My doctor prescribed Allegra 120 for dust allergy, but I got slight stomach pain. Should I stop?

Dear reader,

Allegra (Fexofenadine) is an antihistamine commonly prescribed to relieve allergy symptoms, including those caused by dust. It is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects in some people. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort—such as stomach pain—is a an uncommon side effect.

What You Should Do:

If you’ve started Allegra 120 and are now experiencing mild stomach pain, here’s how to approach it safely:

1. Contact your doctor: The doctor who prescribed the medication is the best person to determine whether the stomach pain is a typical, temporary effect or a sign that the medication may need to be adjusted or changed.
2. Describe your symptoms clearly: Let your doctor know when the stomach pain started, how strong it is, how long it lasts, and whether anything makes it better or worse. These details help them accurately assess the cause.
3. Avoid changing your dose on your own: Don’t stop, reduce, or skip doses unless your doctor tells you to. Changing the medication without guidance may worsen your allergy symptoms or make it harder for your doctor to assess what’s going on.

Your doctor may advise continuing the medication, switching to an alternative antihistamine, or taking steps to ease the stomach discomfort—such as taking the dose with food, if appropriate.

Consult your physician about allergy panel tests that help identify the allergen. People who identify and eliminate allergen exposure usually experience a significant reduction in the need for antiallergy medications. 

Wishing you good health.