Desloratadine; Pseudoephedrine Extended-Release Tablets

What is this medication?

DESLORATADINE; PSEUDOEPHEDRINE (des lor AT a deen; soo doe e FED rin) treats the symptoms of the common cold, allergies, or flu. It works by reducing red, itchy eyes and a runny or stuffy nose. It is a combination of an antihistamine and a decongestant.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Clarinex-D

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Diabetes
• Glaucoma
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Problems urinating
• Prostate disease
• Taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days
• Thyroid disease
• An unusual or allergic reaction to desloratadine, loratadine, pseudoephedrine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take with or without food. Do not break, chew, or crush. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Patients over 60 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

• Antihistamines and other medications for allergy, cough and cold
• Ergot alkaloids like dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, ergotamine, methylergonovine
• Herbal or dietary supplements containing ephedra or ephedrine
• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Azithromycin
• Bromocriptine
• Certain medications for depression
• Digoxin
• Erythromycin
• Linezolid
• Ketoconazole
• Methyldopa
• Reserpine
• Stimulant medications for attention disorders, weight loss, or to stay awake
• Yohimbine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not improve.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medication. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your care team if the problem does not go away or is severe.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Heart palpitations—rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• Increase in blood pressure

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Anxiety, nervousness
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.