Desloratadine, the major active metabolite of Loratadine, is a non-sedating; long acting tricyclic histamine antagonist with selective H1-receptor histamine antagonist activity. Desloratadine also inhibits histamine release from human mast cell.

Desloratadine is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, nasal discharge & itching, congestion or stuffiness, as well as ocular itching, tearing and redness, itching of palate and coughing. Desloratadine is also indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with chronic idiopathic urticaria such as the relief of itching and the size & number of hives.

Pediatric drops:

• Child 6-11 months of age: 2 ml drops once daily.
• Child 1-2 years of age: 2.5 ml drops once daily.

Syrup:

• Child 6-11 months of age: 2 ml once daily.
• Child 1-5 years of age: 2.5 ml once daily.
• Child 6-11 years of age: 5 ml once daily.
• Adults & >12 years of age: 10 ml once daily.

Tablet:

• Adults and children 12 years of age and over: 1 tablet daily

Desloratadine is contraindicated in patients having hypersensitivity to this medication or to any of its ingredients or Loratadine.

Less common side effects may include headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, pharyngitis, dyspepsia and myalgia.

Overdose Effects

No clinically relevant adverse effects have been reported.

In adult patients with liver or renal impairment: A starting dose of one 5 mg tablet every other day is recommended based on pharmacokinetic data. If the patient has medical or familial history of seizures.

Use in Special Populations

Recommended in the use in children & adolescents.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. The safe use of Desloratadine during pregnancy has not been established. Therefore, Desloratadine is not to be used during pregnancy unless clearly indicated. Desloratadine passes into breast milk, therefore a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue Desloratadine taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.