Desloratadine
Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis, Perennial Allergic Rhinitis ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Histamine-1 Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Desloratadine
Summary
Desloratadine is used to treat allergies, including perennial allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis, and chronic idiopathic urticaria, which is long-term itching.
Desloratadine works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. This chemical causes symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
The usual dosage and administration route for Desloratadine is not specified in the document. Please consult your doctor for this information.
Common side effects of Desloratadine include sore throat, dry mouth, muscle aches, fatigue, and drowsiness. Rare but serious side effects include allergic reactions, fast or irregular heartbeat, seizures, and liver problems.
Desloratadine is not safe for people who are allergic to it or its ingredients. It can cause serious allergic reactions. It is also not recommended for pregnant women unless absolutely necessary. If you experience severe side effects, stop taking the medication and seek medical help immediately.
Indications and Purpose
How does Desloratadine work?
Desloratadine is a long-acting antihistamine that selectively blocks H1-receptors, preventing histamine from causing allergic symptoms. It reduces symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itching by inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells.
Is Desloratadine effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Desloratadine effectively relieves symptoms of allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. It reduces nasal and non-nasal symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching, and decreases the number and size of hives. The medication is well-tolerated and provides symptom relief for 24 hours.
What is Desloratadine?
Desloratadine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, as well as symptoms of chronic hives. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions. Desloratadine provides 24-hour relief and is typically taken once daily.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Desloratadine?
Desloratadine is typically used for as long as allergy symptoms persist. For seasonal allergies, it may be used during the allergy season, while for perennial allergies, it can be used year-round. Always follow your doctor's guidance on the duration of use.
How do I dispose of Desloratadine?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Desloratadine?
Desloratadine can be taken with or without food, and there are no specific food restrictions while using this medication. Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor, and use a proper measuring device for liquid forms. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
How long does it take for Desloratadine to start working?
Desloratadine typically starts working within one hour of taking the dose. It provides relief from allergy symptoms for up to 24 hours, making it effective for once-daily dosing.
How should I store Desloratadine?
Store Desloratadine at room temperature, between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and away from moisture and heat. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the usual dose of Desloratadine?
For adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose of Desloratadine is one 5 mg tablet once daily. For children aged 6 to 11 years, the typical dose is 2.5 mg once daily, and for those aged 1 to 5 years, it is 1.25 mg once daily. Always follow your doctor's advice for the correct dosage.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Desloratadine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Desloratadine passes into breast milk, so a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the medication. Consider the benefits of breastfeeding for the child and the benefits of the medication for the mother. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can Desloratadine be taken safely while pregnant?
Desloratadine is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using Desloratadine while pregnant.
Can I take Desloratadine with other prescription drugs?
Desloratadine may interact with certain medications, such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, and fluoxetine, which can increase its plasma concentration. However, these interactions do not significantly alter the safety profile of Desloratadine. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Does Desloratadine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Desloratadine can cause some adverse effects, though they are usually mild. Common ones include headache, fatigue, dry mouth, and sore throat. Serious adverse effects are rare but may include allergic reactions like rash, itching, or swelling. If you experience any new or severe symptoms, it's important to contact your healthcare provider. Always talk to your doctor before stopping any medication.
Does Desloratadine have any safety warnings?
Desloratadine has some safety warnings. It may cause drowsiness in some people, so be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. If you have liver or kidney problems, consult your doctor before using it, as it may require dose adjustments. Watch for signs of an allergic reaction, like rash or swelling, and seek medical help if they occur. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is Desloratadine addictive?
Desloratadine has no known potential for dependence or addiction. It is not habit-forming, so you don't need to worry about becoming addicted to it. You can use it as directed by your healthcare provider without concern for addiction.
Is Desloratadine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients should use Desloratadine with caution, as they may have decreased liver, kidney, or heart function, which can affect how the body processes the medication. It's important for elderly patients to follow their doctor's dosage recommendations and report any unusual side effects.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Desloratadine?
Drinking alcohol while taking Desloratadine does not significantly affect the safety or effectiveness of the medication. However, caution is advised as alcohol can increase the risk of drowsiness, which is a potential side effect of Desloratadine. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Desloratadine?
Desloratadine does not typically limit the ability to exercise. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or fatigue, it may temporarily affect your exercise routine. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while taking this medication.
Is it safe to stop Desloratadine?
Desloratadine is typically used for symptomatic relief of allergies, not for managing chronic conditions. Stopping it suddenly is generally safe, as it doesn't cause withdrawal or rebound symptoms. However, if you stop taking it, your allergy symptoms may return. It's always a good idea to consult with your doctor before stopping any medication to ensure it's the right decision for your health.
What are the most common side effects of Desloratadine?
A side effect is an unwanted effect caused by a medicine. Common side effects of Desloratadine include headache, fatigue, dry mouth, sore throat, and dizziness. These effects are usually mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. It's important to remember that new symptoms can occur when starting any new medicine and may not be related to the medicine itself. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Desloratadine?
Desloratadine is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug or its ingredients. Caution is advised for those with liver or kidney impairment. If you experience severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing or swelling, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
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