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Showing posts with label Allergy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Allergy. Show all posts

Zyrtec (Cetirizine)

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Synonyms: Ceticad, Neuosil, Zetecet, Zetect, Alerlisin, Formistin, Reactine, Setir, Virlix, Zyrlex
 

What is the most important information I should know about Zyrtec?

  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zyrtec may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
  • Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Zyrtec.
  • While you are taking Zyrtec, do not take other prescription or over-the-counter cough, cold, or allergy medications without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

What is Zyrtec?

  • Zyrtec is an antihistamine. Zyrtec blocks the actions of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body. Zyrtec is less likely than some other antihistamines to cause side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
  • Zyrtec is used to treat the symptoms of allergies such as sneezing; runny nose; itching, tearing, and redness of the eyes; and hives.
  • Zyrtec may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zyrtec?

  • Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to it or to the medication hydroxyzine (Atarax, Vistaril).
  • Before taking Zyrtec, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease. You may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
  • Zyrtec is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
  • Zyrtec passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
  • If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Zyrtec. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.

How should I take Zyrtec?

  • Take Zyrtec exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
  • Take the tablets with a full glass of water.
  • Chew the chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
  • To ensure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of Zyrtec with a dose-measuring spoon, cup, or dropper, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
  • Zyrtec can be taken with or without food.
  • Store Zyrtec at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

  • If you are taking Zyrtec on a regular schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.
  • If you are taking Zyrtec as needed, take the missed dose if it is needed, then wait the recommended or prescribed amount of time before taking another dose.

What happens if I overdose?

  • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
  • Symptoms of a Zyrtec overdose are not well known but may include drowsiness.

What should I avoid while taking Zyrtec?

  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zyrtec may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
  • Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Zyrtec.
  • Zyrtec may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness or dizziness, including antidepressants, alcohol, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and other antihistamines. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
  • While you are taking Zyrtec, do not take other prescription or over-the-counter cough, cold, or allergy medications without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

What are the possible side effects of Zyrtec?

  • Stop taking Zyrtec and seek emergency medical attention if you experience a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
  • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Zyrtec and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • drowsiness;
    • dizziness;
    • headache; or
    • dry mouth.
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Zyrtec?

  • Zyrtec may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness or dizziness, including antidepressants, alcohol, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and other antihistamines. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
  • While you are taking Zyrtec, do not take other prescription or over-the-counter cough, cold, or allergy medications without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zyrtec. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Spiriva (Tiotropium)

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What is the most important information I should know about Spiriva?

Spiriva is not intended for use during acute bronchospastic attacks (sudden occurrence of difficulty breathing). It may not be able to open your airways and allow you to breath. Tiotropium is used to prevent attacks, it should not be used as a rescue medication.

It is very important that you use the tiotropium inhaler properly, so that the medicine gets into the lungs. Talk to your healthcare provider about proper inhaler use.

In rare cases, Spiriva has been associated with the development of narrow-angle glaucoma, an eye disorder. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms suggestive of narrow-angle glaucoma such as eye pain or discomfort, blurred vision, visual halos around objects, color distortion, or redness of the eyes. Do not allow the powder to come into contact with the eyes. This may cause blurring of vision and dilation of the pupils. If contact with the eyes occurs, flush with water and seek medical attention if side effects occur.

What is Spiriva?

Spiriva is an anticholinergic medication. Tiotropium prevents narrowing of the airways.

Spiriva is used in the treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Spiriva may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Spiriva?

Do not use Spiriva without first talking to your doctor if you have:

•an allergy to ipratropium (Atrovent, Combivent) or atropine;

•narrow-angle glaucoma;

•kidney disease;

•enlargement of the prostate; or

•difficulty urinating.

You may not be able to use Spiriva, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Spiriva is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Spiriva without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether tiotropium passes into breast milk. Do not use Spiriva without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Spiriva?

Use Spiriva exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Tiotropium capsules are intended for use in the inhaler provided. Do not swallow the capsules. Do not use the inhaler device to administer any medications other than tiotropium.

The tiotropium capsules should be stored in the sealed blisters and only removed immediately before use. The drug should be used immediately after the packaging over an individual capsule is opened, or else its effectiveness may be reduced. If additional capsules are accidentally exposed to air, they should be thrown away and not used.

Separate a blister card along the perforated line. Carefully peel back the aluminum foil using the tab until one capsule is fully visible. Peel back the foil only as far as the "STOP" line printed on the foil to prevent exposure of more than one capsule. After using the first capsule, the 2 remaining capsules in the blister strip should be used over the next 2 consecutive days.

To use the inhaler:

•Open the dust cap on the inhaler device by pulling it upwards. Then, open the mouthpiece. Insert the capsule in the center chamber. It does not matter which end of the capsule is placed in the chamber. Close the mouthpiece firmly until you hear a click, leaving the dust cap open.

•Hold the inhaler device with the mouthpiece upwards and press the piercing button completely in one time and release. This makes holes in the capsule and allows the medication to be released when you breathe in through the mouthpiece.

•Breathe out fully, away from the mouthpiece. Never breathe into the mouthpiece.

•Raise the inhaler to your mouth and close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece. Keep your head in an upright position and breathe in slowly and deeply but at a rate sufficient to hear the capsule vibrate. Breathe in until your lungs are full. Hold your breath as long as is comfortable and at the same time take the inhaler out of your mouth. Resume normal breathing.

•To ensure you get the full dose, breathe out once again, place the inhaler back in your mouth, and breathe in deeply again.

•After completing a dose, open the mouthpiece and tip out the used capsule and dispose. Close the mouthpiece and dust cap for storage of the inhaler.

Spiriva is usually used once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions. Do not use more of the medication or use it more often than is directed.

The tiotropium capsules contain only a small amount of powder and as a result the capsule is only partially filled. After using a dose, you may notice that a tiny amount of the powder is left in the capsule. This is normal.

It is very important that you use the tiotropium inhaler properly, so that the medicine gets into the lungs. Talk to your healthcare provider about proper inhaler use.

It is important to use Spiriva regularly to get the most benefit.

Spiriva is not intended for use during acute bronchospastic attacks (sudden occurrence of difficulty breathing). It may not be able to open your airways and allow you to breath. Tiotropium is used to prevent attacks, it should not be used as a rescue medication.

Your doctor may want you to have lung function tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with Spiriva to monitor progress and side effects.

Normally, during a one-month period of use, the inhaler device does not need to be cleaned. However, if cleaning is necessary, open the dust cap and mouth piece. Open the base by lifting the piercing button. Rinse the entire inhaler with warm water to remove any powder. Do not use cleaning agents or detergents. Tip out any water and air-dry, leaving the dust cap, mouthpiece and base open. It takes about 24 hours to air dry, so if cleaning is needed, do it immediately following a dose so it will be ready for the next dose. Do not use the inhaler if it is wet. The outside of the inhaler can be cleaned with a damp, not wet, tissue.

Store Spiriva at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store the capsules, unopened, in the blister packaging. Do not store the capsules in the inhaler.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a tiotropium overdose may include altered mental status, shaking, abdominal pain, and constipation.

What should I avoid while using Spiriva?

Do not allow the powder to come into contact with the eyes. This may cause blurring of vision and dilation of the pupils. If contact with the eyes occurs, flush with water and seek medical attention if side effects occur.

What are the possible side effects of Spiriva?

In rare cases, Spiriva has been associated with the development of narrow-angle glaucoma, an eye disorder. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms suggestive of narrow-angle glaucoma such as eye pain or discomfort, blurred vision, visual halos around objects, color distortion, or redness of the eyes. If you experience either of the following serious side effects, stop using Spiriva and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

•an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

•increased difficulty breathing.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Spiriva and talk to your doctor if you experience

•dry mouth;

•constipation;

•difficult or painful urination; or

•increased heart rate.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Spiriva?

Before using Spiriva, talk to your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

•ipratropium (Atrovent);

•albuterol and ipratropium (Combivent, DuoNeb);

•dicyclomine (Bentyl),

•propantheline (Pro-Banthine),

•mepenzolate (Cantil),

•methscopolamine (Pamine), and

•scopolamine (Transderm-Scop).

You may not be able to use Spiriva, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Spiriva or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Periactin (Cyproheptadine)

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Synonyms: Apt, Biolactin, Ciplactin, Dronactin, Eiproheptadine, Periactinol, Peritol

What is the most important information I should know about Periactin?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Periactin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

•Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Periactin.

What is Periactin?

Periactin is an antihistamine. Periactin blocks the effects of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in your body.

Periactin is used to treat sneezing; runny nose; itching, watery eyes; hives; rashes; itching; and other symptoms of allergies and the common cold.

•Although not approved by the FDA for this purpose, Periactin has been used to stimulate appetite in underweight patients.

Periactin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take Periactin?

•Do not take Periactin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A very dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

•Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

◦glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye;

◦a stomach ulcer;

◦an enlarged prostate, bladder problems, or difficulty urinating;

◦an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism);

◦hypertension or any type of heart problems; or

◦asthma.

•You may not be able to take Periactin, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Periactin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Periactin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

Periactin passes into breast milk. Infants are especially sensitive to the effects of antihistamines, and serious side effects could occur in a nursing baby. Periactin is not recommended if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not take Periactin without first talking to your doctor if you are nursing a baby.

•If you are over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Periactin. You may require a lower dose of this medication.

How should I take Periactin?

•Take Periactin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

•Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Periactin can be taken with or without food.

•To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the syrup form of Periactin with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

•Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. The maximum amount of Periactin that you should take in 1 day is 32 mg.

•Store Periactin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

•Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

•Seek emergency medical attention.

•Symptoms of a Periactin overdose include extreme sleepiness, confusion, weakness, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, large pupils, dry mouth, flushing, fever, shaking, insomnia, hallucinations, and possibly seizures.

What should I avoid while taking Periactin?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Periactin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

•Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Periactin.

What are the possible side effects of Periactin?

•Stop taking Periactin and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

•Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Periactin and talk to your doctor if you experience

◦sleepiness, fatigue, or dizziness;

◦headache;

◦dry mouth; or

◦difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate.

•Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Periactin?

•Do not take Periactin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A very dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

•Talk to your pharmacist before taking other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or insomnia medications. These products may contain medicines similar to Periactin, which could lead to an overdose of antihistamine.

•Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

◦anxiety or sleep medicines such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), temazepam (Restoril), or triazolam (Halcion);

◦medications for depression such as amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), or paroxetine (Paxil); or

◦any other medications that make you feel drowsy, sleepy, or relaxed.

•Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Periactin. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
 

Lioresal (Baclofen)

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Synonyms: Riclofen, Kemstro

What is the most important information I should know about Lioresal?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Lioresal may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

•Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Lioresal.

•Do not stop taking Lioresal suddenly. Stopping suddenly may cause seizures or hallucinations. Your doctor will want to gradually reduce you dose.

What is Lioresal?

Lioresal is a muscle relaxant and an antispastic agent. The exact way that Lioresal works is unknown.

Lioresal is used to relieve the muscle spasms, pain, and muscular rigidity associated with multiple sclerosis.

Lioresal may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Lioresal?

•Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

◦kidney disease or

◦epilepsy or another seizure disorder.

•You may not be able to take Lioresal, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Lioresal is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Lioresal will harm an unborn baby. Do not take Lioresal without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

•It is also not known whether Lioresal passes into breast milk. Do not take Lioresal without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Lioresal?

•Take Lioresal exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

•Take each dose with a full glass of water.

•You can take Lioresal with or without food.

•Do not stop taking Lioresal suddenly. Stopping suddenly could cause seizures or hallucinations. Talk to your doctor first if you need to stop taking this medication.

•Store Lioresal at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

•Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

•Seek emergency medical treatment.

•Symptoms of a Lioresal overdose include vomiting, weakness, drowsiness, slow breathing, seizures, unusual pupil size, and coma.

What should I avoid while taking Lioresal?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Lioresal may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

•Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Lioresal.

What are the possible side effects of Lioresal?

•If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Lioresal and seek emergency medical attention:

◦an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

◦seizures; or

◦an irregular heartbeat.

•Other, less serious side effects are more likely to occur. Continue to take Lioresal and talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following:

◦drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, or unusual fatigue;

◦a headache;

◦constipation;

◦stuffy nose;

◦blurred vision;

◦a rash; or

◦frequent urination.

•Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Lioresal?

•Many drugs can increase the effects of Lioresal, which can lead to heavy sedation. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

◦antihistamines such as brompheniramine (Dimetane, Bromfed, others), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton, Teldrin, others), azatadine (Optimine), clemastine (Tavist), and many others;

◦narcotics (pain killers) such as meperidine (Demerol), morphine (MS Contin, MSIR, others), propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet), hydrocodone (Lorcet, Vicodin), oxycodone (Percocet, Percodan), fentanyl (Duragesic), and codeine (Fiorinal, Fioricet, Tylenol #3, others);

◦sedatives such as phenobarbital (Solfoton, Luminal), amobarbital (Amytal), and secobarbital (Seconal);

◦phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), mesoridazine (Serentil), perphenazine (Trilafon), prochlorperazine (Compazine), thioridazine (Mellaril), and trifluoperazine (Stelazine); or

◦antidepressants such as doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), phenelzine (Nardil), and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

•Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Lioresal. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
 

Claritin (Loratadine)

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Synonyms: Cozy, Loratidin, Loridin Reptab, Aerotina, Alarin, Alavert, Alerpriv, Allertidin, Bedix Loratadina, Biloina

What is the most important information I should know about Claritin?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Claritin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What is Claritin?

Claritin is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms.

Claritin is used to treat allergies, hives (urticaria), and other allergic inflammatory conditions.

Claritin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Claritin?

•Before taking Claritin, tell your doctor if you have

◦ever had an allergic reaction to an antihistamine;

◦kidney disease; or

◦liver disease.

•You may not be able to take Claritin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

•The Alavert brand of Claritin orally-disintegrating tablets contain 8.4 mg phenylalanine per tablet. Individuals with phenylketonuria may need to monitor their intake of this additive.

Claritin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Claritin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

Claritin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Claritin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Claritin?

•Take Claritin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

•Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

•Do not crush, chew, or break the regular Claritin tablets. Swallow them whole.

•Place the Claritin rapidly-disintegrating-tablets (Claritin Reditabs, Alavert) on the tongue and allow them to dissolve. The tablet will disintegrate rapidly. Swallow with or without water.

•To ensure the correct dose, measure the syrup form of Claritin with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Claritin is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

•Never take more of this medication than directed. If your symptoms do not improve, talk to your doctor.

•Store Claritin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Use the Claritin rapidly-disintegrating-tablets (Claritin Reditabs) within 6 months of opening the laminated foil pouch, and immediately upon opening the individual tablet blisters.

What happens if I miss a dose?

•Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

•Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

•Symptoms of a Claritin overdose include headache, drowsiness, irregular heartbeat, nausea, and vomiting.

What should I avoid while taking Claritin?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Claritin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What are the possible side effects of Claritin?

•If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Claritin and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

◦an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

◦an irregular heartbeat; or

◦seizures.

•Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Claritin and talk to your doctor if you experience

◦drowsiness or dizziness;

◦headache;

◦nervousness;

◦nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort;

◦dry mouth;

◦dry skin or itchiness; or

◦discoloration of urine.

•Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Claritin?

•There are no known interactions between Claritin and other medications. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, during treatment with Claritin.
 

Clarinex (Desloratadine)

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Synonyms: Desloratine, Dloratin, Aerius, Alavert, Claritin, Desloratidine, Loratadine

What is the most important information I should know about Clarinex?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Clarinex may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What is Clarinex?

Clarinex is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms.

Clarinex is used to treat the symptoms of allergies.

Clarinex may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Clarinex?

•Before taking Clarinex, tell your doctor if you have

◦ever had an allergic reaction to an antihistamine;

◦kidney disease; or

◦liver disease.

•You may not be able to take Clarinex, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Clarinex is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Clarinex will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Clarinex without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

Clarinex passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Clarinex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Clarinex?

•Take Clarinex exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

•Take each regular tablet with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

•Place a Clarinex orally-disintegrating-tablets (Clarinex Reditabs) on the tongue and allow it dissolve. The tablet will disintegrate rapidly. Swallow with or without water. Take the Clarinex orally-disintegrating tablets immediately after removal from the blister packaging. Do not store for later use.

Clarinex can be taken with or without food.

Clarinex is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

•Never take more of this medication than directed. If your symptoms do not improve, talk to your doctor.

•Store Clarinex at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avoid exposing the medication to temperatures above 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius ).

What happens if I miss a dose?

•Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

•Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

•Symptoms of a Clarinex overdose are not well known but may include drowsiness.

What should I avoid while taking Clarinex?

•Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Although unlikely, Clarinex may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What are the possible side effects of Clarinex?

•If you experience any of the following rare but serious side effects, stop taking Clarinex and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

◦an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

◦irregular or fast heartbeats.

•Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Clarinex and talk to your doctor if you experience

◦drowsiness or dizziness;

◦nausea;

◦dry mouth or throat; or

◦muscle aches.

•Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Clarinex?

•There are no known interactions between Clarinex and other medications. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, during treatment with Clarinex.