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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. |