Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Claritin as follows:
- Claritin can induce nausea and vomiting, when taken on empty stomach. Taking the medication with a glass of water and some food or snack can help avoid these unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms. Claritin can also induce extreme dry mouth and constipation. Sucking on a sugar free hard candy can help with symptomatic relief of dry mouth. Proper hydration measures and compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations can help with relief from constipation. If you experience any further bothersome constipation, report it to your physician for a recommendation on laxative/stool softener use.
- 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.
