Drug Name

Clarinex (Desloratadine)

Drug Uses

Clarinex is used for treating the symptoms of allergic conditions (eg, watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes, sneezing, hives). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How Taken

Use Clarinex as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
Take Clarinex by mouth with or without food.
If you miss a dose of Clarinex 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.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Clarinex is an antihistamine. It works by blocking the action of histamine, which reduces the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Clarinex, 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.

Storage

Store Clarinex between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Clarinex out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Some medical conditions may interact with Clarinex . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have had a severe allergic reaction to loratadine
• if you have kidney or liver problems

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Clarinex . However, no specific interactions with Clarinex are known at this time.

Possible Side Effects

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

• Dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; fatigue; headache; indigestion; muscle pain; nausea; painful menstruation; sore throat; throat inflammation; tiredness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

• Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); dark urine; fast or irregular heartbeat; pale stools; seizures; severe stomach pain; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

More Information

Clarinex is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.