Brand name: Clarinex

Generic name: Desloratadine

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

• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Clarinex may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What is Clarinex?

• Clarinex is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms.

• Clarinex is used to treat the symptoms of allergies.

• Clarinex may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Clarinex?

• Before taking Clarinex, tell your doctor if you have

o    ever had an allergic reaction to an antihistamine;

o    kidney disease; or

o    liver disease.

• You may not be able to take Clarinex, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

• Clarinex is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Clarinex will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Clarinex without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

• Clarinex passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Clarinex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Clarinex?

• Take Clarinex exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

• Take each regular tablet with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

• Place a Clarinex orally-disintegrating-tablets (Clarinex Reditabs) on the tongue and allow it dissolve. The tablet will disintegrate rapidly. Swallow with or without water. Take the Clarinex orally-disintegrating tablets immediately after removal from the blister packaging. Do not store for later use.

• Clarinex can be taken with or without food.

• Clarinex is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

• Never take more of this medication than directed. If your symptoms do not improve, talk to your doctor.

• Store Clarinex at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avoid exposing the medication to temperatures above 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius ).

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

• Symptoms of a Clarinex overdose are not well known but may include drowsiness.

What should I avoid while taking Clarinex?

• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Clarinex may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What are the possible side effects of Clarinex?

• If you experience any of the following rare but serious side effects, stop taking Clarinex and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

o    an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

o    irregular or fast heartbeats.

• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Clarinex and talk to your doctor if you experience

o    drowsiness or dizziness;

o    nausea;

o    dry mouth or throat; or

o    muscle aches.

• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Clarinex?

• There are no known interactions between Clarinex and other medications. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, during treatment with Clarinex.