Common Use

Claritin is an antihistamine used to treat symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, and itching of the nose and throat. It works by blocking histamine in the body. Additionally, it helps relieve swollen, red, and itchy skin caused by hives.

Dosage and Direction

Consult with your doctor before using Claritin. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage.

The recommended dose for adults and children over 6 years old is 10 milligrams once a day, taken as one tablet or two teaspoonfuls of syrup. For patients with liver or kidney disease, the dose is 10 milligrams every other day.

For children aged 2 to 5, the recommended dose is one teaspoonful of syrup once a day. For children with kidney or liver problems, the dose is one teaspoonful every other day.

Note: This information is for review purposes only. Always consult your doctor before using Claritin to achieve the best results.

Precautions

Claritin may cause excessive sleepiness in individuals with liver or kidney disease or older adults and should be used cautiously. It should not be used during pregnancy, while trying to conceive, or while breastfeeding. Always seek medical advice before using Claritin if you are breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Claritin is not recommended for individuals with the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity to Loratadine
• Kidney failure
• Liver failure
• Children under 2 years old
• Breastfeeding or pregnancy

Possible Side Effects

Side effects may include an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Other potential side effects are:

• Fast or uneven heart rate
• Feeling like you might pass out
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Seizures (convulsions)

Less serious side effects include:

• Headache
• Nervousness
• Feeling tired or drowsy
• Stomach pain, diarrhea
• Dry mouth, sore throat, hoarseness
• Eye redness, blurred vision
• Nosebleed
• Skin rash

If you experience any of these side effects, stop using Claritin and consult your doctor immediately. Discuss any unusual symptoms with your healthcare provider.

Drug Interaction

Claritin may interact with medications such as Tagamet and Nizoral. Note that drug interactions do not always require you to stop taking one of the medications. However, they can affect the effectiveness of the drugs. Consult your doctor to manage any potential interactions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Continue with your regular dosing schedule the next day.

Overdose

Symptoms of a Claritin overdose may include headache, rapid heartbeat, and sleepiness. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Storage

Store Claritin at room temperature between 59-77 degrees F (15-25 degrees C), away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use it after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information provides only general details about medications and does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your needs. We disclaim responsibility for the reliability of this information or any errors it may contain. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this information or the consequences of self-treatment.