Pharmaceutical Content

Recently I was hired by a web development company to write some content for their client’s online pharmacy. What the client needed was specific information for each drug that they offer their customers. Needless to say, the job required a lot of research and fact-checking. Here’s a sample of some of the content I wrote for them:

Allegra

Generic Name: Fexofenadine (fex oh FEN a deen)
Brand Names: Allegra

What is Allegra?

Allegra is an antihistamine. Antihistamines work against the naturally occurring chemical histamine and prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms.

In addition to the antihistamine in Allegra, it also contains the nasal decongestant pseudoephedrine.

Important Information

· Allegra belongs to the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether this medication will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is also not known whether Allegra passes into breast milk. Do not take without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· Allegra is not approved for use by children younger than 6 years of age.

Things to Discuss Before Using

Before taking Allegra tell your doctor if you:

· Have heart disease.

· Have liver disease.

· Have kidney disease.

You may not be able to take this medication, or you may require a special dosage or monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Dosage Method

Use Allegra exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

It is also necessary to follow these dosage directions:

· Take each dose of Allegra with a full glass of water.

· Usually taken twice a day, in the morning and the evening. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

· Do not take an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids may decrease the effects of this medication.

· Never take more of Allegra than is directed by your doctor. If your symptoms are not being adequately treated, talk to your doctor.

· Allegra should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Missed a Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of Allegra.

Overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of an overdose are not well known.

Things to Avoid During Treatment

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium such as Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others.

You may not be able to take this medication, or you may require a special dosage or monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Side Effects

If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) stop taking this medication and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take this medication and talk to your doctor if you experience:

· Nausea or an upset stomach.

· Drowsiness or sleepiness.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effects that seem unusual.