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.
Tablets
Chemical Name: DESLORATADINE (dess-lor-AT-a-deen)
Before
using
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. 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.
Drug
interactions
Drug interactions can result
in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug
interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other.
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
Carry an identification card
at all times that says you are taking this medicine. 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.
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