The following information is a summary about
CLARINEX. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Tablets
Chemical Name: DESLORATADINE (dess-lor-AT-a-deen)
Common uses
This medicine is an
antihistamine used to treat the symptoms of hay fever and other
allergic conditions such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes,
and sneezing. It may also be used to treat hives. This medicine may
also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Before using
Some medicines or
medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR
DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter
medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other
medical conditions including kidney or liver disease, allergies,
pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Directions
Follow the
directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This
medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS
MEDICINE between 32 and 77 degrees F (2 and 25 degrees C) in a
tightly closed container, away from heat and moisture. IF YOU MISS A
DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you are using it regularly, take it as
soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the
missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take
2 doses at once.
Cautions
IF YOU HAVE HAD A
SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION to loratadine, contact your doctor or
pharmacist BEFORE TAKING THIS MEDICINE. A severe reaction includes a
severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you
have a question about whether you are allergic to this medicine,
contact your doctor or pharmacist. THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE
DIZZINESS. DO NOT DRIVE, OPERATE MACHINERY, OR DO ANYTHING ELSE THAT
COULD BE DANGEROUS until you know how you react to this medicine.
Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol,
may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially
dangerous tasks. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either
prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or
pharmacist. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss
with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine
during pregnancy. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. DO NOT
BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
Possible side effects
SIDE EFFECTS, that
may go away during treatment, include throat inflammation, muscle
pain, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth or throat. If they continue or
are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR
IMMEDIATELY if you experience a rapid or pounding heartbeat. If you
notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse,
or pharmacist.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions
can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing
its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your
medicines interact with each other.
If you take too much
If overdose is
suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency
room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, and
fast heartbeat.
Additional information
If your symptoms do
not improve or if they become worse, contact your doctor. DO NOT
SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO
NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS
MEDICINE out of the reach of children and pets. IF USING THIS
MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your
supply runs out.