Clarityne D (Loratadine-Pseudoephedrine) Dosage Recommendations
For adults and children 12 years and over, the recommended dosage of Clarityne D is 1 tablet (containing loratadine 10 mg and pseudoephedrine 240 mg) once daily, or alternatively, 1 tablet of the 12-hour formulation (containing loratadine 5 mg and pseudoephedrine 120 mg) twice daily. 1, 2
Adult and Adolescent Dosing (≥12 years)
Once-Daily Formulation (Clarityne D 24 Hour)
- Loratadine 10 mg + Pseudoephedrine 240 mg
- Take 1 tablet once daily
- Do not exceed 1 tablet in 24 hours
Twice-Daily Formulation (Clarityne D 12 Hour)
- Loratadine 5 mg + Pseudoephedrine 120 mg
- Take 1 tablet every 12 hours
- Do not exceed 2 tablets in 24 hours
Children Under 12 Years
- Clarityne D is not recommended for children under 12 years of age 1
- For children 6-11 years requiring only the pseudoephedrine component:
- Pseudoephedrine alone: 1 tablet (appropriate formulation) every 4-6 hours
- Do not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours 1
- For children under 6 years: Do not use 1
Clinical Considerations
Efficacy
- Clarityne D combines the antihistamine effects of loratadine with the decongestant effects of pseudoephedrine, providing relief from both nasal congestion and other allergic rhinitis symptoms 3
- The once-daily formulation (Clarityne D 24 Hour) has comparable efficacy to the twice-daily formulation (Clarityne D 12 Hour) in relieving allergic rhinitis symptoms 2
Safety Profile
- The once-daily formulation is associated with significantly less insomnia (4%) compared to the twice-daily formulation (15%) 2
- Common side effects include dry mouth (reported in 13% of patients for both formulations) 2
- Insomnia and nervousness are more common with Clarityne D formulations compared to loratadine alone due to the pseudoephedrine component 3
Special Populations
- For elderly patients (≥65 years): Consider starting with a lower dose due to potential for increased sensitivity to adverse effects
- For patients with renal impairment: Dose adjustment may be necessary as both components are eliminated through the kidneys
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Do not confuse Clarityne (loratadine alone) with Clarityne D (loratadine-pseudoephedrine combination)
- Do not exceed recommended daily dosage as this may increase the risk of adverse effects
- Avoid use in patients with severe hypertension, severe coronary artery disease, or narrow-angle glaucoma due to the pseudoephedrine component
- Be aware that the once-daily formulation may be preferable for patients concerned about sleep disturbances, as it causes significantly less insomnia than the twice-daily formulation
By following these dosage recommendations, patients can effectively manage symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis while minimizing potential adverse effects.