Allegra

Fexofenadine is an oral, “second generation” antihistamine that is used to treat the signs and symptoms of allergy that are due to histamine. It is similar to the other second generation antihistamines loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and azelastine (Astelin). Histamine is a chemical that is responsible for many of the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, for example, swelling of the lining of the nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and then attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine. The attachment of the histamine to the receptors causes the cell to be “activated,” releasing other chemicals that produce the effects that we associate with allergy, e.g., sneezing. Fexofenadine blocks one type of receptor for histamine (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of H1 receptor-containing cells by histamine. Unlike the first generation antihistamines, fexofenadine and other second-generation antihistamines do not readily enter the brain from the blood, and, therefore, they cause less drowsiness. Fexofenadine was approved by the FDA in July, 1995.

The onset of action for Allegra was observed at one hour in a controlled clinical trial. Additional studies demonstrated that allergy sufferers continued feeling relief throughout the 12-hour dosing period. Also, two-week trials showed that Allegra provided significant symptom relief throughout the full course of therapy.

n one-on-one interviews with 700 Americans, roughly 23 percent reported loaning their prescription medications to someone else, and 27 percent reported borrowing prescription medications.

The medications most frequently shared (loaned or borrowed) were allergy drugs like Allegra (25 percent), followed by pain medications like Darvoset and OxyContin (22 percent); and antibiotics like amoxicillin (21 percent).

Seven percent of those interviewed said they shared mood-altering drugs like Paxil, Zoloft, Ritalin and Valium. A little more than 6 percent said they shared the prescription anti-acne drug Accutane and about 5 percent shared birth control pills.

The Grand Mercure Allegra Apartments in Hervey Bay is offering travellers who book five consecutive nights at the hotel and additional two nights for free when they choose to stay between May 1st and June 20th 2008 (excluding school holidays and subject to availability).*

Rates start from just $185 per apartment per night.

As Queensland’s unofficial capital for whale watching and as the gateway to World Heritage listed Fraser Island, Hervey Bay is one of Australia’s favourite holiday havens. The area is also famous for its broad bays and beaches ideal for fishing, sailing, swimming and a range of other water sports.

With a prime location opposite the beach and just five minutes from the commercial centre of Hervey Bay, the contemporary-designed AAA 5-star rated Grand Mercure features 49 luxury beachfront apartments.

Each Grand Mercure Allegra apartment makes the most of its superb position, with alfresco terraces and folding tropical shutters taking full advantage of the temperate coastal climate and most with magnificent views. Apartments offer designer kitchens, indulgent spa baths in master suites and quality zoned air conditioning to ensure year round comfort.  A full range of leisure facilities are available for guests including a heated lagoon style pool, gym and sauna, and lavish garden surrounds, with the stylish Esplanade restaurant offering poolside dining.