Drug reference

desloratadine

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Drug class

Respiratory (Anti Histamine)

Mechanism of action

Like other H1-blockers, Desloratadine competes with free histamine for binding at H1-receptors in the GI tract, uterus, large blood vessels, and bronchial smooth muscle. This blocks the action of endogenous histamine, which subsequently leads to temporary relief of the negative symptoms (eg. nasal congestion, watery eyes) brought on by histamine.

Common side effects

  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Irritability
  • Diarrhea

Contraindications

  • Documented hypersensitivity to desloratadine or loratadine or components

Related conditions

Frequently asked questions

What drug class is desloratadine?

desloratadine belongs to: Respiratory.

How does desloratadine work?

Like other H1-blockers, Desloratadine competes with free histamine for binding at H1-receptors in the GI tract, uterus, large blood vessels, and bronchial smooth muscle. This blocks the action of endogenous histamine, which subsequently leads to temporary relief of the negative symptoms (eg. nasal congestion, watery eyes) brought on by histamine.

What are the common side effects of desloratadine?

Headache, Fever, Irritability, Diarrhea

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