Desloratadine | Medicine

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Desloratadine is an antihistamine. It relieves the symptoms of allergic conditions.
It is called a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can still cause drowsiness in a few people. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. If you drink alcohol, do so only in moderation, and be aware of its effects on you.

About desloratadine

Type of medicine	Antihistamine (non-drowsy)
Used for	Allergic conditions
Also called	Neoclarityn®
Available as	Tablets and oral solution

Exposure to substances such as pollen, pet fur, house dust or insect bites can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms which can include itchy rashes, sneezing, watery eyes and a runny or blocked nose.

Desloratadine works by stopping the effects of histamine which helps to relieve these symptoms of allergic conditions.

Before taking desloratadine

Before taking desloratadine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
If you have epilepsy.
If you have kidney problems.
If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antihistamine or to any other medicine.

How to take desloratadine

Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
Desloratadine is taken once each day. It may be taken before or after food.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

Desloratadine is not expected to cause you to feel drowsy or less alert, however it can sometimes cause drowsiness in a few people. If you feel sleepy, do not drive or use tools or machines.
If you drink alcohol while you are taking desloratadine, be aware of its effects on you and do not drink more than moderate amounts.

Can desloratadine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine	What can I do if I experience this
Tiredness, drowsiness	If this happens, do not drive or use tools or machines
Dry mouth	Try sucking sugar-free gum or sugar-free sweets
Headache	Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor

If you experience any other symptoms that you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store desloratadine

Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Further reading & references

British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London
Manufacturer's PIL, Neoclarityn® 5 mg film-coated tablets; Manufacturer's PIL, Neoclarityn® 5 mg film-coated tablets, Schering-Plough Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2010.
Manufacturer's PIL, Neoclarityn® 5 mg Oral Solution; Manufacturer's PIL, Neoclarityn® 5 mg Oral Solution, Schering-Plough Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2010.

Original Author: Helen Allen	Current Version: Helen Allen
Last Checked: 07/06/2011	Document ID: 3781 Version: 24	© EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.