Claritin

Claritin Drug Information

• Claritin Overview

  Claritin is an antihistamine that treats symptoms such as itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing from "hay fever" and other allergies. It is also used to relieve itching from hives. Loratadine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Therefore, if your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always carry your epinephrine injector with you. Do not use loratadine in place of your epinephrine. If you are self-treating with Claritin, it is important to read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully so you know when to consult your doctor or pharmacist. (See also Precautions section.) If you are using the tablets or capsules, do not use in children younger than 6 years unless directed by the doctor. If you are using the liquid or chewable tablets, do not use in children younger than 2 years unless directed by the doctor.

• How to Use Claritin

  If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all the directions on the product package before taking Claritin. If your doctor has prescribed Claritin, follow your doctor's directions and the instructions on your prescription label. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Take Claritin by mouth with or without food, usually once a day or as directed by your doctor or the product package. If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the liquid form of Claritin, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. The Dosage of Claritin is based on your age, condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take Claritin more often than directed. Do not take more of Claritin than recommended for your age. Tell your doctor if your allergy symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. Get medical help right away if your condition worsens or you think you have a serious medical problem (such as a very serious allergic reaction/anaphylaxis).

• Claritin Precautions

  Before taking loratadine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to desloratadine; or if you have any other allergies. Claritin may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using Claritin, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. Do not self-kidney disease, liver disease. Loratadine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses. However, do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. If you have hives and your doctor has prescribed loratadine, or if you are considering using Claritin to treat your own hives,hives that are an unusual color, hives that look bruised or blistered, hives that do not itch. Liquid products or chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using Claritin safely. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Claritin, especially drowsiness, or confusion. These side effects can increase the risk of falling. During pregnancy, Claritin should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking Claritin. Claritin passes into breast milk. However, it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

• Claritin Misdose

  If you miss a dose of Claritin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

• Claritin Interactions

  Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Loratadine is very similar to desloratadine. Do not use medications containing desloratadine while using loratadine. Claritin may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use Claritin.

• Claritin Side Effects

  What are Claritin side effects?

  Side effects are physical, mental or emotional symptoms which occur in addition to or outside of the desired effect of a therapeutic treatment such as an over-the-counter or prescribed drug or medication. Side effects from Claritin may occur at the beginning or at the end of treatment and may also depend on the length of time an individual remains on the treatment. Side effects, also known as adverse effects, are generally more likely to occur when starting treatment. Individuals may also experience side effects from Claritin as a result of an interaction with other medications.

  Side Effects of Claritin

  The side effects of Claritin may vary in number and intensity for many different reasons. Factors such as age, weight, gender and ethnicity may influence the side effects of Claritin. Also, an individual’s state of general physical health and seriousness of the disease or illness as well as an increase or decrease in dosage may lead to side effects. Further, side effects from Claritin may also occur as a result of an interaction with certain herbal supplements, foods or drinks.

  Prescription drug side effects can be serious and may cause patients to stop the treatment. However, when side effects from the use of a prescription drug, such as Claritin, do occur a patient should consult their physician. A physician may prescribe an additional treatment in order to control the symptoms or an adjustment in the dosage may be made. In addition, changes to diet, exercise or other lifestyle activities may help to lessen the side effects of Claritin.

  By understanding side effects and the factors which may influence the occurrence of side effects patients are empowered to take an active role in their care. Patients who have specific questions about the side effects of Claritin, or any other medication, should contact their physician. General information about Claritin and the side effects associated with Claritin are described in the following:

  Common Claritin Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  • headache disorder

  Less Frequent Claritin Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  • drowsy
  • acute abdominal pain
  • conjunctivitis

  Rare or Very Rare Claritin Side Effects

  Severe

  • angioedema
  • anaphylaxis
  • abnormal hepatic function tests

  Less Severe

  • palpitations
  • acute confusion
  • dream disorder
  • blurred vision
  • visual changes
  • tinnitus
  • dry nose
  • urinary incontinence
  • xerostomia
  • skin photosensitivity
  • dizziness
  • hyperhidrosis
  • skin rash
  • weight gain
  • increased appetite
  • dry throat
  • tachycardia
  • dyspnea
  • nervousness
  • insomnia
  • fatigue
  • hyperkinesis
  • voice change
  • malaise
  • epistaxis
  • pharyngitis
  • earache
  • concentration difficulty
  • urinary retention
  • bronchitis
  • cough
  • sedation
  • nausea
  • gastritis
  • alopecia

• Claritin Storage

  Different brands/strengths of Claritin may have different storage requirements. Read the package labeling or ask your pharmacist for the storage requirements for the product you are using. Protect from light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard Claritin when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.