Za Pharmacy
Drugs, Supplies and Delivery
Desloratadine
Desloratadine is a safe, non-sedating antihistamine for allergic rhinitis and urticaria, with minimal drug interactions. Its once-daily dosing and tolerability make it ideal for long-term use. Adherence to BNF guidelines ensures efficacy, particularly in pediatric and sensitive populations
Desloratadine is a second-generation antihistamine and the primary active metabolite of loratadine. It selectively antagonizes peripheral H₁ histamine receptors, blocking histamine-induced allergic responses. Key features include:
- Peripheral Selectivity: Minimal penetration of the blood-brain barrier, reducing sedation (Lippincott).
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Inhibits histamine-mediated vasodilation, bronchoconstriction, and pruritus.
- Long Duration: Provides 24-hour relief with once-daily dosing due to prolonged receptor binding.
Desloratadine is approved for:
- Allergic Rhinitis:
- Seasonal (hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis (≥12 years).
- Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria:
- Reduces itching and hives (≥1 year).
- Off-Label Uses:
- Allergic conjunctivitis (adjunct therapy).
Adults and Adolescents (≥12 years):
- Oral: 5 mg once daily.
Children:
- 6–11 years: 2.5 mg once daily (syrup or tablet).
- 1–5 years: 1.25 mg once daily (syrup).
Special Populations:
- Renal/Hepatic Impairment: No dose adjustment required (BNF).
- Elderly: No specific recommendations; standard dosing applies.
Administration Tips:
- Take with or without food.
- Avoid grapefruit juice (theoretical interaction via CYP3A4 inhibition).
- Common (≥1%): Headache, dry mouth, fatigue.
- Rare (<1%):
- Dizziness, nausea, diarrhea.
- Hypersensitivity reactions (angioedema, rash).
- Tachycardia (isolated reports).
- Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to desloratadine, loratadine, or components.
- Pregnancy/Lactation:
- BNF Category: Use only if benefits outweigh risks (limited human data).
- Excreted in breast milk; avoid during lactation.
- Hepatic/Renal Monitoring:
- Safe in mild-to-moderate impairment; monitor in severe cases.
Desloratadine has low interaction potential due to minimal hepatic metabolism (primarily CYP3A4/2D6). Notable considerations:
- CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): May increase desloratadine levels (monitor for side effects).
- CNS Depressants: No significant additive sedation (Lange).
- Alcohol: No interaction reported, but avoid excess.
- Generic: Desloratadine.
- Brand Names:
- US: Clarinex®, Aerius®.
- UK: Neoclarityn®.
Others: Azomyr® (Europe), Deslor® (India
