Clarinex Tablet Uses, Side Effects, and Price in Pakistan

Clarinex, also known as Desloratadine, is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. It belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines, which work by blocking the effects of histamine in the body.

Manufactured by: Schering-Plough Corporation

Generic: Desloratadine 

Drug Class: Antihistamines, 2nd Generation

Product form: Film-coated tablets

Mechanism of Action

Clarinex, also known by its generic name desloratadine, is a second-generation antihistamine used to treat allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria.

The mechanism of action of Clarinex involves its ability to selectively block histamine H1 receptors. Histamine is a natural chemical that is released by the body during an allergic reaction. It binds to H1 receptors in various tissues, including the nasal mucosa, bronchi, and skin, causing symptoms such as itching, sneezing, runny nose, and hives.

Clarinex works by binding to the H1 receptors in these tissues, thereby blocking the binding of histamine and reducing the allergic response. Unlike first-generation antihistamines, Clarinex is less likely to cause sedation and has a longer duration of action.

Moreover, you can speak to a doctor to know more detail about this medicine.

What is the Price of Clarinex in Pakistan?

Clarinex price in Pakistan ranges between 385 PKR/ 10 tablets pack. The price range can vary depending on the manufacturer.

What are the Uses of Clarinex?

Clarinex tablet uses include;

• Allergic Rhinitis: Relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes
• Chronic idiopathic urticaria: Relief of symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives), such as itching and hives
• Quality of life: Improvement of quality of life for people with allergic rhinitis or chronic idiopathic urticaria
• Allergic reactions: Prevention of allergic reactions to certain foods or medications, in combination with other treatments
• Asthma: Reduction of symptoms of allergic asthma, in combination with other treatments

What are the Side Effects of Clarinex?

Here are the potential side effects of Clarinex:

• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Dry mouth, throat or nose
• Sore throat, cough
• Nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Menstrual cramps
• Nervousness
• Skin rash or itching
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat

These side effects are usually mild and may go away on their own. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should contact an allergy specialist.

Who should not use Clarinex?

Here are the individuals who should not use Clarinex:

• Individuals who have a history of allergic reactions to desloratadine or any of the ingredients in Clarinex
• Individuals who have severe liver disease or kidney disease, unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional

Also read, best anti-allergy tablets for flu in Pakistan

It is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking Clarinex if you have any other medical conditions or are taking any other medications, as they may interact with Clarinex or affect your ability to safely take the medication.

How to store Clarinex?

Here are the guidelines for storing Clarinex:

• Store Clarinex at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C)
• Keep Clarinex away from moisture and direct sunlight
• Store Clarinex in its original packaging, tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use Clarinex after the expiration date printed on the packaging, as it may not be as effective or safe to use

What is the dosage for Clarinex?

Here are the recommended dosages of Clarinex:

For the relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis or chronic idiopathic urticaria:

• The recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is 5 mg once daily.

For the prevention of allergic reactions to certain foods or medications

• The recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is 5 mg once daily in combination with other treatments.

For the reduction of symptoms of allergic asthma

• The recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is 5 mg once daily in combination with other treatments.

What are the Precautions associated with Clarinex?

Here are some precautions to consider when taking Clarinex:

• Inform your healthcare professional of any medical conditions you have or medications you are taking before starting Clarinex.
• Clarinex may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so do not operate heavy machinery or engage in activities that require mental alertness until you know how Clarinex affects you.

Can you use Clarinex during Pregnancy?

It is typically not advised to take Clarinex (desloratadine) while pregnant, especially during the first trimester when the fetus is growing quickly. There is a dearth of information on the safety of Clarinex during pregnancy, and some animal studies have revealed negative effects on fetal development.

Clarinex is a pregnancy category C medicine, which means that the FDA has not determined whether it is safe to use during human pregnancy. Only if the advantages to the mother outweigh the hazards to the fetus can medicine in category C be taken.

You should talk to your healthcare professional about using Clarinex if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. 

Does Clarinex interact with other medications?

Here are some drugs that may interact with Clarinex:

• Benzodiazepines, opioids, or alcohol.
• Erythromycin or clarithromycin
• Ketoconazole
• Paroxetine
• Theophylline
• Cimetidine

What is the alternative for Clarinex?

There are several substitutes for Clarinex that are available in the market. Some of the commonly used substitutes include:

• Loratadine
• Fexofenadine
• Levocetirizine
• Cetirizine

Again, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to medication treatment.

It is always mandatory to consult an expert before using any kind of medication. Therefore consult the doctor about your allergy-related symptoms. If you want to take this medicine then do talk to an allergy specialist.

FAQs

1. Can you take Clarinex if you have high blood pressure?

It is recommended to speak with your healthcare professional before taking Clarinex if you have high blood pressure, as the medication may cause an increase in blood pressure in some individuals.

2. How long does it take for Clarinex to start working?

Clarinex typically begins to work within 1-3 hours of taking the medication, with maximum effects occurring within 8-12 hours.

3. Can you take Clarinex with other allergy medications?

It is recommended to speak with your healthcare professional before taking Clarinex with other allergy medications, as it may increase the risk of side effects or drug interactions. Your healthcare professional can help determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.