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Nasal Allergy Medications »

Introduction

Although they are the cornerstone of allergy treatment, avoidance measures are not always enough to manage all of the symptoms. When the symptoms of nasal allergies are mild or intermittent, antihistamines with or without decongestants can help. Very often, some relief can be found in taking over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and this is usually the first step an allergy sufferer will take. Self-medication, though, is frequently inadequate since OTC drugs cannot adequately treat the inflammation that develops in the nose. At this stage, anti-inflammatory medications are required, usually in the form of intra- nasal steroid sprays (sprayed into the nose).

The combination of an antihistamine (with or without a decongestant) and a topical nasal steroid spray will usually afford good relief with minimal side effects. The addition of ipratropium bromide nasal spray (Atrovent - an anticholinergic medication) is also very effec...

Read the Nasal Allergy Medications article »

Clarinex

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Clarinex Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Clarinex, Clarinex Reditabs

Generic Name: desloratadine (Pronunciation: DES lor A ta deen)

What is desloratadine (Clarinex)?

Desloratadine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Desloratadine is used to treat the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose. It is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions.

Desloratadine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Clarinex 5 mg

round, blue, imprinted with C5

What are the possible side effects of desloratadine (Clarinex)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;
  • fever, flu symptoms;
  • seizure (convulsions); or
  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious side effects may include:

  • dry mouth, sore throat, cough;
  • muscle pain;
  • drowsiness, tired feeling;
  • nausea, diarrhea; or
  • headache;

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about desloratadine (Clarinex)?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to desloratadine or to loratadine (Claritin).

Before taking desloratadine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver or kidney disease.

Do not give this medication to a child younger than 2 years old without the advice of a doctor.

Desloratadine disintegrating tablets (Clarinex RediTabs) may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of desloratadine if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

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Additional Clarinex Information

Clarinex - User Reviews

Clarinex User Reviews

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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.


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