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

  Claritin usually has no side effects. If you have any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. A very serious allergic reaction to Claritin is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction,rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

  List of Claritin side effects

• 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.