Claritin
CLARITIN® (loratadine) Tablets 10 mg are used to treat seasonal
allergy symptoms such as sneezing; runny nose; and itchy, watery eyes.
Once a day CLARITIN® does not cause drowsiness when taken at the
recommended doses, which is common with all over-the-counter and some
prescription antihistamines. (Drowsiness rates vary among products.) All
antihistamines that cause drowsiness must caution users about operating motor
vehicles or heavy machinery. CLARITIN®, on the other hand, is not
required to carry such warnings.
| What is Claritin? |
CLARITIN® is an antihistamine
— a type of medicine that blocks the action of histamine, a natural
substance in your body that is released by your immune system during an
allergic reaction. Antihistamines are often used to treat the symptoms of
seasonal allergies — itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose.
CLARITIN® provides effective relief from seasonal allergy
symptoms caused by airborne pollens from trees, grasses, and weeds. It is
also effective in relieving the symptoms of ongoing itching and hives of
unknown cause.
Available by prescription only, CLARITIN® won't cause
drowsiness like over-the-counter antihistamines and some prescription
antihistamines do. And, unlike many other over-the-counter antihistamines,
CLARITIN® offers convenient, once-a-day dosing.
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| How does Claritin work? |
CLARITIN® works by blocking
the histamine released by your body's immune system, thus relieving some
of your seasonal allergy symptoms.
Unlike all over-the-counter and some prescription antihistamines (which
can make people drowsy), CLARITIN®has no drowsy side
effects — so you feel better, not medicated. In studies, the
incidence of drowsiness with CLARITIN® was similar to that of
a sugar pill at the recommended dose.
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| What are the side effects of CLARITIN®? |
The most common side effects with CLARITIN®
(loratadine) Tablets 10 mg occurred about as often as they did with a
sugar pill, including headache, drowsiness, fatigue, and dry mouth. |
Who should not take CLARITIN®?
|
CLARITIN® should not be taken
by patients who are hypersensitive to any of its ingredients. As always,
it is important to tell your doctor if you are currently taking any other
medications when discussing your treatment options. |
| Can I take CLARITIN® if I am pregnant? |
As with all medications, you should
consult with your doctor or healthcare professional about your treatment
options if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. |
How old must my child be to take CLARITIN®?
|
CLARITIN® has been approved
for use by the Food and Drug Administration in children age 6 years and
older. Your pediatrician or healthcare professional is your best source of
information to determine the appropriate treatment and dosage for your
child. |
What time each day should I
take CLARITIN®?
|
As with all medications, follow your
doctor's instructions. In general, it is best to take your medication at
the same time each day. |
Should I refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages when
taking CLARITIN®?
|
In general, there is no restriction on
consumption of alcoholic beverages while taking CLARITIN®.
However, it is best to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional
regarding your particular situation. |
| Is CLARITIN® Right for Me? |
Ask your doctor if nondrowsy, 24-hour
CLARITIN® may help you and your family take clear control of
seasonal allergies.
In addition to relief without drowsiness, CLARITIN® offers:
 | Convenience. Just one CLARITIN® Tablet lasts 24
hours — so seasonal allergy symptoms won't spoil your plans — or
your family's.
 | Safety. CLARITIN® is well-tolerated. The most
common side effects occurred about as often as they did with a sugar
pill, including headache, drowsiness, fatigue, and dry mouth.
 | Relief for kids too. CLARITIN® T |
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