Claritin-D is administered for the relief of hay fever and allergy symptoms, including sneezing, runny nose, and red, itchy, tearing eyes. Claritin-D belongs to the antihistamine category of medications. The function of Claritin-D is based on blocking histamine, a bodily substance which causes allergic symptoms. Claritin-D is usually associated with less drowsiness than other antihistamines. Claritin-D is administered orally in the form of a tablet. The 12 Hour Tablet is taken twice a day (every 12 hours). The 24 Hour Tablet is taken once daily with a full glass of water. The tablets should not been broken and should be taken whole.
Warnings Precautions
Consult your doctor if you have asthma or other lung diseases; diabetes; thyroid problems; glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye; urinary retention or an enlarged prostate; narrowing of the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract or difficulty swallowing; kidney or liver disease; or heart disease, high blood pressure, or an irregular heartbeat before taking Claritin-D. If you suffer from any of the above-listed conditions, dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment may be necessary, or Claritin-D may not be allowed at all. Claritin-D is in the B FDA pregnancy category meaning harmful side effects on the fetus are not expected. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, do not take Claritin-D without first talking to your doctor. Claritin-D is passed onto breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Claritin-D is not recommended for children younger than 12 years of age.
Missing a Dose
In case of missing a dose, take the medication as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule if it is almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at the same time.
Possible Side Effects
Serious side effects are not likely to occur during treatment with Claritin-D. Stop taking Claritin-D and contact your doctor or seek medical help immediately in case of any of the following side effects: an allergic reaction (difficulty in breathing; throat congestion; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); an irregular heartbeat; or seizures. Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. If you experience dizziness; headache; insomnia; nervousness; nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort; dry mouth; dry skin or itchiness; or discoloration of urine, continue to take Claritin-D and talk to your doctor. Other side effects may also occur. If any of the side effects appear unusual or are especially irritating, consult your doctor.
Storage
Do not expose Claritin-D to light and store in a dry place. Store between 15-25?°C (59-77?°F).
Overdose
In case of an overdose, seek medical help immediately. Headaches, drowsiness, an irregular heartbeat, nausea and vomiting, sweating, increased thirst, weakness, and restlessness are among the symptoms of a Claritin-D overdose.
More Information
Claritin-D may cause dizziness. Avoid hazardous activities and exercise caution when driving, operating machinery.
Claritin-D resources:
http://www.drugs.com/Claritin-D_24HR/
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/loratd.htm
http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/SAFETY/1998/clarit.htm
Related posts: