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.
