Why is this medication prescribed?

Clarinex is a brand name for the drug desloratadine, which belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines. It is primarily prescribed to relieve symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergies (allergic rhinitis) such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines:

• Dosage: The typical dose for adults and children 12 years and older is 5 mg once daily.
• Administration: Clarinex is usually taken orally, with or without food.
• Duration: It is taken on a regular basis to be effective in controlling allergy symptoms.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor of any allergies you have, especially to antihistamines.
• Medical conditions: Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, particularly liver disease, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking Clarinex.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Clarinex for comprehensive information on its usage, potential side effects, and precautions.

Other uses for this medicine

• Chronic Urticaria (Hives): Clarinex may be used to relieve symptoms of chronic hives, including itching and rash.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: It can be effective in treating symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, such as itchy and watery eyes.
• Other Allergic Conditions: In some cases, Clarinex may be used to manage symptoms of other allergic conditions where antihistamines are beneficial.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Clarinex:

• Liver Function: Individuals with severe liver disease should use Clarinex with caution, as the drug is metabolized in the liver. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in such cases.
• Renal Impairment: Although desloratadine is primarily eliminated through the liver, patients with severe renal impairment should also use Clarinex cautiously, as there is a potential for increased exposure to the drug.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s important to discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While Clarinex is generally considered safer than some older antihistamines, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered based on individual circumstances.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Clarinex generally does not cause drowsiness like some older antihistamines, but some individuals may still experience mild sedation. If you experience any drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Clarinex affects you.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Clarinex, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Clarinex for detailed information regarding its uses, precautions, interactions, and potential side effects specific to your situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions or instructions associated with Clarinex. It can generally be taken with or without food.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

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

What side effects can this medication cause?

Clarinex (desloratadine) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects in some people. Common side effects of Clarinex may include:

• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are a commonly reported side effect.
• Dry Mouth: Some individuals may experience a dry sensation in the mouth.
• Fatigue: Mild tiredness or fatigue can occur in some users.
• Sore Throat: Occasionally, Clarinex may cause irritation or discomfort in the throat.
• Muscle Pain: Muscle pain or myalgia has been reported in some cases.
• Dizziness: Mild dizziness or lightheadedness may occur, although Clarinex is generally less sedating than older antihistamines.

Less common but more serious side effects that should be reported to a doctor include:

• Allergic Reactions: Such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Liver Problems: Symptoms like yellowing of the eyes/skin, dark urine, or persistent nausea/vomiting.
• Fast/irregular heartbeat.
• Mental/mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations).

If you experience any severe side effects or any other symptoms that concern you while taking Clarinex, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Clarinex:

• Storage: Store Clarinex tablets at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused Clarinex tablets according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention or call your local emergency services (such as 911).
• Overdose: Symptoms of Clarinex overdose may include drowsiness, rapid heartbeat, or headache. If you or someone else may have taken too much Clarinex, contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) or seek emergency medical attention.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-Up: Follow up with your doctor regularly to monitor your response to Clarinex and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Clarinex, as it can increase the risk of certain side effects such as dizziness.
• Medical Alerts: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (including dentists and pharmacists) that you are taking Clarinex. This is important to prevent potential interactions with other medications or treatments.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known allergy to desloratadine or similar antihistamines, avoid taking Clarinex.
• Self-Care: Continue to manage your allergies by avoiding triggers and taking other precautions recommended by your doctor, in addition to taking Clarinex.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and the medication guide provided with Clarinex for specific guidance tailored to your individual health needs and circumstances. If you have any questions or concerns about Clarinex or its use, consult your healthcare provider.