From the Guidelines
Clarinex (desloratadine) is not typically associated with abnormal vaginal bleeding as a common side effect, and if you are experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding while taking Clarinex, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly to rule out other underlying conditions that may require medical attention. Clarinex is an antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes or skin, and works by blocking histamine receptors in the body. The most common side effects of Clarinex include headache, dry mouth, fatigue, and drowsiness.
According to the U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2013 1, if clinically indicated, an underlying gynecological problem, such as interactions with other medications, an STD, pregnancy, or new pathologic uterine conditions (e.g., polyps or fibroids), should be considered. If an underlying gynecologic problem is found, treat the condition or refer for care.
Some key points to consider:
- If an underlying gynecologic problem is not found and the woman wants treatment, the following treatment options during days of bleeding can be considered: NSAIDs for short-term treatment (5–7 days) or hormonal treatment (if medically eligible) with low-dose COCs or estrogen for short-term treatment (10–20 days) 1.
- If irregular bleeding persists and the woman finds it unacceptable, counsel her on alternative contraceptive methods, and offer another method if it is desired 1.
- The U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria for Contraceptive Use, 2010 1 also provides guidance on the use of progestin-only contraceptives, including considerations for women with vaginal bleeding patterns, endometriosis, benign ovarian tumors, and other conditions.
It is essential to seek medical evaluation for abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially if it is heavy, prolonged, or accompanied by pain or other concerning symptoms, as it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention. Do not stop taking Clarinex without consulting your doctor.
From the FDA Drug Label
Reproductive System and Breast Disorders Dysmenorrhea 2.1%1.6%
The FDA drug label for desloratadine (Clarinex) reports dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) as an adverse event, but it does not mention abnormal vaginal bleeding. Therefore, based on the available information, there is no direct evidence to suggest a link between Clarinex and abnormal vaginal bleeding 2 2.
From the Research
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding and Clarinex
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that links Clarinex to abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Related Studies on Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
- Studies have investigated the causes and treatments of heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and irregular vaginal bleeding, but none of these studies mention Clarinex as a potential cause or contributor to abnormal vaginal bleeding 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- The studies suggest that heavy menstrual bleeding can be caused by hormonal imbalances, bleeding disorders, and other factors, and that treatments such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tranexamic acid, and hormonal therapies may be effective in reducing menstrual blood loss 3, 4.
- Irregular vaginal bleeding can also be caused by the use of progestin-only contraceptives, and studies have investigated the management of unscheduled bleeding associated with these contraceptives 6, 7.
Key Findings
- NSAIDs have been shown to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, but are less effective than tranexamic acid, danazol, or the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS) 4.
- Tranexamic acid has been shown to be effective in reducing menstrual blood loss, and may be a useful treatment option for women with heavy menstrual bleeding 3, 4.
- The management of unscheduled bleeding associated with progestin-only contraceptives is an important area of research, and studies have investigated the use of various therapies, including NSAIDs, tranexamic acid, and hormonal therapies 6, 7.