Desloratadine

Desloratadine is a non-sedating (second-generation) antihistamine medicine available in Bangladesh under many brand names. Below are its uses, dosage, side effects and precautions — and all brands with their current prices.

Desloratadine is commonly prescribed for:

• Allergic rhinitis — seasonal or year-round allergy with sneezing, runny or blocked nose, itchy nose, and itchy, red or watery eyes
• Chronic idiopathic urticaria — long-lasting hives with itching and raised skin rash
• Itching associated with other allergic skin conditions, as advised by a doctor
• Allergy symptoms triggered by dust, pollen, animal dander or other common allergens

Your doctor may also use it for other allergy-related problems where an antihistamine is helpful.

Adults and children over 12 years: the usual dose of Desloratadine is 5 mg once daily, with or without food. It can be taken at any convenient time, preferably at the same time each day.

Children: lower doses (often as syrup) are used for younger children, and the exact dose depends on age and body weight — always follow the doctor's advice for children.

Do not take more than the prescribed dose, as a higher dose does not give better relief but may increase side effects. The duration of treatment depends on your condition; for chronic allergy or urticaria, your doctor will decide how long to continue.

Desloratadine is generally well tolerated. Possible side effects include:

• Headache, tiredness or fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Mild drowsiness in some people (much less than older antihistamines)
• Dizziness, sore throat or nausea (uncommon)
• Rarely: fast heartbeat, palpitations, or allergic reactions such as rash, swelling of face/lips, or breathing difficulty

If you notice severe rash, swelling, breathing trouble or an irregular heartbeat after taking Desloratadine, stop the medicine and seek medical help immediately.

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems — the dose may need adjustment.
• Although Desloratadine is non-sedating for most people, see how it affects you before driving or operating machinery.
• Avoid alcohol while on antihistamines, as it may add to any drowsiness.
• Inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures (fits), as antihistamines should be used cautiously.
• Do not use it to treat a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — that needs emergency treatment.
• Tell your doctor about all other medicines, supplements and herbal products you take.

Desloratadine has fewer drug interactions than older antihistamines, but caution is still needed:

• Alcohol and sedatives (sleeping pills, anxiety medicines) — may increase drowsiness when combined.
• Erythromycin, azithromycin and ketoconazole — these can raise the blood level of Desloratadine; usually not harmful but tell your doctor.
• Other antihistamines or cough-cold combinations — avoid doubling up, since many cold remedies already contain an antihistamine.

Always share your full medicine list with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Desloratadine.

• Known allergy (hypersensitivity) to Desloratadine, loratadine, or any ingredient of the preparation
• Children below the age range recommended for the specific preparation, unless the doctor advises otherwise
• Use with caution — and only on medical advice — in severe kidney disease

There is limited human data on Desloratadine in pregnancy. It should be used during pregnancy only if the doctor judges that the benefit outweighs any possible risk — do not start it on your own. Desloratadine passes into breast milk in small amounts, so breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before use; the doctor may choose this medicine or a better-studied alternative depending on the situation.

Store Desloratadine below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep the medicine in its original pack and out of the reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.