Claritine General Information
Claritine is an antihistamine that treats symptoms such as itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing from "hay fever" and other allergies. It is also used to relieve itching from hives.
Claritine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a serious allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis). Therefore, if your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always carry your epinephrine injector with you. Do not use Claritine in place of your epinephrine.
If you are self-treating with Claritine, it is important to read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully so you know when to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not use Claritine in children younger than 6 years unless directed by the doctor. If you are using the chewable tablets, do not use in children younger than 2 years unless directed by your doctor.
How to Use Claritinee
If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all the directions on the product package before taking Claritine. If your doctor has prescribed Claritine, follow your doctor's directions and the instructions on your prescription label. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take Claritine by mouth with or without food, usually once a day or as directed by your doctor or the product package. If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. Dosage is based on your age, condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take Claritine more often than directed. Do not take more of Claritine than recommended for your age.
Tell your doctor if your allergy symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. Seek immediate medical attention if your condition worsens or you think you have a serious medical problem (e.g., very serious allergic reaction/anaphylaxis).
Claritinee Possible Side Effects
Claritine usually has no side effects. If you have any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
A very serious allergic reaction to Claritine is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Claritinee Precautions
Before taking Claritine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to desClaritine; or if you have any other allergies. Claritine may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using Claritine, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. Do not self-treat with Claritine without consulting your doctor first if you have certain medical conditions such as: kidney disease, liver disease.
Claritine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses. However, do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.
If you have hives and your doctor has prescribed Claritine, or if you are considering using Claritine to treat your own hives, tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these other symptoms because they may be signs of a more serious condition: hives that are an unusual color, hives that look bruised or blistered, hives that do not itch.
The chewable tablets may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist about using Claritine safely.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Claritine, especially drowsiness, or confusion. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.
During pregnancy, Claritine should be used only when clearly needed and as directed by your doctor. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking Claritine.
Claritine passes into breast milk. However, it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Claritinee Possible Intercations
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Claritine is very similar to desClaritine. Do not use medications containing desClaritine while using Claritine.
Claritine may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use Claritine.