Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

LORATADINE WITH PSEUDOEPHEDRINE - ORAL SUSTAINED RELEASE TABLET

(lor-AT-uh-deen WITH sue-doh-eff-ED-rin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Claritin-D

Uses

Loratadine is an antihistamine which provides relief from symptoms of seasonal allergies such as watery and itching eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant which helps relieve a stuffy nose, promotes sinus draining, and improves breathing. This medication is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age due to the high amount of pseudoephedrine.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth usually twice daily (every 12 hours); or take as directed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet; doing so will destroy the long action and increase the chance of side effects. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Side Effects

Dry mouth, mild stomach upset, trouble sleeping, dizziness, headache, nervousness, loss of appetite, or thirst may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: fast/irregular heartbeat, uncontrolled shaking or tremor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: seizures, chest pain, mental/mood changes, difficulty urinating. This medication does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses and under normal circumstances. However, this drug may make you dizzy; therefore use caution engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: glaucoma (narrow angle type), severe difficulty urinating (urinary retention), severe high blood pressure, severe heart/blood vessel disease (coronary artery disease), liver disease, experienced serious side effects with decongestants (irregular heart rhythm). Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, problems urinating (e.g., enlarged prostate), high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems (e.g., ischemic heart disease), thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism), glaucoma (open angle type), any allergies. Limit alcoholic beverages, as it may intensify drug side effects. (See also Side Effects) Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. The two individual components of this medication pass into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

Drug Interactions

This drug should not be used with or within 14 days of taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid,moclobemide, phenelzine procarbazine, selegiline, isocarboxazid,tranylcypromine). Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: adrenalin-like drugs (e.g., ephedrine, methylphenidate), certain high blood pressure drugs (e.g., guanethidine, methyldopa, reserpine, beta-blockers such as propranolol), herbal products containing ephedra. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain additional antihistamines and decongestants that could increase your risk for side effects. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: irregular or unusually slow or fast heartbeat, unusual nervousness or excitement, and seizures.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store between 36 and 77 degrees F (2-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854- 1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).