From the Guidelines
Desloratadine can be used in a 1-year-old child, but only under the guidance and prescription of a pediatrician, as second-generation antihistamines like desloratadine have been shown to be well tolerated and have a good safety profile in young children 1. When considering the use of desloratadine in a 1-year-old child, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks. The typical dose for children aged 1-5 years is 1.25 mg once daily. However, it's crucial to consult a doctor before administering any medication to a child this young. The doctor will assess if the benefits outweigh any potential risks and may adjust the dose based on the child's specific needs and health condition.
Key Considerations
- Desloratadine works by blocking histamine receptors, reducing allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and itching.
- While generally considered safe for children over 1 year, it can cause side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth.
- Always use the measuring device provided with the medication to ensure accurate dosing.
- If symptoms persist or worsen, or if any unusual reactions occur, discontinue use and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Safety Profile
The safety profile of desloratadine in young children is a significant consideration. According to the studies, second-generation antihistamines like desloratadine have been shown to be well tolerated and have a very good safety profile in young children 1. In contrast, OTC cough and cold medications have been associated with significant risks, including fatalities, in children under 6 years of age 1. Therefore, it's essential to use desloratadine only under the guidance of a pediatrician and to follow their recommended dosage and administration instructions.
From the FDA Drug Label
In subjects 12 months to 23 months of age, adverse events reported for the Desloratadine product and placebo in at least 2 percent of subjects receiving Desloratadine Oral Solution and at a frequency greater than placebo were fever (16.9%, 12.9%), diarrhea (15.4%, 11.3%), upper respiratory tract infections (10.8%, 9.7%), coughing (10.8%, 6. 5%), appetite increased (3.1%, 1.6%), emotional lability (3.1%, 0%), epistaxis (3.1%, 0%), parasitic infection (3.1%, 0%), pharyngitis (3.1%, 0%), rash maculopapular (3. 1%, 0%). Pediatric subjects aged 1 to 5 years received 1.25 mg once a day
Desloratadine (Clarinex) can be used in a 1-year-old child. The recommended dose for pediatric subjects aged 1 to 5 years is 1.25 mg once a day 2.
From the Research
Desloratadine Use in Children
- The safety and efficacy of desloratadine in children have been evaluated in several studies 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- A study published in 2004 found that desloratadine syrup was safe and well-tolerated in children aged 2-11 years with allergic rhinitis or chronic idiopathic urticaria 3.
- Another study published in 2009 reviewed the use of second-generation antihistamines, including desloratadine, in infants and children, and found that they were relatively safe and effective in reducing symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis 4.
- However, there is limited data available on the use of desloratadine in children under the age of 2 years, including 1-year-old children.
Age-Specific Considerations
- The studies available do not provide specific guidance on the use of desloratadine in 1-year-old children 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- The safety and efficacy of desloratadine in children under 2 years of age have not been established in the available studies.
Dosage and Administration
- The dosage of desloratadine for children varies by age and weight, but there is no specific guidance on the use of desloratadine in 1-year-old children 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Desloratadine is available in syrup form, which may be suitable for young children, but the dosage and administration instructions should be carefully followed.
Safety and Efficacy
- Desloratadine has been shown to be safe and effective in children aged 2-11 years with allergic rhinitis or chronic idiopathic urticaria 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- However, the safety and efficacy of desloratadine in 1-year-old children have not been established, and its use in this age group should be approached with caution.