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Can I Take Triamterene & Claritin D?

Today's market offers a vast array of both prescription and over-the-counter treatments for nasal allergies and congestion. One example is the widely available Claritin D. However, certain ingredients in these products may pose a risk to those taking other prescription medications.

  1. Triamterene

    • According to Drugs.com, triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it helps to prevent or relieve fluid retention in the body without removing necessary potassium. The National Institute of Health's Daily Med reports that triamterene is used alone or in combination with other diuretics to treat edema, or swelling due to water retention, in patients who suffer from conditions such as congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, impaired kidney function or an excess of aldosterone, a hormone that regulates the body's salt and water balance. Triamterene's side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, dizziness and headache.

    Claritin D

    • Claritin D is the brand name for the combination of the antihistamine loratadine and the decongestant pseudoephedrine, used to treat nasal allergies and congestion. Side effects of Claritin D include rapid or irregular heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, anxiety or restlessness, insomnia, flu-like symptoms and decreased urination. Because it contains pseudoephedrine, retailers must keep a record of over-the-counter Claritin D sales, but it can be purchased with or without a prescription.

    Combination

    • Check with your doctor before taking triamterene and Claritin D together. Drugs.com does not report any direct reactions between triamterene and Claritin D. However, the site does specify that you should consult with your doctor before taking Claritin D if you are taking diuretics or blood pressure medications. The primary reason for this is due to pseudoephedrine's potential to raise blood pressure and Claritin D's potential for decreased urination.

    Alternatives

    • Alternatives to Claritin D include regular Claritin or the generic equivalent, loratadine, which does not contain pseudoephedrine. You may also choose to use another antihistamine, or a decongestant such as chlorpheniramine that will not raise blood pressure. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants if you take prescription medication.

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