Brand Name: Clarinex
Active Ingredient: desloratadine
Strength(s): 2.5mg, 5 mg, 0.5mg/mL
Dosage Form(s): Tablet and Orally-Disintegrating Tablet, Syrup
Company Name: Schering Corporation
Availability: Prescription only
Date Approved by FDA: December 21, 2001

What is Clarinex used for? 

Clarinex is used in patients:

•  2 years of age and older to treat symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (“hay fever”)
• 6 months of age and older to treat symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis (yearly allergies)
• 6 months of age and older to relieve itching due to hives in patients with recurrent hives

Who should not take Clarinex?

You should not take Clarinex if you are allergic to Claritin or Clarinex, or to any of the ingredients in Claritin or Clarinex. 

What should I tell my doctor or healthcare provider?

Tell your doctor or healthcare provider if you: 

• have or had liver problems 
• have or had kidney problems 
• are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are breast-feeding 

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines may affect how Clarinex works or Clarinex may affect how your other medicines work. 

What are some possible side effects of Clarinex? (This is NOT a complete list of side effects reported with Clarinex. Your healthcare provider can discuss with you a more complete list of side effects.)

• pharyngitis (sore throat) 
• dry mouth 
• sleepiness 
• tiredness 

Date created: November 22, 2002; Updated: 12/29/2004, 8/2005