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CLARITIN
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Claritin Generic Name: Loratadine
Claritin Classification: Antihistamine
Claritin is used to treat:
Seasonal allergy symptoms (watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes and sneezing)
Hives
(These are common indications for Claritin. There may be additional conditions not listed here. Check with your doctor if you have questions about your specific condition).
General Directions for Taking Claritin:
Take Claritin only as directed. DO NOT take more
Claritin than prescribed.
If you miss a Claritin dose, take the Claritin as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next
Claritin dose, take only 1 dose of Claritin. DO NOT double up the
doses of Claritin. Take Claritin 1-hour before or 2-hours after a meal.
Drink about 1.5 and 2 liters of water per day to help loosen phlegm.
DO NOT take Claritin for several days before allergy tasting. It may interfere with results.
Use sugarless gum or hard candy to help limit dry mouth.
You may notice a color change in your urine. This is normal.
Apply sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater); wear protective clothing; and avoid excessive sunlight exposure. Too much sunlight can provoke photosensitivity reactions.
See your doctor regularly to monitor the effectiveness of
Claritin.
Claritin Contraindications:
Allergies - Hypersensitivity to Claritin or
Claritin components
Use Claritin with caution in:
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding - Claritin may not be safe for your baby. Talk to your doctor about risks and benefits.
Patients with liver dysfunction
Patients taking medications that are broken down primarily in the liver
Common Claritin Side Effects:
May occur during the first few days after beginning therapy, but usually resolve:
Drowsiness, headaches, thirst, blurred vision, dry mouth, dry nose, or discoloration of urine
Serious Claritin Side Effects:
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
Strong, pounding, fast heart beats; irregular heart rhythms; photosensitivity; muscle, joint and back pain; breast tissue pain, decreased sensation in arms and legs; stiff joints; fever; swelling in extremities; leg cramps; and increased weakness or fatigue
Allergic reaction symptoms such as a red skin rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat; wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty breathing
Claritin Interactions:
Drug - There are some medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, which may alter the action of
Claritin. Some include other antihistamines.
It is extremely important that you consult with your doctor about
Claritin dosing schedules if you take a variety of medications along with
Claritin. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.
Food - Delays the absorption rate of Claritin
Claritin Warnings:
Claritin Overdose in Adults - Can lead to somnolence, rapid and irregular heart rhythms, and headaches.
Claritin Overdose in Children - Palpitations and extra-pyramidal signs (tremors; involuntary muscle twitching or spasms; and impaired muscle tone)
Avoid alcoholic beverages. May increase drowsiness effect.
Keep Claritin out of reach of children and pets.
General Claritin Dosage Information:
Claritin dosing is individually based. Talk to your doctor about your specific
Claritin dosing schedule:
Claritin Storage:
Keep Claritin at room temperature.
Protect Claritin from sunlight and moisture. |
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