ACTILOR 5mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is ACTILOR 5mg

ACTILOR 5mg tablets contain Desloratadine as the active ingredient, which is a modern, non-sedating antihistamine medication. It is primarily used to treat allergic conditions by relieving symptoms caused by histamine release in the body. These allergic conditions include:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), which causes sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy or watery eyes
• Chronic idiopathic urticaria, characterized by recurrent hives and itching without a clear trigger
• Other allergic skin disorders involving itching and rashes

Desloratadine is part of the second generation of antihistamines, offering effective allergy relief with minimal sedative effects compared to older first-generation antihistamines. ACTILOR 5mg comes in a film-coated tablet form, making it convenient for adults and children above 12 years who can swallow tablets. The 10-tablet blister pack offers a practical supply for short-term or ongoing allergy management.

Overall, ACTILOR 5mg tablets are a well-established option to help control allergic symptoms and improve patient quality of life without causing drowsiness.

How to use ACTILOR 5mg

Proper administration of ACTILOR tablets is important to maximize benefits and reduce the risk of side effects. Consider the following points when using ACTILOR 5mg:

• Dosage: The usual recommended dose for adults and children over 12 years is one 5mg tablet once daily.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water. It can be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may reduce potential stomach upset.
• Timing: Take at the same time every day to maintain an even level of medication in your body.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up.
• Duration: Continue treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve early. Do not stop abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Consultation: Discuss with your doctor before starting if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver or kidney issues, or are taking other medications.

Following these instructions ensures the medication works effectively and safely.

Mode of Action ACTILOR 5mg

The active compound in ACTILOR 5mg tablets, Desloratadine, is a selective antagonist of peripheral histamine H1 receptors. Here is how it works:

• Histamine Release: During allergic reactions, mast cells release histamine, which binds to H1 receptors on blood vessels and nerves causing symptoms such as itching, swelling, redness, and mucus secretion.
• H1 Receptor Blockade: Desloratadine binds selectively and competitively to H1 receptors, preventing histamine from activating these receptors.
• Reduction of Allergy Symptoms: By blocking histamine, desloratadine reduces sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rash.
• Non-Sedative Action: Unlike first-generation antihistamines, desloratadine minimally crosses the blood-brain barrier, thus it does not usually cause sedation or impair mental alertness.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Desloratadine also inhibits the release of other inflammatory mediators from mast cells, contributing to long-lasting relief of allergy symptoms.

This dual action makes ACTILOR 5mg highly effective and well-tolerated for managing allergic conditions.

ACTILOR 5mg Interactions ACTILOR 5mg

Desloratadine is generally considered safe with a low potential for drug interactions, but some interactions are noteworthy:

• CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 Inhibitors: Drugs like ketoconazole, erythromycin, and cimetidine can inhibit the enzymes responsible for desloratadine metabolism, potentially increasing its blood levels and side effects.
• Ritonavir and Other Potent CYP3A4 Inhibitors: These may also elevate desloratadine plasma concentrations; monitoring or dose adjustments might be necessary.
• Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Although desloratadine is non-sedating, combining it with alcohol or sedatives may increase drowsiness or impair cognitive functions.
• Other Antihistamines: Avoid concurrent use of other H1 antihistamines to prevent additive side effects.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): No direct interaction is documented, but caution is advised when combining different nervous system agents.

Always inform your healthcare provider of all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting ACTILOR.

Dosage of ACTILOR 5mg

The standard dosing for ACTILOR 5mg tablets is straightforward but should be personalized by a healthcare professional:

• Adults and Adolescents (12 years and above): 5mg (one tablet) orally once daily.
• Elderly: The same dose is typically used, but clinical monitoring is recommended in frail patients.
• Patients with Hepatic or Renal Impairment: Dose adjustments may be necessary; consult your doctor.
• Children under 12 years: ACTILOR 5mg tablets are generally not recommended; syrup formulations are preferred for pediatric use.
• Maximum Duration: Treatment duration depends on the condition; some allergic symptoms may require prolonged therapy under medical supervision.

Adherence to prescribed dosing ensures optimal effectiveness and minimizes risk.

Possible side effects of ACTILOR 5mg

ACTILOR 5mg is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it may cause side effects in some individuals. These include:

• Common Side Effects: Headache, fatigue, dry mouth, and mild dizziness.
• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea may occasionally occur.
• Central Nervous System: Rarely, patients report mild sedation or nervousness, despite its non-sedative design.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, severe allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.
• Others: Palpitations or sleep disturbances have been reported but are uncommon.

If any side effect persists, worsens, or if you experience any severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. It is important to report any unexpected or unusual reactions.

ACTILOR 5mg Contraindications ACTILOR 5mg

ACTILOR 5mg tablets should not be used in the following conditions:

• Known Hypersensitivity: Allergy to desloratadine, loratadine, or any other tablet components.
• Severe Liver Disease: Use is contraindicated or requires caution in patients with significant hepatic impairment.
• Children Under 12 Years: The tablet form is not recommended for children younger than 12; syrup is preferred.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Safety has not been firmly established; use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Other Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart problems, or any chronic illness before using ACTILOR.

Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential before starting therapy to avoid complications.

Storage of ACTILOR 5mg

Proper storage is critical to maintain the effectiveness and safety of ACTILOR tablets:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Avoid extremes of heat or cold.
• Humidity and Light: Keep the tablets in their original blister pack until use, protecting them from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Secure Location: Store out of reach and sight of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do Not Use Expired Medication: Check expiration dates and discard tablets that are out of date or show signs of deterioration.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired medicine according to local regulations, preferably through pharmacy take-back programs.

Following these storage recommendations helps ensure that ACTILOR remains safe and effective throughout its shelf life.