Mechanism of Action: Inhibits peripheral histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms without significant sedation.
Indications
Primary Use: Treatment of allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and hives.
Other Uses: Management of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives without a known cause).
Dosage
Adults: 5 mg once daily.
Elderly: No adjustment needed; well-tolerated in elderly patients.
Children: Approved for use in children aged 2 years and older. Dosage for children aged 2 to 5 years is 1.25 mg daily; ages 6 to 11 years, 2.5 mg daily; and ages 12 and above, 5 mg daily.
Administration
Method: Oral intake.
Precautions: Can be taken with or without food.
Forms Available
Tablets: 5 mg
Orally Disintegrating Tablets: 2.5 mg, 5 mg
Syrup: 0.5 mg/mL
Side Effects
Common: Fatigue, dry mouth, headache.
Less Common: Sore throat, myalgia (muscle pain), palpitations.
Rare but Serious: Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, and liver dysfunction.
Warnings
General: Minimal risk of sedation, making it suitable for patients needing to maintain alertness.
Contraindications: Known hypersensitivity to desloratadine or any of its components.
Precautions
General: Observe for signs of an allergic reaction, particularly after initial dosing.
Health Conditions: Use with caution in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment.
Interactions
Medications: Very few significant drug interactions; however, caution advised with concomitant use of other CNS depressants.
Food: No known significant food interactions.
Monitoring Parameters
Allergy Symptoms: Regular assessment of allergy symptoms to determine efficacy.
Liver Function: Monitor liver enzymes periodically in patients with hepatic impairment.
Use in Children
Safety: Approved for young children with appropriate dose adjustments.
Efficacy: Demonstrated efficacy in relieving allergy symptoms in pediatric patients.
Use in Pregnancy
FDA Category: B. No evidence of risk in other stages of pregnancy but should only be used if clearly needed.
Use in Elderly
Considerations: No dosage adjustments necessary; generally well-tolerated.
Use in Kidney Disease
Adjustments: Dosage adjustment may be necessary in severe renal impairment.
Use in Liver Disease
Caution: Use with caution; may require dose adjustments in severe hepatic conditions.
Patient Counselling Points
Medication Use: Take as directed to manage allergy symptoms effectively.
Side Effects: Report any severe or unexpected reactions, especially signs of severe allergic responses or liver issues.
Lifestyle: Safe to use when operating vehicles or machinery due to minimal sedative effects.
Table of Brand Names, Manufacturer, and Prices in USD
Brand Name
Manufacturer
Strength/Dosage Form
Price (USD)
Clarinex
Merck
5 mg Tablet
$3.00
Aerius
Schering-Plough
5 mg Tablet
$2.80
15 FAQs with Answers
What is Desloratadine used for? – To treat allergy symptoms and chronic urticaria.
Can Desloratadine cause drowsiness? – It is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to other antihistamines.
How should Desloratadine be taken? – Once daily, with or without food.
What are the common side effects of Desloratadine? – Includes headache, dry mouth, and fatigue.
Is Desloratadine safe during pregnancy? – Classified as Category B; discuss with a healthcare provider.
Can Desloratadine be taken with alcohol? – Alcohol may enhance potential side effects; caution is advised.
What is the pediatric dose of Desloratadine? – Varies from 1.25 mg to 5 mg daily based on age.
What should I avoid while taking Desloratadine? – Avoid other CNS depressants unless approved by a doctor.
What are signs of a serious allergic reaction to Desloratadine? – Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling, and severe rash.
Is Desloratadine addictive? – No, it does not have addictive properties.
Should I stop taking Desloratadine suddenly? – Can be stopped as it does not cause withdrawal symptoms; consult with a doctor if unsure.
What are the rare but serious side effects of Desloratadine? – Includes anaphylaxis and liver dysfunction.
What other medications interact with Desloratadine? – Few significant interactions, but always inform your doctor about all medications.
Who should not take Desloratadine? – Anyone with a known allergy to desloratadine or its components.
How does Desloratadine work to alleviate allergy symptoms? – It blocks histamine, which reduces allergy symptoms.
