Is Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) over the counter?

No, Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) is only available with a prescription from a healthcare provider. If you're looking for a combination medication containing an [antihistamine and decongestant](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/antihistamine-alpha-1-agonist-combinations) that's over the counter (or [behind the counter](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/otc/whats-behind-the-counter)), ask your pharmacist for available options.

What's the difference between Clarinex-D and Claritin-D?

Both Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) and [Claritin-D (loratadine / pseudoephedrine)](https://www.goodrx.com/loratadine-pseudoephedrine/what-is) contain the decongestant [pseudoephedrine](https://www.goodrx.com/pseudoephedrine/what-is) with a different antihistamine: Clarinex-D contains [desloratadine](https://www.goodrx.com/desloratadine/what-is) while Claritin-D contains [loratadine](https://www.goodrx.com/loratadine/what-is). Desloratadine and loratadine seem to [work similarly well](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548831/), but some people might prefer one over the other. Another difference is that Clarinex-D is only available as a 12-hour tablet that can be taken twice daily. Claritin-D also comes as a 12-hour tablet, as well as a 24-hour tablet that's taken once daily. Additionally, Claritin-D is available over the counter ([behind the counter](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/otc/whats-behind-the-counter)) while [Clarinex-D requires a prescription](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/allergies/youre-probably-taking-the-wrong-allergy-medication).

Is Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) a controlled substance?

Certain states might consider Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) a [controlled substance](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/medication-basics/what-are-controlled-substances) and have put strict regulations on the medication. This is because the [pseudoephedrine](https://www.goodrx.com/pseudoephedrine/what-is) in Clarinex-D has the [potential to be misused](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/otc/whats-behind-the-counter). Keep in mind that state laws change from time to time. So, it’s best to ask your primary care provider or pharmacist whether Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) is a controlled substance in your state and how to safely take the medication.

Does Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) make you drowsy?

Yes, it's possible to [feel drowsy](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/antihistamines/common-side-effects) after you take Clarinex-D 12-Hour because it contains desloratadine, an antihistamine. But Clarinex-D 12-Hour also contains [pseudoephedrine](https://www.goodrx.com/pseudoephedrine/what-is), which can have the opposite effect and make you [stay awake](https://www.goodrx.com/sudafed/common-side-effects). Studies show that Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) is more likely to cause [insomnia](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/insomnia) (trouble sleeping) than drowsiness. Pay attention to how Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) affects your sleep. Contact your prescriber to discuss better options for you if it's making you too sleepy or interrupting your sleep and affecting your daily activities.

Can you take Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil)?

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) isn't known to have a direct interaction with [acetaminophen (Tylenol)](https://www.goodrx.com/acetaminophen/what-is) or [ibuprofen (Advil)](https://www.goodrx.com/ibuprofen/what-is). But these pain medications aren't the best choice for everyone. For example, acetaminophen (Tylenol) isn't a good option for people who have [liver problems](https://www.goodrx.com/acetaminophen/risks-side-effects). And ibuprofen (Advil) can [worsen kidney or heart problems](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/nsaids/who-should-not-take). To be safe, it's best to ask your care team if it's appropriate for you to take Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).

Clarinex-D Coupon - Clarinex-D 2.5mg/120mg tablet

Clarinex-D 12 Hour

desloratadine / pseudoephedrine

Used for Allergic Rhinitis, Nasal Congestion

Basics Side effects Pros & cons Pharmacist tips FAQs Warnings Dosage Interactions Cost Contraindications Alternatives Images References Prices Medicare

Clarinex-D 12-Hour contains desloratadine (an antihistamine) and pseudoephedrine (a decongestant). It's used to treat symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as runny or stuffy nose and itchy or watery eyes, in adults and children. Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically every 12 hours. The most common side effects include trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and headache. Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) isn't available over the counter, but by prescription only. Clarinex-D is a brand name medication and not available as a generic.

Reviewed by:

Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD

Last reviewed on August 21, 2024

Basics Side effects Pros & cons Pharmacist tips FAQs Warnings Dosage Interactions Cost Contraindications Alternatives Images References Prices Medicare

What is Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)?

What is Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) used for?

Seasonal allergy symptoms (runny or stuffy nose, itchy nose, itchy or watery eyes) in adults and children ages 12 years and older

How Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) works

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) is a combination of two medications that work together to relieve allergy symptoms.

Desloratadine is an antihistamine. It blocks histamine, a natural chemical in your body that can cause allergy symptoms, like itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and hives. By blocking histamine, Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) helps relieve allergy symptoms.
Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant. It tightens blood vessels in the nose to relieve sinus pressure.

Are you looking for information on Clarinex (desloratadine) or Claritin-D (loratadine / pseudoephedrine) instead?

Drug facts

Common BrandsClarinex-D

Drug ClassAntihistamine / Decongestant

Controlled Substance ClassificationControlled in some states. See FAQs below.

Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available

AvailabilityPrescription only

Side effects of Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Trouble sleeping (10%)
Dry mouth (8%)
Headache (8%)

Less Common Side Effects

Fatigue
Sleepiness
Dizziness
Sore throat
Nausea
Loss of appetite

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) serious side effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.

High blood pressure or fast heart rate: chest pain, blurry vision, headache, fatigue
Allergic reaction: itchy, red rash (hives); shortness of breath; chest tightness; swelling of lips, tongue, throat, face, or eyes

Source: DailyMed

The following Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Observed during clinical practice

Abdominal or stomach pain area

chills

clay-colored stools

cough

dark urine

difficult or labored breathing

difficulty swallowing

dizziness

elevated liver enzymes

fast heartbeat

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

fever

general tiredness and weakness

headache

hives

irregular heartbeat

itching

light-colored stools

loss of appetite

nausea

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips or tongue

rash

redness of skin

shortness of breath

skin rash

swelling

tightness in chest

unpleasant breath odor

unusual tiredness or weakness

upper right abdominal pain

vomiting of blood

vomiting

welts

wheezing

yellow eyes or skin

Symptoms of overdose

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Increased heart rate

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Dry mouth

sleeplessness

trouble sleeping

unable to sleep

Less common

Body aches or pain

congestion

dryness or soreness of throat

hoarseness

nervousness

restlessness

runny nose

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

tender, swollen glands in neck

trouble sitting still

voice changes

weight loss

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price

$439.61(Save 19.55%)

GoodRx discount

$353.67

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Pros and cons of Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)

Pros

Desloratadine and pseudoephedrine in Clarinex-D 12-Hour both start to work within an hour
Combines two medications into a single pill
Taken by mouth

Cons

Needs to be taken every 12 hours
Can cause trouble sleeping
Not the best choice for people with certain medical conditions (e.g., glaucoma, high blood pressure, trouble urinating)

Pharmacist tips for Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)

You can take Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try taking the medication with food.
Swallow Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) tablets whole; don't crush, chew, or break the tablets. If you're having trouble swallowing the tablet whole, contact your prescriber because you'll need to be switched to a different medication.
It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine). This combination can raise your risk of feeling sleepy or dizzy. If you drink alcohol regularly and it's difficult for you to stop, talk with your healthcare team about whether there's a safer amount to drink or about safer options to treat your allergies.
Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) can interact with certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and beta blockers. Don't start any new medications while taking Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) without talking to your care team first. They'll be able to review your medication list to see if your medications are safe to take together.
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, don't take Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) until you've talked to a healthcare professional first. There's limited information on how safe it is to take pseudoephedrine during pregnancy. And there's a risk that taking pseudoephedrine during nursing can dry up breast milk supply.

Common questions about Clarinex-D

No, Clarinex-D is only available with a prescription from a healthcare provider. If you're looking for a combination medication containing an antihistamine and decongestant that's over the counter (or behind the counter), ask your pharmacist for available options.

Both Clarinex-D and Claritin-D (loratadine / pseudoephedrine) contain the decongestant pseudoephedrine with a different antihistamine: Clarinex-D contains desloratadine while Claritin-D contains loratadine. Desloratadine and loratadine seem to work similarly well, but some people might prefer one over the other. Another difference is that Clarinex-D is only available as a 12-hour tablet that can be taken twice daily. Claritin-D also comes as a 12-hour tablet, as well as a 24-hour tablet that's taken once daily. Additionally, Claritin-D is available over the counter (behind the counter) while Clarinex-D requires a prescription.

Certain states might consider Clarinex-D a controlled substance and have put strict regulations on the medication. This is because the pseudoephedrine in Clarinex-D has the potential to be misused. Keep in mind that state laws change from time to time. So, it’s best to ask your primary care provider or pharmacist whether Clarinex-D is a controlled substance in your state and how to safely take the medication.

Yes, it's possible to feel drowsy after you take Clarinex-D 12-Hour because it contains desloratadine, an antihistamine. But Clarinex-D 12-Hour also contains pseudoephedrine, which can have the opposite effect and make you stay awake. Studies show that Clarinex-D is more likely to cause insomnia (trouble sleeping) than drowsiness. Pay attention to how Clarinex-D affects your sleep. Contact your prescriber to discuss better options for you if it's making you too sleepy or interrupting your sleep and affecting your daily activities.

Clarinex-D isn't known to have a direct interaction with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). But these pain medications aren't the best choice for everyone. For example, acetaminophen (Tylenol) isn't a good option for people who have liver problems. And ibuprofen (Advil) can worsen kidney or heart problems. To be safe, it's best to ask your care team if it's appropriate for you to take Clarinex-D with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).

No, don't take diphenhydramine (Benadryl) with Clarinex-D. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine, just like desloratadine in Clarinex D. Taking multiple antihistamines raises your risk for symptoms of too much medication, which can include poor balance and agitation. To prevent accidentally taking too many similar medications, read the labels carefully of all the medications you're taking. Talk with your pharmacist if you've more questions about medication interactions.

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Risks and warnings for Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

Worsening of medical conditions

Risk factors: Breathing problems (e.g., emphysema, long-term bronchitis) | Glaucoma | Urinary problems | Heart problems | High blood pressure | Thyroid problems | Diabetes

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) typically doesn't cause serious side effects, but it's not the best choice for everyone. Both desloratadine and pseudoephedrine in Clarinex-D 12-Hour can worsen certain medical conditions, including heart problems, prostate problems, and dizziness. It's important to tell your care team about all of your medical conditions before starting Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine). They'll weigh the risks and benefits of prescribing you Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine).

Accidental overdose

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) contains an antihistamine (desloratadine), and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine), which can be found in many other over-the-counter medications. Taking more than one antihistamine or decongestant can lead to symptoms of too much medication, including high blood pressure, anxiety or other behavior changes, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, or even death.

Tell your care team about the medications you take before starting Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) to make sure it's safe for you. Don't start any new medications while taking Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) without talking to your HCP or pharmacist. To prevent an accidental overdose, read package labels carefully. If you're not sure if a product has an antihistamine or decongestant, ask your pharmacist. If you or your loved one experiences an accidental overdose, get medical help right away or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Allergic reactions

Risk factors: Allergy to loratadine (Claritin)

Serious allergic reactions to Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) are possible, including life-threatening problems like anaphylaxis (closing of the throat). Let your care team know if you have an allergy to loratadine (Claritin) since it's chemically similar to Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine). If you notice hives, a rash, swelling of the lips or tongue, or difficulty breathing after using Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine), get medical help right away.

Kidney or liver problems

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) isn't a good choice for people with kidney or liver problems. If you have kidney or liver problems, ask your healthcare team about other options.

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) dosage

The average cost for 60 tablets of 2.5mg/120mg of Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) is $353.67 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 19.55% off the average retail price of $439.61.

Tablet

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
2.5mg/120mg	60 tablets	$353.67	$5.89

Typical dosage for Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)

Each tablet of Clarinex D contains 2.5 mg of desloratadine and 120 mg of pseudoephedrine

Ages 12 years and older: The typical dose is 1 tablet by mouth every 12 hours.

Interactions between Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) and other drugs

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

Dihydroergotamine
Furazolidone
Iproniazid
Isocarboxazid
Linezolid
Methylene Blue
Moclobemide
Nialamide
Phenelzine
Procarbazine
Rasagiline
Safinamide
Selegiline
Tranylcypromine

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

Guanethidine
Iobenguane I 123
Iobenguane I 131
Methyldopa
Midodrine
Pitolisant

How much does Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) cost?

To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.

Clarinex-D (brand)

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$353.67

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Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) contraindications

Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) will not be safe for you to take.

Currently take or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in the last 14 days
Currently have narrow-angle glaucoma
Currently have problems with urinating
Currently have severely high blood pressure or coronary artery disease

What are alternatives to Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)?

There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine). Compare a few possible alternatives below.

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine)

Used for:

Seasonal allergy symptoms (runny or stuffy nose, itchy nose, itchy or watery eyes) in adults and children ages 12 years and older

$353.67Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Zyrtec-D (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine)

Used for:

Short-term relief of allergy symptoms in adults and children ages 12 years and older:

Itchy nose or throat
Sneezing
Itchy or watery eyes
Runny or stuffy nose
Sinus congestion or pressure

$11.94Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Allegra-D (fexofenadine / pseudoephedrine)

Used for:

Short-term relief of allergy symptoms in adults and children ages 12 years and older:

Itchy nose or throat
Sneezing
Itchy or watery eyes
Runny or stuffy nose
Sinus congestion or pressure

$17.02Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Clarinex-D (desloratadine / pseudoephedrine) images

This medicine is Blue And White, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "D12".Blue And White Oval D12 - Clarinex-D 12 Hour 2.5mg-120mg Extended-Release Tablet

References

Best studies we found

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Loratadine. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury.

Organon LLC. (2022). Clarinex-D 12 Hour- desloratadine and pseudoephedrine sulfate tablet, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.

ScienceDirect. (n.d.). Desloratadine.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

Clarinex-D 12 Hour