Can You Buy Fexofenadine Over The Counter?

What is Fexofenadine used for?

Fexofenadine is a new generation antihistamine which is used relieve symptoms of hay fever and allergy. This includes symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose and itchy and watery eyes. It can also be used to treat chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives lasting longer than 6 weeks). It works by blocking the release of histamine, a natural substance that the body produces in response to allergy. It is a non-drowsy antihistamine, and its low side-effect profile means that it is well tolerated amongst users. The dose is one tablet daily, with fexofenadine taking 1 hour to work and lasting for up to 24 hours. It is considered to be one of the stronger antihistamines, as it has a high success rate.

Can you buy Fexofenadine over the counter?

You can now buy fexofenadine over the counter in the UK. In December 2020, the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency approved the reclassification of fexofenadine hydrochloride 120mg tablets from a POM to a GSL. This means that you can now purchase fexofenadine 120mg from a wide range of retail outlets including pharmacies, newsagents, petrol stations and online marketplaces. This does not apply to fexofenadine 180mg, which you cannot buy over the counter and will remain a Prescription Only Medication.

Where to buy Fexofenadine

In the UK, you can purchase fexofenadine 120mg from anywhere. As it falls under the 'GSL' (general sales list) class, there are limited restrictions on where this product can be sold. If you wish to obtain fexofenadine 180mg, you will need to make an appointment with your GP. Alternatively, you can obtain the higher strength from an online pharmacy that offers a consultation service. The consultation will be assessed by a doctor or prescribing pharmacist, who will determine whether the product is safe for you to take.

If you are in another country such as America, Australia, Canada, or any of the countries where it is licensed to sell OTC, you can purchase both strengths of fexofenadine from a pharmacy without a prescription. You should check with the pharmacist to make sure that it is suitable for you to take.

The Verdict

Prescribing of fexofenadine in the UK has increased over the past few years, with other drugs such as cetirizine, loratadine, desloratadine and levocetirizine showing a decline in prescribing. Annual sales have exceeded $1 billion annually, and in the UK, it is the second most prescribed antihistamine after cetirizine. It is estimated that fexofenadine will overtake cetirizine very soon. Given its increasing popularity and low side-effect profile, it is no surprise that fexofenadine will be available over the counter in the UK within the near future.

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.