This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Common side effects of fexofenadine
These common side effects of fexofenadine happen in more than 1 in 100 people.
There are things you can do to help cope with them:
Feeling sick
Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food.
Feeling sleepy
Try a different non-drowsy antihistamine. If this does not help, talk to your doctor.
Do not drive, ride a bike or operate tools or machinery until you feel better, and fully alert and awake.
Headaches
Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. It's best not to drink alcohol. Take an everyday painkiller like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Talk to your doctor if they are severe or do not go away.
Feeling dizzy
If fexofenadine makes you feel dizzy, stop what you're doing and sit or lie down until you feel better, then get up slowly.
Do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery. Speak to your doctor if the dizziness gets worse or does not go away.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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