Why is Clarinex prescribed?

Desloratadine is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms, including sneezing; runny nose; and red, itchy, tearing eyes. It is also used to treat hives. Desloratadine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Desloratadine may cause less drowsiness than other antihistamines.

How should Clarinex be used?

Desloratadine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take desloratadine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Other uses for Clarinex

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking desloratadine,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to desloratadine, loratadine (Clarinex), or any other medications.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking desloratadine, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Clarinex cause?

Desloratadine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• upset stomach
• dizziness
• sore throat
• dry mouth
• muscle pain
• extreme tiredness
• painful menstruation

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptom is uncommon, but if you experience it , call your doctor immediately:

• difficulty breathing

Desloratadine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

What storage conditions are needed for Clarinex?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.