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Brand Name: Claritin; Claritin RediTabs
Generic Name: Loratadine
(lor at' a deen)
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Why is claritin prescribed?
Claritin (Loratadine) is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms, including sneezing; runny nose; and red, itchy, tearing eyes. Claritin is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Claritin may cause less drowsiness than other antihistamines.
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How should claritin be used properly?
Loratadine (Claritin) comes as a syrup, a tablet, and a rapidly disintegrating tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once a day with or without food. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take loratadine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
To take the rapidly disintegrating tablet, place the tablet on your tongue. It will quickly dissolve and can be swallowed with saliva.
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What are the common uses for claritin?
Claritin may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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What special precautions should I follow when using claritin?
Before taking loratadine,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to loratadine or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially erythromycin (E-Mycin), ketoconazole (Nizoral), medications for asthma or colds, medications for depression, muscle relaxants, pain medications, sedatives, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking loratadine, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking loratadine.
- plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Loratadine may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking claritin?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your regular diet while using claritin.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of claritin?
You should take the missed dose of claritin just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can claritin cause?
Although side effects from loratadine are not common, they can occur. You may have discolored urine; this effect is harmless. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- dry mouth, nose, and throat
- drowsiness
- headache
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- muscle weakness
- difficulty urinating
- vision problems
- rapid heartbeat
- dizziness
» topWhat storage conditions are needed for claritin?
Always keep the claritin in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or an claritin overdose?
In case of an claritin overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about claritin?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Loratadine can affect blood glucose tests. Tell your doctor that you take loratadine if you are having this laboratory test.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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