine absorbed by up to 36%, significantly reducing its effectiveness. Always take Allevia with a full glass of plain water to ensure you get the full benefit of the dose.
How long can I take Allevia hayfever tablets for?
Allevia can be taken throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March through to September, depending on which pollens affect you. There is no strict maximum duration for seasonal use, but if your symptoms persist year-round or worsen despite treatment, speak to your GP. Long-term use beyond the hayfever season should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Are there any foods or medicines I should avoid while taking Allevia?
Yes — avoid taking Allevia with fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, or apple), as these reduce absorption. Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide should not be taken at the same time as Allevia; leave at least two hours between them. The antibiotics erythromycin and the antifungal ketoconazole can increase fexofenadine levels in the blood, so inform your pharmacist if you are prescribed either of these.
What are the latest research findings on fexofenadine for hayfever?
Fexofenadine has been extensively studied since its introduction and remains one of the most well-evidenced non-sedating antihistamines available. Clinical research consistently confirms its efficacy in reducing nasal and ocular symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis with a favourable safety profile. It continues to be recommended by the NHS and included in NICE guidance as a first-line treatment option for hayfever in adults and children aged 12 and over.
Can I use Allevia alongside other hayfever treatments such as nasal sprays?
Yes, in many cases fexofenadine hayfever tablets can be used alongside a corticosteroid nasal spray (such as beclometasone or fluticasone) for more complete symptom control, particularly if nasal congestion is a significant problem. However, always check with your pharmacist or GP before combining treatments. If itchy eyes are also troublesome, our eye care range includes antihistamine eye drops that may complement your tablet treatment.
Description
What Are Fexofenadine Hayfever Tablets and How Do They Help?
If hayfever is making your days miserable — the constant sneezing, the itchy eyes, the blocked nose that just won't quit — you're far from alone. Hayfever affects around one in five people in the UK, and for many, it's a seasonal battle that starts in spring and drags on well into summer. Fexofenadine hayfever tablets like Allevia offer a non-drowsy, once-daily option that gets to work on your symptoms without leaving you feeling foggy or fatigued. You can browse our full range of allergy and hay fever treatments to find the right option for you.
Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief contains 120mg of fexofenadine hydrochloride per tablet. It's licensed in the UK as an over-the-counter medicine for adults and children aged 12 and over, and it's designed to relieve the classic symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis — sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. Each pack contains 30 tablets, giving you a full month's supply when taken as directed.
How Does Allevia Work to Relieve Allergy Symptoms?
Fexofenadine is a third-generation, selective H1 antihistamine. When your immune system encounters an allergen like pollen, it triggers the release of histamine — a chemical that causes the familiar symptoms of hayfever. Fexofenadine works by blocking H1 histamine receptors, preventing histamine from binding and triggering those reactions.
- Histamine is released when your body detects an allergen such as grass or tree pollen
- Fexofenadine selectively blocks peripheral H1 receptors, reducing the allergic response
- Because it has limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, it causes significantly less sedation than older antihistamines
- One 120mg tablet provides up to 24 hours of symptom relief
This makes it particularly useful if you need to drive, work, or study during hayfever season without the cognitive impairment that first-generation antihistamines like chlorphenamine can cause.
Who Should Use Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief Tablets?
Allevia is suitable for a wide range of people who experience seasonal allergic rhinitis. It's especially well-suited to those who have found older antihistamines too sedating, or who need reliable symptom control throughout the working day.
- Adults aged 18 and over with hayfever or seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Adolescents aged 12–17 experiencing hayfever symptoms
- People who drive or operate machinery and need a non-drowsy option
- Those who want once-daily dosing for consistent, all-day relief
It is not suitable for children under 12, and you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney problems.
How Does Allevia Compare to Other Hayfever Tablets?
| Feature | Allevia (Fexofenadine 120mg) | Cetirizine 10mg |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Fexofenadine hydrochloride | Cetirizine hydrochloride |
| Dosing frequency | Once daily | Once daily |
| Sedation risk | Very low (non-sedating) | Low to moderate |
| Suitable age | 12 years and over | 6 years and over (varies by formulation) |
Is Allevia Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?
Allevia can be used throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on which pollens trigger your symptoms. If you're managing symptoms over several weeks, it's worth keeping a consistent daily routine with your tablet. Store Allevia below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, and always keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
If you're also dealing with itchy or watery eyes alongside your other hayfever symptoms, you might find it helpful to explore our eye care range for additional relief options. Always check with your pharmacist before combining treatments.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief 30 Tablets specifications
| Treatment category | Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever) |
| Active ingredient | Fexofenadine hydrochloride 120mg |
| Mechanism of action | Selective peripheral H1 antihistamine |
| Effective | Up to 24 hours per dose |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 12 and over |
| Pack size | 30 tablets |
| Strength | 120mg |
| UK classification | P (Pharmacy medicine) |
| Drug class | Third-generation antihistamine |
| Preparation | Film-coated tablet |
| Route of administration | Oral |
Specifications of Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief 30 Tablets
What Is Allevia and What Is It Used For?
Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief tablets contain fexofenadine hydrochloride 120mg as the active ingredient. They are used to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis — commonly known as hayfever — in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over. Symptoms that Allevia can help with include sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy nose, and itchy, red, or watery eyes. It is taken once daily and provides relief for up to 24 hours.
Fexofenadine hayfever tablets are classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning they are available without a prescription but should be purchased from a registered pharmacy. They are not intended to treat food allergies, asthma, or skin conditions such as eczema.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Allevia?
Before taking Allevia, it's important to check whether it's appropriate for you. Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply:
- You are allergic to fexofenadine hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the tablet
- You are under 12 years of age
- You have severe kidney (renal) impairment — speak to your GP first
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding without first seeking medical advice
The following medicines may interact with fexofenadine and affect how well it works or increase the risk of side effects:
- Erythromycin (an antibiotic) — may increase fexofenadine blood levels
- Ketoconazole (an antifungal) — may increase fexofenadine blood levels
- Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide — may reduce absorption if taken at the same time
- Fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple) — significantly reduce absorption; always take with water
If you are taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies or supplements, speak to your pharmacist before starting Allevia. You can also explore our vitamins and supplements range if you're looking to support your general health alongside your allergy treatment.
How Should You Use Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief?
Always take Allevia exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. The standard dosing instructions are as follows:
- Take one tablet (120mg) once daily
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water — not fruit juice
- Take it before a meal if possible, as food can slightly affect absorption
- Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent symptom control
- Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever) | Adults and children aged 12+ | 120mg (1 tablet) | Once daily |
| Children under 12 | Under 12 years | Not recommended | — |
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Allevia?
Like all medicines, Allevia can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. If you experience a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash — stop taking the tablets and seek emergency medical help immediately.
Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
- Headache
- Drowsiness (despite being classed as non-drowsy, mild sedation can still occur in some individuals)
- Nausea
- Dizziness
Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Nervousness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Skin rash or itching
If you're also experiencing nasal congestion or ear symptoms alongside your hayfever, our ear, nose and throat range may offer complementary relief options worth discussing with your pharmacist.
How Should You Store Allevia Hayfever Tablets?
- Store below 25°C in a dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton or blister pack
- Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/fexofenadine/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antihistamines/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/fexofenadine-hydrochloride/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Allevia hayfever tablets online in the UK?
You can buy Allevia Hayfever Allergy Relief 30 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. No prescription is needed as it is an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door. You can also browse our full allergy and hay fever collection for additional treatment options.
How do fexofenadine hayfever tablets work in the body?
Fexofenadine is a selective H1 antihistamine that works by blocking histamine receptors in the body, preventing histamine from triggering the allergic response that causes sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Unlike older antihistamines, fexofenadine has a very limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, which is why it causes far less drowsiness. It begins to work within one to three hours of taking a dose and provides relief for up to 24 hours.
How do I take Allevia hayfever tablets step by step?
Take one 120mg tablet once a day, swallowed whole with a full glass of water — never with fruit juice, as this reduces how much of the medicine your body absorbs. It's best taken before a meal, and ideally at the same time each day to keep your symptom control consistent. Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period.
What is the best time of day to take Allevia tablets?
There is no single "best" time, but many people find taking Allevia in the morning before heading outdoors works well during hayfever season, as pollen counts tend to peak in the late morning and early afternoon. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain a steady level of the medicine in your system. If you find it causes any mild drowsiness, switching to an evening dose may suit you better.
What are the side effects of Allevia and how do I manage them?
The most commonly reported side effects of Allevia include headache, nausea, dizziness, and mild drowsiness. These are generally mild and often settle after the first few days of use. If you experience a rapid heartbeat, severe skin rash, or any signs of a serious allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, stop taking the tablets immediately and seek urgent medical attention.
Who is eligible to take Allevia hayfever allergy relief tablets?
Allevia is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who experience seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever). It is not recommended for children under 12, and people with severe kidney impairment should consult their GP before use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before taking any antihistamine, including fexofenadine.
What happens if I miss a dose of Allevia?
If you forget to take your tablet, take it as soon as you remember — unless it's nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case simply skip the missed one and carry on as normal. Never take two tablets at once to compensate for a missed dose. Missing the occasional dose is unlikely to cause any harm, but consistent daily use gives the best symptom control.
Can I take Allevia if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The safety of fexofenadine during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established, so it is not recommended without medical supervision. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently breastfeeding, speak to your GP or midwife before taking Allevia. They can advise on the most appropriate treatment for your hayfever symptoms during this time.
How does Allevia compare to cetirizine or loratadine for hayfever?
All three — fexofenadine, cetirizine, and loratadine — are once-daily antihistamines used for hayfever, but they differ in their sedation profiles. Fexofenadine (Allevia) is generally considered the least likely to cause drowsiness, making it a preferred choice for people who drive or need to stay alert at work. Cetirizine can cause mild sedation in some people, while loratadine sits somewhere in between. The right choice depends on your individual response and lifestyle.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Allevia hayfever tablets?
Fexofenadine is considered non-sedating, but combining it with alcohol may still increase the risk of drowsiness or dizziness in some individuals. The NHS advises caution when drinking alcohol alongside antihistamines. It's sensible to avoid alcohol or keep consumption minimal while taking Allevia, particularly if you need to drive or operate machinery.
Why can't I take Allevia with fruit juice?
Grapefruit, orange, and apple juices contain compounds that inhibit the transport proteins responsible for absorbing fexofenadine into your bloodstream. Studies have shown that taking fexofenadine with these juices can reduce the amount of medicine absorbed by up to 36%, significantly reducing its effectiveness. Always take Allevia with a full glass of plain water to ensure you get the full benefit of the dose.
How long can I take Allevia hayfever tablets for?
Allevia can be taken throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March through to September, depending on which pollens affect you. There is no strict maximum duration for seasonal use, but if your symptoms persist year-round or worsen despite treatment, speak to your GP. Long-term use beyond the hayfever season should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Are there any foods or medicines I should avoid while taking Allevia?
Yes — avoid taking Allevia with fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, or apple), as these reduce absorption. Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide should not be taken at the same time as Allevia; leave at least two hours between them. The antibiotics erythromycin and the antifungal ketoconazole can increase fexofenadine levels in the blood, so inform your pharmacist if you are prescribed either of these.
What are the latest research findings on fexofenadine for hayfever?
Fexofenadine has been extensively studied since its introduction and remains one of the most well-evidenced non-sedating antihistamines available. Clinical research consistently confirms its efficacy in reducing nasal and ocular symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis with a favourable safety profile. It continues to be recommended by the NHS and included in NICE guidance as a first-line treatment option for hayfever in adults and children aged 12 and over.
Can I use Allevia alongside other hayfever treatments such as nasal sprays?
Yes, in many cases fexofenadine hayfever tablets can be used alongside a corticosteroid nasal spray (such as beclometasone or fluticasone) for more complete symptom control, particularly if nasal congestion is a significant problem. However, always check with your pharmacist or GP before combining treatments. If itchy eyes are also troublesome, our eye care range includes antihistamine eye drops that may complement your tablet treatment.
