Aerius General Information
Aerius is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.
How to Use Aerius
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking Aerius and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take Aerius by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
If you are using the rapidly-dissolving tablet, allow the tablet to dissolve on the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. Do not remove the tablet from the blister pack until right before using. If you are using the liquid form of Aerius, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take Aerius more often than directed.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Aerius Possible Side Effects
Sore throat, nausea, tiredness, stomach upset, or muscle pain may occur. Fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or trouble sleeping may also occur, especially in children. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed Aerius because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Aerius do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to Aerius is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Aerius Precautions
Before taking Aerius, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to loratadine; or if you have any other allergies. Aerius may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using Aerius, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease.
Aerius 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.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Liquid products and the rapidly-dissolving tablets may contain sugar. The rapidly-dissolving tablets may also contain aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using Aerius safely.
During pregnancy, Aerius should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Aerius passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Aerius 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.
Aerius is very similar to loratadine. Do not use medications containing loratadine while using Aerius.
Aerius 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 Aerius.