Telfast Tablets

What is Telfast?

Telfast is a non-drowsy antihistamine medication containing the active substance fexofenadine hydrochloride, presented as peach-colored, film-coated tablets. It belongs to a class of medicines called peripheral H1-receptor antagonists that work by blocking histamine receptors without significantly crossing the blood-brain barrier.

Mechanism of Action

Telfast works through a targeted antihistamine mechanism:

• Histamine blockade: Competitively inhibits H1-receptors on blood vessels and respiratory tract cells
• Peripheral action: Minimal penetration of the blood-brain barrier reduces central nervous system effects
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Reduces histamine-mediated inflammatory responses in nasal and ocular tissues

Imagine your allergy response as a false alarm system - Telfast acts like a smart security guard that stops the alarm (histamine) from triggering unwanted symptoms without affecting your alertness.

Pharmacological Profile

• Onset of action: Within 1 hour
• Peak concentration: 1-3 hours post-dose
• Duration: 24 hours of symptom relief
• Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism (less than 5%)
• Excretion: Primarily renal (80%) and faecal (11%)

What is Telfast Used For?

Telfast 120mg is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) in:

• Adults
• Adolescents aged 12 years and over

Symptom Relief Coverage

Before Using Telfast

Essential considerations before initiating treatment:

Medical History Assessment

• Renal impairment or kidney disease
• Hepatic impairment or liver disease
• Cardiac conditions (arrhythmias, heart disease)
• Previous hypersensitivity to antihistamines
• Elderly status (increased monitoring may be required)

Pre-Treatment Evaluation

1. Confirm hay fever diagnosis and symptom pattern
2. Assess for alternative causes of rhinitis (infectious, vasomotor)
3. Evaluate renal function in patients with risk factors
4. Review current medication regimen for interactions
5. Consider allergy testing if diagnosis is uncertain

Telfast Contraindications

Absolute contraindications where Telfast must not be used:

Absolute Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to fexofenadine or any excipients
• Severe renal impairment requiring dialysis

Special Precautions

Special Population Considerations

Elderly Patients (≥65 years)

• Increased risk of side effects due to age-related physiological changes
• Higher likelihood of concurrent medications and comorbidities
• Renal function assessment recommended before prescribing

Renal Impairment

• Mild impairment (CrCl 60-89 mL/min): No dose adjustment needed
• Moderate impairment (CrCl 30-59 mL/min): Consider dose reduction
• Severe impairment (CrCl 15-29 mL/min): Maximum 60mg daily
• End-stage renal disease: Contraindicated

Hepatic Impairment

• Limited clinical data available
• Use with caution in severe hepatic impairment
• Monitor for increased side effects

Paediatric Population

• 12-17 years: Standard adult dose (120mg once daily)
• 6-11 years: Lower strength available (30mg tablets)
• Under 6 years: Not recommended

Telfast and Other Medicines

Significant interactions requiring attention:

High-Risk Combinations

• Antacids containing aluminium/magnesium: Reduce fexofenadine absorption by up to 41%
• Erythromycin/Ketoconazole: May increase fexofenadine plasma concentrations
• Fruit juices (apple, orange, grapefruit): Can decrease bioavailability

Timing Recommendations

For optimal absorption and efficacy:

• Take Telfast 2 hours before or 4 hours after antacids
• Administer with water only (avoid fruit juices)
• Take before a meal for consistent absorption
• Avoid concurrent administration with P-glycoprotein inhibitors

Compatible Medications

No clinically significant interactions with:

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Pregnancy

• Category B2 (Australian categorisation)
• Limited human data available
• Not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary
• Animal studies show no direct harmful effects
• Consult obstetrician before use in pregnancy

Breastfeeding

• Excreted in breast milk in small amounts
• Not recommended during breastfeeding
• Consider alternative feeding methods if treatment is essential
• Consult healthcare provider for risk-benefit assessment

Driving & Machine Operation

• Classified as non-drowsy antihistamine
• Unlikely to affect driving ability in most individuals
• Individual responses may vary
• Precaution: Test your reaction before driving or operating machinery
• If drowsiness or dizziness occurs, avoid hazardous activities
• Report any impairment to your healthcare provider

Telfast Ingredients

Active Substance

• Fexofenadine hydrochloride - 120mg per tablet

Excipients (Tablet Core)

Film Coating Components

Allergen Information

• Contains no lactose, gluten, or tartrazine
• Suitable for most common dietary restrictions

How to Use Telfast Tablets

Preparation Steps

1. Wash hands thoroughly before handling medication
2. Remove tablet from blister pack by pushing through foil
3. Inspect tablet: should be intact peach-colored capsule-shaped tablet
4. Have a glass of water ready (approximately 200ml)

Administration Technique

• Timing: Take before a meal for optimal absorption
• Method: Swallow whole with water
• Do not crush, chew, or break tablets
• Liquid intake: Ensure adequate water to facilitate swallowing

Optimal Administration Protocol

1. Take tablet at the same time each day
2. Administer before breakfast for consistent daily timing
3. Record administration to prevent missed doses
4. Continue throughout hay fever season as needed

Telfast Dosage Guidelines

Standard Dosage Schedule

*Lower strength formulation required for children 6-11 years

Duration of Treatment

• Short-term: As needed during high pollen counts
• Seasonal: Throughout hay fever season (typically March-September in UK)
• Long-term: Can be used continuously for chronic allergic rhinitis
• No tolerance development reported with extended use

Dose Adjustment Criteria

• No titration required - start with full therapeutic dose
• Adjust based on renal function only
• Do not exceed recommended daily dose
• Efficacy should be apparent within 1-3 days

Administration Instructions

Step-by-step administration guide:

Optimal Timing

1. Take tablet in the morning before breakfast
2. If switching from evening dose, take next dose in morning
3. Maintain consistent daily timing
4. Avoid taking with fruit juices or antacids

Administration Process

1. Place tablet on tongue
2. Take with full glass of water (200ml minimum)
3. Swallow whole without chewing
4. Remain upright for 10 minutes post-administration

Special Administration Circumstances

• Swallowing difficulties: Consult pharmacist for alternatives
• Nasogastric tube: Not recommended for tube administration
• With food: Can be taken with or immediately after food if gastrointestinal upset occurs

Missed Dose Management

General Principles

• Do NOT take double dose to compensate for missed tablet
• If remembered within 12 hours, take as soon as possible
• If remembered after 12 hours, skip missed dose

Time-Based Guidance

Practical Examples

• Usual dose 8am, remembered at 2pm: Take immediately
• Usual dose 8am, remembered at 10pm: Skip, take next day at 8am
• Multiple missed doses: Resume regular schedule, do not catch up

Overdose Information

Symptoms

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Potential cardiac effects at very high doses

Management Protocol

1. Seek immediate medical attention or contact Poison Control
2. Bring medication packaging to emergency department
3. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical professional
4. Symptomatic and supportive treatment:
   • Activated charcoal if presented within 1 hour
   • Cardiac monitoring if symptomatic
   • IV fluids if dehydrated
5. No specific antidote available

Prevention Strategies

• Use weekly pill organizer for daily doses
• Set daily medication reminder on phone
• Store medication out of reach of children
• Never share prescription with others

Possible Side Effects

Like all medicines, Telfast can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. According to the official product information, side effects are categorized as follows:

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Nausea (feeling sick)
• Dizziness

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

• Tiredness/sleepiness

Additional Side Effects (frequency not known)

How to Store Telfast

Storage Conditions

• Temperature: Room temperature (below 25°C)
• Environment: Dry place, protected from moisture
• Light: Store in original packaging to protect from light
• Access: Keep out of sight and reach of children

Special Storage Notes

• No refrigeration required
• Do not remove tablets from blister until needed
• Keep blister cards in outer carton
• Check expiry date before use (marked on carton after EXP)

Disposal Protocol

1. Do not dispose of medication via wastewater
2. Return unused or expired medication to pharmacy
3. Follow local medication disposal guidelines
4. Never dispose in household waste accessible to children or pets

Telfast Pack Information

Pack Sizes Available

• 7 tablets (1-week supply)
• 10 tablets
• 15 tablets
• 20 tablets
• 30 tablets (1-month supply)
• 50 tablets
• 100 tablets (as 10x10 blister strips)
• 200 tablets (as 10x20 blister strips)

Note: Not all pack sizes are routinely marketed

Physical Characteristics

• Colour: Peach
• Shape: Capsule-shaped
• Dimensions: 6.1 x 15.8 mm
• Markings: "012" on one side, scripted "e" on reverse
• Coating: Film-coated for easier swallowing

Packaging Components

• PVC/PVDC/Aluminium blister strips
• Outer cardboard carton
• Package leaflet (this information)
• No measuring device included (not required for tablets)

Where Can I Buy Telfast Online in the UK