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Telfast

Telfast

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  • ✔️ Relieves sneezing, itching, and runny nose from hay fever
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula — safe for driving and daily tasks
  • ✔️ Once-daily 120mg fexofenadine tablet for 24-hour relief
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Clinically proven second-generation antihistamine for allergic rhinitis

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What Are Telfast Hay Fever Tablets?

 

If sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and a constantly runny nose are making your day miserable, you are not alone. Hay fever affects around one in five people in the UK, and finding a reliable, non-drowsy solution matters. Telfast hay fever tablets contain fexofenadine hydrochloride — a second-generation antihistamine that tackles allergy symptoms without the heavy, sedating feeling that older antihistamines can cause. Available in 120mg strength for adults and children aged 12 and over, Telfast is a trusted option for seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Whether your symptoms flare up during the grass pollen season in summer or tree pollen season in spring, Telfast offers once-daily relief that fits around your routine. You can explore our full range of allergy and hay fever treatments if you need additional support alongside your antihistamine.

 

How Does Telfast Work to Relieve Allergy Symptoms?

 

Telfast works by selectively blocking histamine H1 receptors throughout the body. When you are exposed to an allergen — pollen, dust mites, or pet dander — your immune system releases histamine, which binds to these receptors and triggers the familiar cascade of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and nasal congestion. Fexofenadine steps in and occupies those receptors before histamine can, effectively interrupting that reaction.

  • Fexofenadine is absorbed into the bloodstream after oral ingestion
  • It selectively binds to peripheral H1 histamine receptors
  • It does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, which is why it causes minimal sedation
  • Symptom relief typically begins within one to three hours and lasts up to 24 hours

 

Who Is Telfast Suitable For?

 

Telfast is suitable for most adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who experience seasonal allergic rhinitis. It is particularly well-suited to people who need to stay alert — drivers, students, and those in demanding work environments — because of its low sedation profile. That said, it is not appropriate for everyone.

  • Adults and children aged 12 and over with hay fever or allergic rhinitis
  • People who have experienced drowsiness with older antihistamines such as chlorphenamine
  • Those who need once-daily dosing for convenience
  • Individuals looking for a non-prescription option to manage seasonal allergy symptoms

It is not recommended for children under 12, and caution is needed in people with kidney problems, as fexofenadine is primarily excreted via the kidneys.

 

How Does Telfast Compare to Other Antihistamines?

 

Feature Telfast (Fexofenadine 120mg) Cetirizine 10mg
Generation Second-generation Second-generation
Sedation risk Very low Low to moderate in some people
Dosing frequency Once daily Once daily
Suitable age 12 years and over 6 years and over (lower doses)

 

How Should You Store Telfast and Is It Suitable Long-Term?

 

Store Telfast tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you are managing persistent or year-round allergic symptoms, it is worth speaking to your GP about whether ongoing antihistamine use is appropriate for your situation. You might also find our eye care range helpful if itchy, watery eyes are a significant part of your allergy symptoms.

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.

Telfast specifications
Treatment category Antihistamine / Allergy relief
Mechanism of action Selective peripheral H1 histamine receptor antagonist
Effective for Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Fexofenadine hydrochloride
Strengths 120mg
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class Second-generation antihistamine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Telfast

 

What Is Telfast and What Is It Used For?

 

Telfast is a non-drowsy antihistamine tablet used to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. Its active ingredient, fexofenadine hydrochloride 120mg, works by blocking the action of histamine — the chemical your body releases in response to allergens such as pollen, dust, or animal dander. Symptoms it helps to relieve include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, a runny or blocked nose, and itching of the throat or skin.

Telfast hay fever tablets are licensed for use in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. They are taken once daily and are classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning they are available without a prescription but should be purchased from a registered pharmacy.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Telfast?

 

Before taking Telfast, it is important to check whether it is appropriate for you. There are certain situations where you should not take it, and others where extra care is needed.

Do not take Telfast if you:

  • Are allergic to fexofenadine hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless advised by a doctor
  • Have severe kidney impairment (without medical supervision)

Take care and speak to your pharmacist or GP if you:

  • Have kidney problems — fexofenadine is renally excreted and dose adjustment may be needed
  • Have heart disease or a history of arrhythmia
  • Are taking other medicines, particularly those listed below

Known drug interactions:

  • Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide — take Telfast at least 2 hours before or after these
  • Erythromycin and ketoconazole — may increase fexofenadine plasma levels
  • Fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple) — significantly reduce absorption; always take with water

 

How Should You Use Telfast?

 

Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Taking Telfast correctly ensures you get the most from each dose.

  1. Take one 120mg tablet once daily
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water — not fruit juice
  3. Take it at roughly the same time each day to maintain consistent symptom control
  4. Do not crush or chew the tablet
  5. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but skip it if your next dose is due soon. Never double up.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Seasonal allergic rhinitis Adults and children 12+ 120mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Chronic idiopathic urticaria Adults and children 12+ 180mg (separate product) Once daily

If you are also managing skin-related allergy symptoms, our skin care range includes topical options that may complement your antihistamine treatment.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Telfast?

 

Like all medicines, Telfast can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most are mild and resolve on their own.

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

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness (less common than with first-generation antihistamines)

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

  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Nervousness

Serious allergic reactions to fexofenadine are rare but can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a severe skin rash. Stop taking Telfast immediately and seek emergency medical help if any of these occur.

 

How Should You Store Telfast?

 

Correct storage keeps your tablets effective for their full shelf life. Follow these simple guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Store out of 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 are travelling and need to manage hay fever symptoms on the go, take a look at our travel health range for additional support products.

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 Telfast hay fever tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Telfast hay fever tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. Simply add the product to your basket and complete a brief health check at checkout. We dispatch quickly so you can start managing your symptoms without delay.

How does Telfast work in the body?

Telfast contains fexofenadine hydrochloride, which selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors. When allergens like pollen trigger your immune system, histamine is released — fexofenadine prevents it from binding to those receptors and causing symptoms. Because it does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, it causes far less sedation than older antihistamines.

How long does Telfast take to start working?

Most people notice symptom relief within one to three hours of taking a Telfast tablet. The effects typically last for up to 24 hours, which is why it is taken just once a day. For best results, try to take it at the same time each day throughout the allergy season.

What is the correct dose of Telfast for adults?

The standard dose for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over is one 120mg tablet taken once daily. Always swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water — not fruit juice. Do not take more than the recommended dose unless directed by a doctor.

Can I take Telfast every day during hay fever season?

Yes, Telfast is designed for daily use throughout the hay fever season. It is safe to take continuously while your symptoms persist, provided you follow the dosage instructions. If you find you need it year-round, speak to your GP to rule out other underlying allergy conditions.

Is Telfast safe to take if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Telfast is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless a doctor has specifically advised it. The safety of fexofenadine in these situations has not been fully established. Always consult your GP or midwife before taking any antihistamine if you are pregnant or nursing.

Who should not take Telfast?

Telfast is not suitable for children under 12, people with a known allergy to fexofenadine, or those with severe kidney impairment without medical supervision. It should also be used with caution in people with heart conditions or those taking certain antibiotics or antifungals. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure.

What are the side effects of Telfast and how do I manage them?

Common side effects include headache, nausea, and dizziness, which are usually mild and short-lived. Taking the tablet with food may help reduce nausea. If you experience a severe allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash — stop taking Telfast and seek emergency medical help immediately.

Can I take Telfast with other medicines?

Telfast can interact with antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide, so leave at least two hours between taking these and your Telfast dose. Erythromycin and ketoconazole may increase fexofenadine levels in the blood. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking.

Why should I take Telfast with water and not fruit juice?

Grapefruit, orange, and apple juices contain compounds that significantly reduce the absorption of fexofenadine, meaning you may not get the full benefit of your dose. Water is the only recommended drink to take Telfast with. This is one of the most important — and often overlooked — instructions for this medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose of Telfast?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless your next scheduled dose is approaching, in which case skip the missed one entirely. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one. Consistent daily dosing gives the most reliable symptom control.

How does Telfast compare to loratadine and cetirizine?

All three are second-generation antihistamines taken once daily, but fexofenadine (Telfast) is generally considered the least likely to cause drowsiness. Cetirizine can cause mild sedation in some people, and loratadine sits somewhere in between. Your pharmacist can help you decide which suits your lifestyle and symptom profile best — you can also browse our full allergy and hay fever range to compare options.

Can Telfast be used for skin allergies or hives?

Fexofenadine 180mg (a separate, higher-strength product) is licensed for chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives) in adults. The 120mg Telfast tablets are specifically indicated for seasonal allergic rhinitis. If you are dealing with persistent skin reactions, speak to your GP about the most appropriate treatment.

How long can I keep taking Telfast?

Telfast can be taken throughout the hay fever season, which typically runs from late March to September in the UK depending on which pollens affect you. If your symptoms persist beyond the season or worsen over time, consult your GP. Long-term use should be reviewed periodically by a healthcare professional.

What are the latest findings on fexofenadine for hay fever?

Fexofenadine remains one of the most widely studied second-generation antihistamines, with a well-established safety and efficacy profile supported by decades of clinical use. Current NHS guidance continues to recommend it as a first-line non-drowsy option for allergic rhinitis. If you are also experiencing eye symptoms, our eye care range includes antihistamine eye drops that can be used alongside oral treatment.

How Should You Use Telfast?

Telfast tablets are straightforward to take, but following the correct method ensures you absorb the full dose and get reliable symptom relief. Always read the patient information leaflet before starting treatment, and speak to your pharmacist if you have any questions.

What Is the Correct Dose of Telfast?

The recommended dose of Telfast for seasonal allergic rhinitis is one 120mg tablet once daily. This applies to adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. There is no approved dose for children under 12 for this product, and exceeding the stated dose does not improve symptom control.

When Is the Best Time to Use Telfast?

There is no strict requirement to take Telfast at a specific time of day, but consistency matters. Many people find it easiest to take it in the morning, before they are likely to encounter pollen — particularly useful on high pollen count days. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain steady levels in your system and reduces the chance of missing a dose.

If you are planning outdoor activities or know you will be exposed to high allergen levels, taking your tablet an hour or two beforehand gives the medicine time to reach effective levels before symptoms are triggered.

How Long Can You Use Telfast For?

Telfast can be used throughout the hay fever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March through to September, depending on which pollens trigger your symptoms. Grass pollen season peaks between May and July, while tree pollens are more prevalent in spring. You can take Telfast daily for the duration of your symptomatic period.

If you find your symptoms persist outside the typical season, or if you need antihistamines year-round, it is worth discussing this with your GP. Prolonged use should be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

How Should You Use Telfast?

Telfast tablets are straightforward to take, but following the correct method ensures you absorb the full dose and get reliable symptom relief. Always read the patient information leaflet before starting treatment, and speak to your pharmacist if you have any questions.

What Is the Correct Dose of Telfast?

The recommended dose of Telfast for seasonal allergic rhinitis is one 120mg tablet once daily. This applies to adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. There is no approved dose for children under 12 for this product, and exceeding the stated dose does not improve symptom control.

When Is the Best Time to Use Telfast?

There is no strict requirement to take Telfast at a specific time of day, but consistency matters. Many people find it easiest to take it in the morning, before they are likely to encounter pollen — particularly useful on high pollen count days. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain steady levels in your system and reduces the chance of missing a dose.

If you are planning outdoor activities or know you will be exposed to high allergen levels, taking your tablet an hour or two beforehand gives the medicine time to reach effective levels before symptoms are triggered.

How Long Can You Use Telfast For?

Telfast can be used throughout the hay fever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March through to September, depending on which pollens trigger your symptoms. Grass pollen season peaks between May and July, while tree pollens are more prevalent in spring. You can take Telfast daily for the duration of your symptomatic period.

If you find your symptoms persist outside the typical season, or if you need antihistamines year-round, it is worth discussing this with your GP. Prolonged use should be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains the most appropriate treatment for your needs.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Telfast?

Telfast is generally well tolerated, and most people experience no side effects at all. However, as with any medicine, some people may notice mild reactions, particularly when first starting treatment. These common effects affect up to 1 in 10 people and usually resolve without any intervention.

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

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Telfast?

Less common side effects affect fewer than 1 in 100 people. They are generally mild but worth being aware of, particularly if you are taking Telfast for the first time or have recently changed your dose.

  • Dry mouth
  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
  • Nervousness or restlessness
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Palpitations (awareness of your heartbeat)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Telfast?

Serious side effects from fexofenadine are rare, but they do occur in a very small number of people. The most significant concern is a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis or hypersensitivity reaction). Symptoms to watch for include sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a widespread skin rash or hives, and a sudden drop in blood pressure causing faintness.

If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Telfast, stop the medicine immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department. Do not attempt to drive yourself.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as headache or nausea, these often improve after the first few days of treatment. Taking the tablet with a light meal may help reduce stomach discomfort. If side effects persist or become bothersome, speak to your pharmacist — they may be able to suggest an alternative antihistamine that suits you better.

You can also report 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.

Can Telfast Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes, Telfast has a small number of known interactions that are clinically relevant. Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide can reduce the absorption of fexofenadine — leave at least two hours between taking these products. The antibiotics erythromycin and the antifungal ketoconazole have been shown to increase plasma levels of fexofenadine, which may heighten the risk of side effects. Fruit juices — particularly grapefruit, orange, and apple — reduce absorption significantly and should always be avoided when taking this medicine.

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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