Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Claritin as follows:
- Claritin must be carefully administered in individuals with seizure history, as it can occasionally result in deterioration of seizure control and precipitate new episodes or relapse of seizures.
- Claritin is extensively metabolized in the liver to some active and inactive metabolites, which are excreted from the body, equally in the urine and feces. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of Claritin can be compromised. If renal function is deficient, the excretion of Claritin metabolites can be compromised. This can lead to increased blood levels of the medication and metabolites for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, in individuals with history of compromised liver and renal functions, Claritin must be used with caution and possible dose adjustment with the medication being started on a low dose. Periodical monitoring for liver and renal functions could be ordered and close monitoring is maintained to prevent development of any toxicity symptoms with the medication.