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Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg

Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg

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  • ✔️ Relieves chronic hives itching, redness, and raised wheals
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula — suitable for daytime use
  • ✔️ Once-daily 180mg fexofenadine tablet for consistent relief
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Clinically proven H1-receptor antihistamine for urticaria

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What Are Fexofenadine 180mg Tablets for Hives?

 

Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg are a non-drowsy antihistamine medicine designed specifically to relieve the symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria — more commonly known as hives. If you've ever dealt with the relentless itch, raised welts, and redness that hives bring, you'll know how disruptive it can be to daily life. Fexofenadine 180mg tablets offer targeted relief without the sedating effects associated with older antihistamines like chlorphenamine. Each tablet contains fexofenadine hydrochloride 180mg as the active ingredient, and the medicine is licensed for use in adults and children aged 12 years and over. You can explore the full range of allergy and hay fever treatments available at Cured Pharmacy if you're managing multiple allergic conditions alongside hives.

Hives affect roughly one in five people at some point in their lives, according to NHS guidance. Chronic urticaria — defined as hives lasting more than six weeks — can be particularly challenging to manage. Allevia Hives Tablets are classified as a P (Pharmacy) medicine in the UK, meaning they are available without a prescription but should be purchased from a registered pharmacy.

 

How Do Allevia Hives Tablets Work?

 

Fexofenadine is a second-generation, selective H1-receptor antagonist. In plain terms, it blocks the action of histamine — the chemical your immune system releases during an allergic reaction. When histamine binds to H1 receptors in the skin, it triggers the classic symptoms of hives: itching, swelling, and redness. By occupying those receptors first, fexofenadine prevents histamine from causing these effects.

  • Fexofenadine selectively targets peripheral H1 receptors rather than crossing the blood-brain barrier significantly, which is why it causes far less drowsiness than first-generation antihistamines.
  • It does not block muscarinic receptors, so it avoids the dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention sometimes seen with older antihistamines.
  • The medicine reaches peak plasma concentration within one to three hours of taking a tablet.
  • It is primarily excreted unchanged in the faeces and urine, with minimal hepatic metabolism — making it a suitable option for many patients who cannot tolerate medicines that are heavily liver-metabolised.

 

Who Should Use Allevia Hives Tablets?

 

These tablets are intended for people experiencing the symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria. "Idiopathic" simply means the exact cause hasn't been identified — which is actually the case for the majority of chronic hives sufferers. If your skin regularly breaks out in itchy, raised wheals that come and go over weeks or months, this medicine may be appropriate for you.

Allevia Hives Tablets are suitable for:

  • Adults aged 18 and over with chronic idiopathic urticaria
  • Adolescents aged 12 to 17 years with chronic idiopathic urticaria
  • People who have found older antihistamines too sedating for daytime use
  • Those who need once-daily dosing for convenience and adherence

 

How Do Allevia Hives Tablets Compare to Other Antihistamines?

 

Feature Allevia Hives 180mg (Fexofenadine) Cetirizine 10mg
Active ingredient Fexofenadine hydrochloride Cetirizine hydrochloride
Generation Second-generation Second-generation
Drowsiness risk Very low Low to moderate
Dosing frequency Once daily Once daily
Licensed for hives (urticaria) Yes — specifically licensed Yes
Suitable from age 12 years and over 2 years and over (syrup)

 

How Should You Store Allevia Hives Tablets?

 

Store Allevia Hives Tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the tablets in their original blister packaging until you are ready to use them. As with all medicines, keep them out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the pack — if in doubt, return unused medicines to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. If you're also managing skin-related symptoms alongside hives, you might find our skin care range helpful for soothing affected areas.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg specifications
Treatment category Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives)
Mechanism of action Selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist
Effective for Itching, redness, and raised wheals associated with hives
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 years and over
Active ingredient Fexofenadine hydrochloride 180mg
Pack sizes 7 tablets, 30 tablets
Strength 180mg
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Second-generation antihistamine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg

 

What Are Allevia Hives Tablets and What Are They Used For?

 

Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg contain fexofenadine hydrochloride, a non-sedating antihistamine. They are used to relieve the symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria — a condition characterised by recurring episodes of itchy, raised skin welts (wheals) that appear without a clearly identifiable cause. The condition can affect any part of the body and may also cause angioedema (swelling beneath the skin) in some people. These tablets help reduce itching, redness, and the size of wheals, making day-to-day life more manageable. They are not a cure for urticaria but provide effective symptomatic relief while the condition is active.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Allevia Hives Tablets?

 

Before taking these tablets, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not take Allevia Hives Tablets if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to fexofenadine hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You have severe kidney (renal) impairment — speak to your doctor first
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice before use

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking these tablets if you have kidney problems, even mild ones, as your dose may need to be adjusted. Also tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

Known drug interactions to be aware of:

  • Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide — take Allevia at least 2 hours before or after these products, as they can reduce fexofenadine absorption
  • Erythromycin (an antibiotic) and ketoconazole (an antifungal) — these can increase fexofenadine blood levels, though no additional side effects have been reported in clinical studies
  • Fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple) — avoid taking the tablet with these, as they significantly reduce how much fexofenadine your body absorbs

 

How Should You Use Allevia Hives Tablets?

 

Always take Allevia Hives Tablets exactly as described in this leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist or doctor. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water — not fruit juice.

  1. Take one tablet out of the blister pack.
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
  3. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
  4. Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your system.
  5. Avoid taking with grapefruit, orange, or apple juice.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Chronic idiopathic urticaria Adults and children aged 12+ One 180mg tablet Once daily
Chronic idiopathic urticaria Children under 12 Not recommended

If you are also dealing with other allergic symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes, you may find our eye care range useful alongside your hives treatment.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Allevia Hives Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, Allevia Hives Tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most people tolerate fexofenadine well. If you experience any side effects that concern you, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness (though significantly less than with first-generation antihistamines)
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Insomnia or sleep disturbances
  • Nervousness
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash or itching (paradoxical reaction — stop use and seek advice)

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare but possible. Seek emergency medical help immediately if you develop swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a sudden drop in blood pressure.

 

How Should You Store Allevia Hives Tablets?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medicine. Follow these instructions:

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep in the original blister packaging until use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

If you're managing multiple health concerns alongside hives, you might also want to browse our ear, nose and throat range for related allergic symptoms.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg online in the UK?

You can buy Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. They are available as an over-the-counter (P) medicine, so no prescription is needed. Simply add them to your basket and complete a short suitability check at checkout.

How do Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg work in the body?

Allevia Hives Tablets contain fexofenadine hydrochloride, which works by selectively blocking H1 histamine receptors in the body. When histamine is blocked, it cannot trigger the itching, redness, and swelling that characterise hives. Because fexofenadine does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, it causes very little drowsiness compared to older antihistamines.

How do I take Allevia Hives Tablets step by step?

Taking Allevia Hives Tablets correctly is straightforward:

  1. Remove one tablet from the blister pack.
  2. Swallow it whole with a full glass of water.
  3. Do not take with fruit juice — water only.
  4. Take at the same time each day for best results.

Never crush or chew the tablet, and do not exceed one tablet per day.

What is the correct dose of Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg?

The recommended dose for adults and children aged 12 years and over is one 180mg tablet taken once daily. Do not take more than one tablet in a 24-hour period. If you are unsure whether this dose is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the best time of day to take Allevia Hives Tablets?

There is no strict requirement to take Allevia at a specific time of day, but taking it at the same time each day helps maintain consistent levels of fexofenadine in your system. Many people find taking it in the morning with breakfast (and a glass of water) works well as part of a daily routine. Avoid taking it with fruit juice regardless of the time of day.

What are the side effects of Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg?

Most people tolerate Allevia Hives Tablets well. Possible side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness or drowsiness
  • Nausea or diarrhoea
  • Insomnia or nervousness (less common)

Serious allergic reactions are rare. Stop taking the tablets and seek immediate medical help if you develop facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or a rapid heartbeat.

How do I manage side effects of Allevia Hives Tablets?

If you experience a headache, staying well hydrated and taking a suitable painkiller (such as paracetamol) can help — you can browse our pain relief range for options. If drowsiness occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. For persistent or severe side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP promptly.

Who is eligible to take Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg?

Allevia Hives Tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over who have chronic idiopathic urticaria. They are not recommended for children under 12, or for people with severe kidney impairment without medical supervision. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their GP or midwife before use.

What happens if I miss a dose of Allevia Hives Tablets?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, simply skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Never take two tablets at once to compensate for a missed dose, as this will not improve your symptoms faster and may increase the risk of side effects.

Can I take Allevia Hives Tablets with other medicines?

Fexofenadine can interact with certain medicines. Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide should be taken at least two hours apart from Allevia. Erythromycin and ketoconazole may increase fexofenadine levels in the blood. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking before starting Allevia.

Are Allevia Hives Tablets safe to take during pregnancy?

The safety of fexofenadine during pregnancy has not been fully established in clinical studies. The NHS advises that antihistamines should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary and under medical supervision. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, speak to your GP or midwife before taking Allevia Hives Tablets.

How long can you take Allevia Hives Tablets for?

Allevia Hives Tablets can be used for as long as your symptoms persist, but you should review your treatment with a GP if you need to use them continuously for more than a few weeks. Chronic urticaria can sometimes resolve on its own, and your doctor may want to investigate any underlying causes or adjust your management plan over time.

What are the alternatives to Allevia Hives Tablets?

Other non-drowsy antihistamines used for hives include cetirizine and loratadine, both of which are available over the counter. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate option based on your symptoms and medical history. You can browse the full allergy and hay fever range at Cured Pharmacy to compare available products.

Can Allevia Hives Tablets be taken with alcohol?

The NHS advises caution when combining antihistamines with alcohol, as alcohol can enhance any sedative effects. Although fexofenadine is considered non-drowsy, it is still advisable to avoid or limit alcohol while taking Allevia Hives Tablets. If you are unsure, speak to your pharmacist for personalised advice.

What are the latest studies on fexofenadine for urticaria?

Fexofenadine has been extensively studied for chronic urticaria and is recommended in international urticaria guidelines as a first-line non-sedating antihistamine. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy in reducing itch severity and wheal size with a favourable safety profile. Your GP or dermatologist can advise on the latest treatment guidelines if your hives are difficult to control.

How Should You Use Allevia Hives Tablets?

Allevia Hives Tablets 180mg are taken orally once a day. Always swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water — never crush, break, or chew it. Crucially, do not take the tablet with fruit juice (including grapefruit, orange, or apple juice), as these can significantly reduce how much fexofenadine your body absorbs and make the medicine less effective.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Allevia Hives Tablets?

The dose of Allevia Hives Tablets is straightforward for most people, but it is important to stick to the recommended amount. Taking more than the stated dose will not improve your symptoms more quickly and may increase the risk of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before starting treatment.

When Is the Best Time to Use Allevia Hives Tablets?

You can take Allevia Hives Tablets at any time of day, but consistency matters. Taking your tablet at the same time each day — whether morning, afternoon, or evening — helps maintain a steady level of fexofenadine in your bloodstream, which supports more reliable symptom control throughout the day. Many people find it easiest to take their tablet in the morning alongside breakfast, using water rather than juice.

If you forget to take your tablet at your usual time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one entirely and resume your normal schedule. Never double up on doses.

How Long Can You Use Allevia Hives Tablets For?

Allevia Hives Tablets can be used for as long as your symptoms of chronic urticaria persist. Chronic idiopathic urticaria can last for months or even years in some people, and ongoing antihistamine treatment is often appropriate during this time. That said, you should review your treatment with your GP if you have been using the tablets continuously for several weeks without improvement, or if your symptoms change or worsen.

Your doctor may want to investigate whether there is an underlying cause for your hives or consider additional treatments if antihistamines alone are not providing sufficient relief. Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Allevia Hives Tablets?

Allevia Hives Tablets are generally well tolerated, and most people experience no side effects at all. However, as with any medicine, some people may notice unwanted effects, particularly when first starting treatment. Common side effects — those affecting up to 1 in 10 people — include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness or fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Dry mouth

These effects are usually mild and tend to resolve on their own as your body adjusts to the medicine. Staying well hydrated can help with headaches and dry mouth.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Allevia Hives Tablets?

Less common side effects — affecting up to 1 in 100 people — are less frequently reported but worth being aware of. If you notice any of the following, speak to your pharmacist or GP:

  • Insomnia or disturbed sleep
  • Nervousness or restlessness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash or itching (a paradoxical reaction — stop use and seek advice)
  • Palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeat)

These effects are uncommon, but it is important not to ignore them. If any symptom feels unusual or persistent, always seek professional advice rather than continuing to take the medicine without guidance.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Allevia Hives Tablets?

Serious side effects from fexofenadine are rare, but they can occur. The most significant risk is a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which requires immediate emergency medical attention. Seek urgent help — call 999 or go to your nearest A&E — if you experience any of the following after taking Allevia:

  • Sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • A sudden drop in blood pressure causing dizziness or collapse
  • Severe skin reactions such as widespread blistering or peeling

Do not take another dose if you suspect a serious allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and must be treated immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as headache or nausea, these often improve without any specific treatment. Drinking plenty of water, taking the tablet with food, and resting can all help. If drowsiness occurs — even though fexofenadine is considered non-drowsy — avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you personally.

You can report any suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps regulators monitor the safety of medicines in real-world use. Always tell your pharmacist or GP about any side effects you experience, even if they seem minor.

Can Allevia Hives Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes, fexofenadine can interact with certain other medicines and substances. The most clinically significant interactions include antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide, which should be taken at least two hours apart from Allevia to avoid reduced absorption. Erythromycin (an antibiotic) and ketoconazole (an antifungal) can increase fexofenadine plasma levels, though no additional adverse effects have been confirmed in studies. Fruit juices — particularly grapefruit, orange, and apple — can substantially reduce fexofenadine absorption and should be avoided when taking this medicine. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Allevia Hives Tablets. If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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