As a derivative of Terfenadine; does Rapido
(Fexofenadine) has the same side effects of
Terfenadine?
Rapido (Fexofenadine) is the active metabolite of
Terfenadine, It resembles Terfenadine only in its
powerful action but it doesn’t cause the side
effects; for example Fexofenadine has no serious
drug interactions with Erythromycin and
Ketoconazole. Also there are no E.C.G. changes
(increase QT intervals) even in very high dose.
What about the safety of Rapido (Fexofenadine) in
elderly patients?
►Peak plasma levels of
Fexofenadine are greater in geriatrics (over 65
years), but elimination half life is similar to that
in younger age.
►No change in pharmacokinetics of Fexofenadine in
patients with hepatic impairment (5 % of the total
dose is metabolized in liver) .
►Renal impairment the rate of excretion &
elimination half life was prolonged in those
patients, generally the product is well tolerated in
elderly patients.
