Clarinex is an antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis).

If you have liver or kidney disease, your doctor should cut your starting dose in half.

Clarinex (desloratadine) is an oral, long-acting antihistamine that is similar chemically to loratadine (Claritin). It is used to treat the symptoms caused by histamine. Histamine is a chemical that is responsible for many of the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, for example, swelling of the lining of the nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and then attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine. The attachment of the histamine to the receptors causes the cell to be

Clarinex can be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as directed.

If you miss a dose of Clarinex: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next Clarinex dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

Storage instructions for Clarinex: Store at room temperature. Protect from heat.

The possibility that Clarinex could harm a developing baby has not been completely ruled out, and the drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Clarinex makes its way into breast milk. You ll need to choose between nursing or continuing to use the drug.

Do not increase the Clarinex dosage or take it more than once a day. Higher doses of Clarinex have no additional effect on hay fever symptoms and may cause drowsiness.

Clarinex is not approved for children under 12.

Side effects of Clarinex cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Clarinex.

More common side effects of Clarinex: May include, dry mouth, fatigue, sleepiness, sore throat.

Less common side effects of Clarinex: May include dizziness, dry throat, flu-like symptoms, muscle pain, nausea.

Rare side effects of Clarinex: May include acute allergic