Desloratadine helps relieve symptoms of cold and allergy such as runny nose, itch, watery eyes, and sneezing.
This medicine may also help relieve allergic skin conditions such as hives and itchy rash.
Take Desloratadine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Desloratadine is available as a conventional tablet, orodispersible tablet, oral solution or syrup.
If you are taking the conventional tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water.
If you are taking the orodispersible tablet:
- Remove it from the foil only just before you take it. Do not leave the orodispersible tablet exposed to air. Do not push the orodispersible tablet through the foil as it is fragile and easily broken.
- Remove the orodispersible tablet with dry hands by peeling the backing off the foil and tipping the tablet onto your dry hands.
- Place the orodispersible tablet directly on your tongue as soon as it is taken out of the foil. The orodispersible tablet will immediately start to melt on the tongue. It can then be swallowed with or without water.
Do not cut, break, or crush the orodispersible tablets.
If you are taking an oral solution or syrup, use the measuring device (e.g. spoon, oral syringe) provided to measure your dose.
You may stop taking Desloratadine once you feel better unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- personal or family history of fits or seizures
- kidney disease
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Desloratadine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
If you are going to have certain diagnostic tests (e.g. skin test), inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine.
Desloratadine may cause any of the following side effects: tiredness, headache, dry mouth, and sore throat.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain antibiotics e.g. erythromycin, azithromycin
- ketoconazole (medicine to treat fungal infection)
- fluoxetine (medicine to treat depression)
- cimetidine (medicine used to reduce stomach acid production)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Desloratadine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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