Can I take Fexofenadine and Losartan together?

Why this happens

Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that is mostly removed from the body unchanged by the kidneys and liver. Losartan is a blood pressure medication processed by specific liver enzymes (CYP2C9 and CYP3A4). Because they use different pathways in the body and do not affect each other's absorption or action, they do not interfere with one another.

What you should do

You can take both medications as prescribed by your doctor. However, always monitor your blood pressure regularly and be aware that some hay fever symptoms can occasionally feel like the side effects of blood pressure medicine (such as dizziness). If you feel unwell, consult your pharmacist or GP.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

You must not take losartan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby, particularly if used in the second and third trimesters.

Indigestion remedies (antacids)

Do not take indigestion remedies containing aluminium or magnesium within 2 hours of taking fexofenadine. These can lower the amount of medicine your body absorbs.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness or drowsiness, and when combined with blood pressure medicine like losartan, it may cause your blood pressure to drop too low, making you feel faint.

Fruit juices (Grapefruit, Orange, Apple)

Drinking fruit juices, particularly grapefruit, orange, or apple juice, can significantly reduce the amount of fexofenadine absorbed by your body. This makes the medicine less effective. It is best to take fexofenadine with water and avoid drinking these juices for at least 2 hours before or after taking your dose.

Grapefruit juice

Avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice. Grapefruit can prevent your body from breaking down losartan properly, which may increase the risk of side effects.

Potassium-rich foods and salt substitutes

Losartan can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. Avoid using salt substitutes (which often contain potassium) and speak to your doctor before significantly increasing your intake of potassium-rich foods like bananas or spinach. High potassium levels can affect your heart rhythm.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.