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

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 36 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. Do not exceed the recommended dose without checking with your doctor. 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. This includes cough-and-cold products that may contain other antihistamines.

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, fatigue, indigestion, or dry mouth. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience a rapid or pounding heartbeat. Desloratidine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses and under normal circumstances. However, be sure of the drug's effects before engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

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.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. 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.