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Telfast Antihistamine Tablets 180mg Tablets (30)

Telfast Antihistamine Tablets 180mg Tablets (30)

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  • ✔️ Relieves hay fever sneezing, itching, and runny nose daily
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula — suitable for driving and work
  • ✔️ Starts working within one hour of taking a dose
  • ✔️ Once-daily tablet provides up to 24 hours of allergy relief
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over

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What Is Telfast and Does Fexofenadine 180mg Relieve Allergies?

 

If hay fever or persistent allergic symptoms are making your daily life miserable, Telfast Antihistamine Tablets 180mg could be exactly what you need. Each tablet contains fexofenadine 180mg — a second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamine licensed in the UK for the relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives) in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. Unlike older antihistamines, fexofenadine is far less likely to make you feel sleepy, which means you can get on with your day without that foggy, sluggish feeling. You can explore the full range of allergy and hay fever treatments available at Cured Pharmacy if you want to compare your options.

Telfast is manufactured by Sanofi and is available over the counter in the UK without a prescription. A pack of 30 tablets costs £19.99, giving you a full month's supply when taken once daily. It's a well-established treatment that has been used widely across Europe and the UK for many years.

 

How Does Telfast Work to Block Allergy Symptoms?

 

Allergic reactions happen when your immune system overreacts to a harmless substance — pollen, dust mites, pet dander — and releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine then binds to H1 receptors throughout your body, triggering the familiar cascade of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and a runny nose. Telfast works by selectively blocking those H1 receptors, preventing histamine from causing these effects.

  • Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist
  • It does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, which is why it causes minimal sedation
  • It begins to work within one hour of taking a dose
  • Symptom relief typically lasts for up to 24 hours from a single tablet

 

Who Should Use Telfast 180mg Tablets?

 

Telfast 180mg is suitable for a wide range of people dealing with allergy-related conditions. It's particularly useful if you've tried older antihistamines and found them too sedating, or if you need to stay alert at work or while driving. That said, it's not right for everyone — always read the label and check with your pharmacist if you're unsure.

  • Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over with seasonal allergic rhinitis
  • Adults experiencing chronic idiopathic urticaria (persistent hives without a clear cause)
  • People who need a non-drowsy antihistamine for daytime use
  • Those with allergies to pollen, dust mites, or pet dander

 

How Does Telfast 180mg Compare to Other Antihistamines?

 

Feature Telfast 180mg (Fexofenadine) Cetirizine 10mg
Sedation risk Very low Low to moderate
Dosing frequency Once daily Once daily
Suitable for driving Generally yes Use with caution
Onset of action Within 1 hour Within 1 hour

 

Is Telfast Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

 

Many people with seasonal allergies take fexofenadine 180mg throughout the entire hay fever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March through to September. It can be used daily for the duration of your allergy season without significant concerns about tolerance or dependency. If you have year-round allergies — for example, to dust mites or pets — speak to your GP or pharmacist about whether continuous use is appropriate for you. If you also suffer from eye symptoms alongside your hay fever, you might find it helpful to browse eye care products to complement your antihistamine treatment.

Store Telfast tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.

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 Antihistamine Tablets 180mg (30) specifications
Treatment category Allergic rhinitis, chronic idiopathic urticaria
Mechanism of action Selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist
Effective for Hay fever, hives, dust and pet allergies
Suitable for Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Fexofenadine hydrochloride 180mg
Pack size 30 tablets
Strength 180mg
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class Second-generation antihistamine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Telfast Antihistamine Tablets 180mg (30)

 

What Is Telfast 180mg and What Is It Used For?

 

Telfast 180mg tablets contain fexofenadine hydrochloride, a non-sedating antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. Seasonal allergic rhinitis — more commonly known as hay fever — causes sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes, and an itchy throat or palate. Chronic idiopathic urticaria causes itchy, raised welts on the skin that appear without an obvious trigger. Telfast helps to control these symptoms by blocking the action of histamine in the body.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Telfast 180mg?

 

Before taking Telfast, it's important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not take this medicine 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 (the 180mg strength is not licensed for children under 12)
  • You have severe kidney (renal) impairment — seek medical advice first
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — consult your GP or pharmacist before use

The following medicines may interact with Telfast and affect how well it works or increase the risk of side effects:

  • Erythromycin (an antibiotic) — may increase fexofenadine levels in the blood
  • Ketoconazole (an antifungal) — may increase fexofenadine levels in the blood
  • Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide — can reduce absorption of fexofenadine; leave at least 2 hours between taking these and Telfast
  • Fruit juices (grapefruit, orange, apple) — significantly reduce absorption; always take with water only

 

How Should You Use Telfast 180mg Tablets?

 

Always take Telfast exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Take one tablet once daily
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew
  3. Do not take with fruit juice; water only
  4. Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent symptom control
  5. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose
  6. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Seasonal allergic rhinitis Adults & adolescents ≥12 years 180mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Chronic idiopathic urticaria Adults & adolescents ≥12 years 180mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Children under 12 Under 12 years Not recommended at this strength

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Telfast 180mg?

 

Like all medicines, Telfast can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. If you experience anything that concerns you, speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also find additional support through our ear, nose and throat product range if you need complementary relief.

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

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness (though less common than with older antihistamines)
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue or tiredness

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

  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
  • Nervousness or anxiety
  • Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash or itching

Serious allergic reactions to fexofenadine are rare but possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction.

 

How Should You Store Telfast 180mg Tablets?

 

Correct storage helps ensure the tablets remain effective for the full duration of their shelf life. If you're managing multiple allergy products at home, it's worth keeping everything organised and within date. You might also want to look at our wider allergy and hay fever range for additional products to keep in your medicine cabinet.

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

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 180mg online in the UK?

You can buy Telfast 180mg tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy in the UK. Simply add the pack of 30 tablets to your basket and choose your preferred delivery option at checkout. It's available without a prescription as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so no GP visit is needed.

How does fexofenadine 180mg work in the body?

Fexofenadine is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks histamine from attaching to H1 receptors in the body. This prevents the chain reaction that causes allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Because it doesn't readily cross the blood-brain barrier, it causes very little sedation compared to older antihistamines.

How do I take Telfast 180mg step by step?

Take one Telfast 180mg tablet once a day, swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Never take it with fruit juice — grapefruit, orange, and apple juice all significantly reduce how much fexofenadine your body absorbs. Try to take it at the same time each day for consistent symptom control throughout your allergy season.

What is the best time of day to take Telfast 180mg?

There is no single "best" time, but many people find taking it in the morning works well, especially if pollen counts are highest during the day. Taking it at a consistent time each day helps maintain steady levels of fexofenadine in your system. If you find morning doses cause any mild side effects, try switching to the evening and see if that suits you better.

How do I manage side effects of Telfast 180mg?

Most side effects of Telfast — such as headache or mild nausea — are temporary and tend to settle within a few days of starting treatment. Staying well hydrated and taking the tablet with food (but not fruit juice) may help reduce nausea. If side effects persist or feel severe, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Who is eligible to take Telfast 180mg tablets?

Telfast 180mg is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who have seasonal allergic rhinitis or chronic idiopathic urticaria. It is not recommended for children under 12 at this strength, and people with severe kidney impairment should seek medical advice before use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their GP or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What happens if I miss a dose of Telfast 180mg?

If you forget to take your tablet, 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 the following day. Never take two tablets at once to compensate for a missed dose, as this will not improve symptom relief and may increase the risk of side effects.

How does Telfast 180mg compare to cetirizine for hay fever?

Both are second-generation antihistamines taken once daily, but fexofenadine has a lower risk of causing drowsiness than cetirizine, which can cause mild sedation in some people. Cetirizine is generally cheaper and widely available, while Telfast is often preferred by those who need to drive or operate machinery. The right choice depends on your individual response — some people find one works better for their specific symptoms than the other.

Can I take Telfast 180mg every day during hay fever season?

Yes, Telfast 180mg is designed for daily use throughout the allergy season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on which pollens affect you. There is no evidence of tolerance developing with regular use, so it remains effective when taken consistently. If your symptoms persist beyond the expected season, speak to your GP to rule out other causes.

Is Telfast 180mg safe to take if I have kidney problems?

Fexofenadine is primarily excreted by the kidneys, so if you have moderate to severe renal impairment, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking Telfast. A lower dose or alternative treatment may be more appropriate in that case. Mild kidney problems are generally less of a concern, but it's always worth checking with a healthcare professional if you're unsure.

Can I drive after taking Telfast 180mg?

Telfast is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine and is generally considered safe to drive after taking it, as fexofenadine has a low sedation profile. However, a small number of people may still experience dizziness or drowsiness, so you should assess how the medicine affects you personally before driving. If you feel at all impaired, do not drive or operate heavy machinery.

Can I take Telfast 180mg with other allergy medicines?

You should not take Telfast alongside other oral antihistamines, as this increases the risk of side effects without providing additional benefit. It can, however, be used alongside nasal corticosteroid sprays or antihistamine eye drops for more complete allergy symptom control. Always check with your pharmacist before combining any medicines — you can also browse our eye care range for suitable complementary products.

What are the alternatives to Telfast 180mg for hay fever?

Common alternatives include cetirizine, loratadine, and acrivastine — all second-generation antihistamines available over the counter in the UK. For more severe or persistent symptoms, your GP may recommend a nasal corticosteroid spray such as fluticasone or beclometasone. You can explore the full range of allergy and hay fever treatments at Cured Pharmacy to find the right option for you.

How long does it take for Telfast 180mg to start working?

Telfast typically begins to relieve allergy symptoms within one hour of taking a dose. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within approximately 1 to 3 hours, and the effects last for up to 24 hours, making once-daily dosing sufficient for most people. For best results during high pollen days, take your tablet before you head outdoors.

What are the latest findings on fexofenadine for allergic rhinitis?

Fexofenadine remains one of the most widely studied and recommended non-sedating antihistamines for allergic rhinitis, with a well-established safety and efficacy profile supported by decades of clinical use. Current NHS and NICE guidance continues to recommend second-generation antihistamines like fexofenadine as a first-line treatment for hay fever. No significant new safety concerns have emerged in recent years, reinforcing its suitability for regular seasonal use.

How Should You Use Telfast 180mg Tablets?

Using Telfast correctly makes a real difference to how well it controls your allergy symptoms. Always follow the instructions on the pack or as directed by your pharmacist. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to taking Telfast safely and effectively:

What Is the Correct Dose of Telfast 180mg?

The standard dose of Telfast for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over is one 180mg tablet taken once daily. There is no separate loading dose required — simply start with one tablet on your first day of treatment. The table below summarises the recommended dosing by indication and age group.

When Is the Best Time to Use Telfast 180mg?

Telfast can be taken at any time of day, but consistency is key. Taking it at the same time each day — whether morning or evening — helps keep fexofenadine levels steady in your bloodstream, which means more reliable symptom control. Many people prefer to take it in the morning before heading outside, particularly on high pollen days. If you find morning doses cause any mild stomach upset, try switching to an evening dose instead.

It is worth noting that Telfast should always be taken with water, not fruit juice. Grapefruit, orange, and apple juice can all reduce the amount of fexofenadine your body absorbs by up to 36%, significantly reducing its effectiveness.

How Long Can You Use Telfast 180mg For?

Telfast is suitable for use throughout the allergy season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September, depending on which pollens trigger your symptoms. You can take it daily for the full duration of your season without concerns about the medicine becoming less effective over time. For year-round allergies — such as those caused by dust mites or pet dander — speak to your GP or pharmacist about whether continuous daily use is appropriate for your situation. If your symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment, or if they worsen, seek medical advice.

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

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Telfast 180mg?

Most people who take Telfast 180mg tolerate it very well, and serious side effects are uncommon. That said, like all medicines, it can cause unwanted effects in some people. The most frequently reported side effects are generally mild and tend to resolve on their own without needing to stop treatment.

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness (less common than with older antihistamines, but possible)
  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Fatigue or tiredness

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Telfast 180mg?

A smaller number of people may experience side effects that are less frequently reported. These are still worth being aware of, particularly if you are starting Telfast for the first time. If any of the following persist or feel troublesome, speak to your pharmacist.

  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
  • Nervousness or feelings of anxiety
  • Tachycardia (a faster than normal heartbeat)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash or itching unrelated to your allergy

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Telfast 180mg?

Serious side effects from fexofenadine are rare but can occur. The most significant concern is a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which, while uncommon, requires immediate medical attention. Stop taking Telfast and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin reactions such as widespread blistering or peeling
  • Chest tightness or palpitations that feel severe

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Telfast?

If you notice mild side effects such as a headache or nausea, try taking your tablet with food (but not fruit juice) and ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Most mild effects settle within the first few days as your body adjusts. If side effects are persistent, worsening, or affecting your quality of life, stop taking the tablets and consult your pharmacist or GP. You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Telfast 180mg Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes, certain medicines can interact with fexofenadine and either increase or decrease its effectiveness. Erythromycin (an antibiotic) and ketoconazole (an antifungal) can both raise fexofenadine levels in the blood, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium hydroxide can reduce absorption — leave at least two hours between taking these and your Telfast tablet. Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking before starting Telfast.

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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