Desloratadine
CLARINEX
Pronunciation: des-lor-AT-a-deen
What it isSecond-generation H1 antihistamine, the active metabolite of loratadine; allergic rhinitis and urticaria.
Why this oneIt needs no hepatic activation, so exposure is predictable.
What limits itMinimal sedation. Little advantage over generic loratadine at higher cost.
FDA-approved for
- allergy (2001)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allergic rhinitis / chronic urticaria | >=12 yr | 5 mg QD | 5 mg QD | 5 mg QD |
Renal Renal impairment (adults): 5 mg every other day
Hepatic Hepatic impairment (adults): 5 mg every other day
Instructions
- May be taken without regard to meals
Available strengths
- tab 5 mg
- ODT 2.5, 5 mg
- sol 0.5 mg/mL
Cautions
- Hypersensitivity reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, edema, dyspnea, anaphylaxis - discontinue if they occur
Adverse reactions
- Pharyngitis, dry mouth, myalgia, fatigue, somnolence, dysmenorrhea
Pregnancy Limited human data; not teratogenic in animals
Lactation Undefined
Cost
Generic entry2010
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskLittle; minimal advantage over generic loratadine
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryB
Defining liabilityGenerally tolerated at therapeutic doses; clinically important risks are agent-specific and increase with interactions or organ impairment.