ACTILOR 5mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is ACTILOR 5mg

ACTILOR 5mg tablets contain Desloratadine as the active ingredient, a second-generation antihistamine used primarily for managing allergic conditions. It belongs to a class of medications that effectively relieve symptoms caused by the body's release of histamine during allergic reactions. The 5mg dosage in a film-coated tablet form is designed for adults and adolescents, typically supplied in packs of 20 tablets (2 blisters of 10 tablets each), providing a convenient treatment course.

• Treats seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
• Used for chronic idiopathic urticaria, where it helps reduce itching and hives without sedation.
• Can also be used for other allergic skin conditions causing itching and rashes.
• Desloratadine is favored for its selective peripheral H1 receptor antagonism, minimizing sedation compared to first-generation antihistamines.
• The film-coated tablets ensure ease of swallowing and protect the active ingredient from degradation.

Overall, ACTILOR 5mg tablets offer effective allergy symptom control, improving patients’ comfort and quality of life with a well-tolerated safety profile.

How to use ACTILOR 5mg

Proper administration of ACTILOR 5mg tablets ensures optimal effectiveness and safety. Key usage instructions include:

• Recommended Dose: One 5mg tablet once daily for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water. It can be taken with or without food. Taking with food may help reduce stomach upset but is not necessary.
• Consistency: Take the tablet at the same time every day to maintain steady blood levels.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s near the next dose time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Duration of Treatment: Use for the full duration prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve sooner.
• Precautions: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver or kidney problems, or are taking other medications before starting ACTILOR.
• Do Not Share: Use only as prescribed and do not share with others, as dosages and indications may differ.

Following these guidelines helps maximize therapeutic benefits and minimizes risks of side effects or ineffective treatment.

Mode of Action ACTILOR 5mg

Desloratadine, the active ingredient in ACTILOR 5mg, works by specifically targeting histamine H1 receptors to alleviate allergy symptoms. Its mode of action involves:

• Histamine Release: Allergic reactions trigger mast cells to release histamine, which binds to H1 receptors on blood vessels and nerves, causing itching, swelling, nasal congestion, and redness.
• H1 Receptor Antagonism: Desloratadine competitively binds to peripheral H1 receptors, blocking histamine from activating these receptors and thereby preventing allergic symptoms.
• Peripheral Selectivity: Unlike first-generation antihistamines, desloratadine crosses the blood-brain barrier minimally, reducing central nervous system side effects such as drowsiness.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: It also inhibits the release of other inflammatory mediators from mast cells, enhancing its symptom control.
• Long Duration: Desloratadine has a long half-life, allowing once-daily dosing with sustained effect.

This mechanism makes ACTILOR 5mg an effective and well-tolerated option for treating a range of allergic disorders.

ACTILOR 5mg Interactions ACTILOR 5mg

While desloratadine is generally safe, some drug interactions should be considered to avoid adverse effects or reduced efficacy:

• CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 Enzyme Inhibitors: Medications such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, cimetidine, and ritonavir can inhibit the enzymes metabolizing desloratadine, potentially raising its blood levels and increasing side effect risks.
• Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Although desloratadine is non-sedating, combining with alcohol or sedatives might enhance drowsiness or impair alertness.
• Other Antihistamines: Avoid using ACTILOR alongside other H1 antihistamines to prevent additive side effects.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): There is no known direct interaction, but caution is advised when combining with other CNS-acting drugs.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to assess possible interactions.

Regular monitoring and medical advice ensure safe concurrent medication use with ACTILOR.

Dosage of ACTILOR 5mg

Appropriate dosing of ACTILOR 5mg ensures symptom control while minimizing risks. The dosing guidelines are:

• Adults and Adolescents (12 years and older): One 5mg tablet once daily, orally.
• Children Under 12 Years: ACTILOR 5mg tablets are not recommended; syrup formulations are preferred.
• Elderly Patients: Standard adult dosing is typically appropriate, but monitor for tolerability.
• Patients with Hepatic or Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be required depending on the severity of organ dysfunction; consult your physician.
• Duration: Therapy duration varies based on the condition and physician’s recommendations; long-term use should be monitored.

Strict adherence to prescribed dosages ensures effective allergy management and reduces side effect risks.

Possible side effects of ACTILOR 5mg

ACTILOR 5mg tablets are generally well tolerated. However, some patients may experience side effects, which include:

• Common Side Effects: Headache, fatigue, dry mouth, and mild dizziness are the most frequently reported.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Nausea, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea may occasionally occur.
• CNS Effects: Although rare, mild sedation or nervousness can occur.
• Allergic Reactions: Hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing require urgent medical attention.
• Other Rare Effects: Palpitations or sleep disturbances may occur in very few cases.

If side effects are persistent, severe, or troubling, patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Reporting unusual symptoms can help ensure prompt management.

ACTILOR 5mg Contraindications ACTILOR 5mg

ACTILOR 5mg tablets are contraindicated in the following situations:

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to desloratadine, loratadine, or any tablet excipients.
• Severe Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution or avoid in significant liver dysfunction due to altered drug metabolism.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 12 years in tablet form.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Should only be used if clearly needed and under medical supervision, as safety data are limited.
• Other Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, heart disease, or any chronic illnesses.

Proper evaluation before starting ACTILOR minimizes risks and ensures safe use.

Storage of ACTILOR 5mg

To maintain the quality and effectiveness of ACTILOR 5mg tablets, proper storage conditions should be observed:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Protection from Moisture and Light: Keep tablets in their original blister packs until use, protecting them from humidity and direct sunlight.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store in a secure place away from children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Expiration Date: Do not use tablets past their expiry date. Dispose of expired or unused medication safely.
• Disposal: Follow local regulations for disposal of medicines, preferably through pharmacy take-back programs.

Adhering to these storage guidelines preserves medication efficacy and safety throughout its shelf life.