Allegra

Do not take Allegra-D if you have glaucoma, urination problems, or severe high blood pressure or heart disease. Also avoid taking Allegra-D within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate.

Special warnings about Allegra

Use Allegra-D with caution if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, increased pressure in the eyes, prostate problems, or hyperthyroidism. Stop using it and check with your doctor if it causes nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness.

Some of the inactive ingredients in Allegra-D tablets may show up in your stools; this is normal and nothing to worry about.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Allegra

Check with your doctor before combining Allegra with erythromycin or ketoconazole. These drugs may increase Allegra's effects.

Allow a little time between a dose of Allegra and antacids such as Maalox that contain aluminum and magnesium. This type of antacid can decrease Allegra's effects.

Allegra-D should never be taken within 2 weeks of using an MAO-inhibitor drug such as the antidepressants isocarboxazid, phenelzine sulfate, and tranylcypromine sulfate. Also check with your doctor before combining it with the following:

• Mecamylamine
• Methyldopa
• Reserpine

You should also avoid Allegra-D if you have a pacemaker and take digoxin. And you should not combine it with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants.

Allegra-D should not be taken with fruit juices; combining the two can induce wheals (small itchy swellings) and rash-like symptoms.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of this drug during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Allegra appears in breast milk. If the drug is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Allegra