Desloratadine is an antihistamine.

Uses

Antihistamines work by preventing the effects of a substance called histamine, which is produced by the body. Histamine can cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. Also, in some persons histamine can close up the bronchial tubes (air passages of the lungs) and make breathing difficult. Histamine can also cause some persons to have hives, with severe itching of the skin.

Precautions

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

This medicine may cause some people to become drowsy, dizzy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert.

Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

1. Anaphylaxis, such as, cough, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, fast heartbeat, hives, itching, puffiness or swelling of eyelids or around the eyes or face or lips or tongue, shortness of breath, skin rash, tightness in chest, unusual tiredness or weakness, wheezing
2. dyspnea, such as, shortness of breath, difficult or labored breathing, tightness in chest, wheezing
3. edema, such as, swelling
4. pruritus, such as, itching skin
5. rash
6. tachycardia, such as, fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
7. urticaria, such as, hives or welts, itching, redness of skin, skin rash.

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

1. Headache

Less common

1. Dizziness
2. dry mouth
3. dysmenorrhea, such as, difficult or painful menstruation
4. dyspepsia, such as, acid or sour stomach, belching, heartburn, indigestion, stomach discomfort , upset or pain,
5. fatigue, such as, unusual tiredness or weakness
6. myalgia, such as, joint pain, swollen joints, muscle aching or cramping, muscle pains or stiffness, difficulty in moving
7. pharyngitis, such as, body aches or pain, congestion, cough, dryness or soreness of throat, fever, hoarseness, runny nose, tender swollen glands in neck, trouble in swallowing, voice changes.
8. somnolence, such as, sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
9. nausea

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Dosing

• For symptoms of chronic hives and hay fever:
  • Adults and children 12 years of age and older—5 milligrams (mg) once a day.
  • Children 6 to 11 years of age—2.5 mg once a day.
  • Children 4 to 6 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • Children and infants up to 4 years of age—Use is not recommended.

Disclaimer: Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.