Brand name:

Claritin-D

Why is Claritin-D prescribed?

Claritin-D is an antihistamine and decongestant that relieves the sneezing, runny nose, stuffiness, and itchy, tearing eyes caused by hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies. It also reduces swelling of the nasal passages, temporarily relieves sinus congestion and pressure, and temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose. Two versions are available: Claritin-D 12 Hour for twice-daily dosing and Claritin-D 24 Hour for once-a-day use. Claritin-D is also available as an over-the-counter product.

Most important fact about Claritin-D

If you have liver disease, make sure the doctor is aware of it. Claritin-D is not recommended in this situation.

How should you take Claritin-D?

Take Claritin-D exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not break or chew the tablet. Take the 24-hour variety with a glass of water.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

Claritin-D side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Claritin-D.

• Side effects may include:
  Coughing, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, sleepiness, sore throat

Why should Claritin-D not be prescribed?

Do not take Claritin-D if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of its ingredients.

Avoid Claritin-D if you have the eye condition called narrow-angle glaucoma, very high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease; and do not take the drug if you have difficulty urinating. Also avoid taking Claritin-D within 14 days of taking any drug classified as an MAO inhibitor, including the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.

Do not use Claritin-D 24 Hour if you have trouble swallowing or have been diagnosed with a narrowing of the food canal (esophagus) leading to your stomach.

Special warnings about Claritin-D

If you are taking Claritin-D and experience insomnia, dizziness, weakness, tremor, or unusual heartbeats, tell your doctor; you may be having an allergic reaction.

You must be careful using Claritin-D if you have diabetes, heart disease, an overactive thyroid gland, kidney or liver problems, or an enlarged prostate gland.

Do not use Claritin-D with over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants.

Claritin-D 24 Hour tablets have not been tested for safety in people over 60, but it is known that side effects are more likely in this age group.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Claritin-D

Check with your doctor before combining Claritin-D with any of the following:

Blood pressure medications classified as beta blockers, such as Inderal and Tenormin
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
MAO inhibitors, such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate
Mecamylamine (Inversine)
Methyldopa (Aldomet)
Reserpine

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Claritin-D during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Claritin-D may appear in breast milk. If Claritin-D is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you not to breastfeed until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Claritin-D

ADULTS AND CHILDREN 12 YEARS OF AGE AND OVER

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Claritin-D overdose may include:
  Anxiety, breathing difficulty, chest pain, coma, convulsions, delusions, difficulty urinating, fast, fluttery heartbeat, giddiness, hallucinations, headache, insomnia, irregular heartbeat, nausea, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, sleepiness, sweating, tension, thirst, vomiting, weakness