The
following information is a summary about
Claritin-D.
It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Claritin-D USES
Claritin-D (Loratadine) is an antihistamine that provides
relief from symptoms of seasonal and allergic rhinitis
(e.g., hay fever) such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching
eyes and sneezing. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that
relieves congestion, promotes sinus draining and improves
breathing.
Claritin-D DIRECTIONS
Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do
not chew or crush the tablet, as doing so will destroy
the long action and may increase the side effects. Do not
increase the dose or take Claritin-D more frequently than
prescribed
Claritin-D SIDE EFFECTS
Claritin-D may cause difficulty in sleeping, dry mouth,
mild stomach upset, headache, nervousness, dizziness, loss
of appetite or thirst. These effects should subside as
your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or
become bothersome, inform your doctor. Claritin-D (Loratadine)
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. Notify your doctor if you develop: heart
pounding, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, ringing in the
ears, difficulty urinating. An allergic reaction to this
drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention
if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your
doctor or pharmacist.
Claritin-D PRECAUTIONS
If you have glaucoma, diabetes, difficulty urinating, an
enlarged prostate gland, heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory
disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid gland
or have serious difficulty in swallowing, do not use this
drug unless your doctor knows of your medical condition.
Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify drug side effects.
This drug should be used only if clearly needed during
pregnancy. It is not known if this medication is found
in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Claritin-D DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription
medication you may take, especially of: high blood pressure
drugs, antidepressants, sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers,
muscle relaxants, other cold or allergy medicines. Do not
take this drug if you have taken an MAO inhibitor (e.g.,
furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
within the last two weeks. Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Claritin-D OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose
may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, shakiness, sweating,
insomnia, hallucinations, rapid or irregular heartbeat,
and seizures.
Claritin-D NOTES
Do not share Claritin-D with others. Inform all your doctors
you use (or have used) Claritin-D.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, use Claritin-D as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed
dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the
dose to catch up.
Claritin-D STORAGE
Store Claritin-D at room temperature between 36 and 77
degrees F (2 -25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
