Allegra

Meaning of Allegra: Allegra is the brand name for fexofenadine, a second-generation antihistamine that relieves allergy symptoms with less drowsiness than older allergy medications.

Definition of Allegra

Allegra is a brand name for fexofenadine, a medication used to relieve symptoms of seasonal and other allergies, including sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. It belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines.

Allegra works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical the body releases during an allergic reaction that produces many of its familiar symptoms. By blocking histamine's effect on its receptors, Allegra reduces the itching, swelling, and secretions that histamine would otherwise cause.

Allegra is classified as a second generation antihistamine, a group developed to cross less readily into the brain than older, first generation antihistamines, resulting in less sedation for most people at typical doses. It is taken by mouth and is available both by prescription and over the counter depending on the formulation and dose.