Desloratadine ODT 5mg Tablets
It is used to ease allergy signs.It is used to treat hives.
Drug Class
Antihistamine
Pharmacologic Class
Selective Peripheral H1-Receptor Antagonist
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Feb 2002
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Desloratadine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and hives. It works by blocking a natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. This specific form is an orally disintegrating tablet, meaning it dissolves quickly in your mouth without water.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take this medication with or without food. When you're ready to take a dose, remove it from the blister pack and take it immediately. Do not store the removed medication for later use.
To take the medication:
Use dry hands to remove the tablet from the foil packaging.
Place the tablet on your tongue and let it dissolve. You don't need to drink water.
* Do not swallow the tablet whole, chew, break, or crush it.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Keep your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from bathrooms and heat sources. Store all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. When you're finished with the medication or it expires, dispose of it properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you're unsure about how to dispose of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to local drug take-back programs.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. You can take this medication with or without food. When you're ready to take a dose, remove it from the blister pack and take it immediately. Do not store the removed medication for later use.
To take the medication:
Use dry hands to remove the tablet from the foil packaging.
Place the tablet on your tongue and let it dissolve. You don't need to drink water.
* Do not swallow the tablet whole, chew, break, or crush it.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Keep your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from bathrooms and heat sources. Store all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. When you're finished with the medication or it expires, dispose of it properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you're unsure about how to dispose of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to local drug take-back programs.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take once daily, with or without food.
- Allow the tablet to dissolve completely on the tongue before swallowing. No water is needed.
- Do not crush or chew the tablet.
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- While generally non-drowsy, avoid activities requiring mental alertness until you know how it affects you.
- Avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of side effects, although desloratadine is less sedating than older antihistamines.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
5 mg orally once daily
Dose Range:
5 - 5 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
chronicidiopathicurticaria:
5 mg orally once daily
seasonalallergicrhinitis:
5 mg orally once daily
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established (under 6 months)
Child:
6 to 11 months: 1.25 mg (2.5 mL syrup) orally once daily; 12 months to 5 years: 1.25 mg (2.5 mL syrup) orally once daily; 6 to 11 years: 2.5 mg (5 mL syrup or 1 tablet) orally once daily
Adolescent:
12 years and older: 5 mg orally once daily
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
5 mg every other day
Severe:
5 mg every other day
Dialysis:
5 mg every other day (desloratadine is not effectively removed by hemodialysis)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
5 mg every other day
Severe:
5 mg every other day
Confidence:
Medium
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Desloratadine is a long-acting tricyclic antihistamine with selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist activity. It inhibits histamine release from mast cells and basophils and inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells and basophils. It also inhibits the expression of adhesion molecules such as P-selectin on endothelial cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Not directly reported for oral tablets, but rapidly absorbed
Tmax:
Approximately 3 hours
FoodEffect:
Food does not affect the absorption of desloratadine.
Distribution:
Vd:
Approximately 49 L/kg
ProteinBinding:
83% to 87%
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Approximately 27 hours
Clearance:
Not available
ExcretionRoute:
Approximately 40% in urine and 40% in feces as metabolites
Unchanged:
Less than 2% excreted unchanged in urine and feces
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within 1 hour
PeakEffect:
Approximately 3 hours (corresponds to Tmax)
DurationOfAction:
24 hours
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling irritable
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice:
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Feeling tired or weak
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Muscle pain
- Feeling sleepy
- Period (menstrual) pain
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling irritable
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice:
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Feeling tired or weak
- Dry mouth
- Sore throat
- Muscle pain
- Feeling sleepy
- Period (menstrual) pain
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat)
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Fast or irregular heartbeats
- Seizures
- Unusual weakness or tiredness
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This is crucial to avoid potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This is crucial to avoid potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, it is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase your chance of experiencing severe side effects. Additionally, do not take this medication for a longer duration than specified by your doctor.
Until you understand how this medication affects you, avoid operating a vehicle, performing tasks that require alertness, or engaging in activities that demand your full attention. It is also recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking this drug.
Before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications that may cause drowsiness or slow your reactions, consult with your doctor.
If you are scheduled to undergo allergy skin tests, inform your doctor and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication, as it may interfere with the test results.
Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should discuss this condition with their doctor, as some formulations of this medication may contain phenylalanine.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, consult with your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication to both you and your baby.
To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase your chance of experiencing severe side effects. Additionally, do not take this medication for a longer duration than specified by your doctor.
Until you understand how this medication affects you, avoid operating a vehicle, performing tasks that require alertness, or engaging in activities that demand your full attention. It is also recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking this drug.
Before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications that may cause drowsiness or slow your reactions, consult with your doctor.
If you are scheduled to undergo allergy skin tests, inform your doctor and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication, as it may interfere with the test results.
Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should discuss this condition with their doctor, as some formulations of this medication may contain phenylalanine.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, consult with your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Drowsiness
- Somnolence
- Headache
- Tachycardia
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (in children)
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Desloratadine is not effectively removed by hemodialysis.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Ketoconazole
- Erythromycin
- Fluoxetine
- Cimetidine
Minor Interactions
Monitoring
Routine Monitoring
Symptom relief (e.g., sneezing, rhinorrhea, itching, urticaria)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Significant reduction or resolution of symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of symptom improvement after 3-5 days, consider alternative therapy or re-evaluation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Allergic rhinitis symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose/eyes/palate)
- Urticaria symptoms (hives, itching)
- Signs of hypersensitivity reaction (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Desloratadine is classified as Pregnancy Category C. Animal studies have shown adverse effects at high doses, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Limited human data; animal studies suggest potential risk at high doses.
Second Trimester:
Limited human data; animal studies suggest potential risk at high doses.
Third Trimester:
Limited human data; animal studies suggest potential risk at high doses.
Lactation
Desloratadine and its active metabolite are excreted into breast milk. Due to the potential for adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Infant Risk:
L3 - Moderately safe. Potential for drowsiness, irritability, or other effects in the infant. Monitor infant for side effects.
Pediatric Use
Dosing is established for children 6 months and older, but specific ODT formulation may not be suitable for very young children. Liquid formulations are available for infants and young children. Safety and efficacy in children younger than 6 months have not been established.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustment is generally required based on age alone. However, due to potential for decreased renal or hepatic function in older adults, dose adjustment may be necessary if impairment is present. Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Desloratadine is the active metabolite of loratadine, offering similar efficacy with a slightly faster onset for some patients.
- The ODT formulation is convenient for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or prefer not to use water.
- It is generally non-sedating, making it suitable for daytime use.
- Patients with renal or hepatic impairment require dose adjustment (every other day dosing) due to prolonged half-life.
- Advise patients to allow the ODT to dissolve completely on the tongue without chewing or crushing.
Alternative Therapies
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Levocetirizine (Xyzal)
- Azelastine (nasal spray)
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays (e.g., Fluticasone, Mometasone)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $50 per 30 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (preferred generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication, including the amount taken and the time it happened, to ensure you receive the best possible care.