Loratadine (lor-AT-a-deen), Pseudoephedrine Sulfate (soo-doe-e-FED-rin SUL-fate)

Treats hay fever symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. Loratadine is an antihistamine, and pseudoephedrine is a decongestant.

Brand Name(s):

Leader Allergy Relief D-12, Alavert D-12 Hour, The Medicine Shoppe Allergy Relief D12, Claritin-D 12HR, Claritin-D, Loratadine-D, Good Neighbor Allergy & Congestion Relief 24 Hour, Quality Choice Loratadine-D, Claritin-D 24 Hour, Clear-Atadine D, Leader Allergy Relief D-24

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

12 Hour Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, 24 Hour Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. You should not use more of this medicine than your doctor ordered.
• Claritin-D 24 Hour® extended-release tablets should only be taken once a day.
• Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not break, crush, or chew.
• It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach.
• Drink plenty of liquids while taking this medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• Take your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose. If you are taking Claritin-D 24 Hour®, you should only take one dose a day.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
• You should not use other antihistamines or decongestants while taking this medicine, including those you buy without a doctor's prescription.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking medicine for high blood pressure, ketoconazole (Nizoral®), cimetidine (Tagamet®), or erythromycin (E.E.S.®, ERYC®, Ery-Tab®, and others).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• You should not use Claritin-D 24 Hour® tablets if you have trouble swallowing tablets. The tablet could get stuck as it passes down toward your stomach.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or prostate problems before taking this medicine.
• This medicine may make you drowsy or dizzy. Be careful if you are driving or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• Fainting or passing out

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Trouble sleeping
• Headache
• Nervousness
• Dry mouth or nose
• Dizziness or drowsiness