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desloratadine - oral, Clarinex

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GENERIC NAME: DESLORATADINE - ORAL (des-lor-AT-uh-deen)

BRAND NAME(S): Clarinex

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Desloratadine is an antihistamine that provides relief of seasonal allergy symptoms and allergic nasal conditions (rhinitis) such as runny nose, sneezing, and watery/itching eyes. It may also be used to treat hives.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth once a day or as directed by your doctor.Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed.Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results may be affected.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Throat discomfort, muscle pain, nausea, indigestion, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, trouble sleeping, nosebleeds, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Desloratadine 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.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if this unlikely but serious side effect occurs: rapid or pounding heartbeat.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occurs: dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: 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.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.