What is Aerius? Is Aerius an antibiotic?


The article was professionally consulted by Pharmacist Huynh Xuan Loc - Faculty of Pharmacy - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.

This article has been professionally consulted by Pharmacist Huỳnh Xuân Lộc – Pharmacy Department – Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.

Aerius is the brand name of the medication containing the active ingredient desloratadine. Desloratadine is an H1 antihistamine that acts as an anti-allergy medication, reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy eyes, and watery eyes. The medication also helps relieve itching and hives caused by allergies.

1. Is Aerius an antibiotic and how long should it be used?

Aerius, or desloratadine, is not an antibiotic. The medication only helps reduce allergic symptoms and does not address the underlying cause of the illness. Therefore, the duration of use can be just a few days, but it may sometimes be longer, depending on the duration of contact with the allergen.

Therefore, identifying and avoiding allergens such as pollen, dust, food, other medications, cosmetics, etc., is the way to effectively treat the condition.

2. Dosage of Aerius for adults and children?

Aerius is available on the market in the form of 5mg tablets and 0.5mg/ml syrup. The medication is sold without a prescription at pharmacies, but in some cases, it is still advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist, especially in cases of persistent and prolonged illness.

Aerius is effective in treating skin allergies.
Aerius is effective in treating skin allergies.

3. Dosage based on age

Adults and adolescents (> 12 years old): One Aerius 5mg tablet or 10ml (5mg) syrup, taken once daily.
Children aged 6 to 11 years: 5ml (2.5mg) Aerius syrup, taken once daily.
Children aged 1 to 5 years: 2.5ml (1.25mg) Aerius syrup, taken once daily.
Children aged 6 to 11 months: 2ml (1mg) Aerius syrup, taken once daily.
The medication can be taken with or without food. The above dosage reflects the usual dosage; in some cases, the dosage may vary depending on the doctor’s consideration and the patient's condition.

Images of the forms and dosages of Aerius medication
Images of the forms and dosages of Aerius medication

4. What are the side effects of Aerius?

In general, the medication is safe for both children and adults. Severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, itching, hives, and swelling are very rare. Common side effects when using the medication include fatigue, dry mouth, and headaches.

Other side effects may occur but are very rare, including rash, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, rapid heartbeat, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, muscle pain, etc. Using the medication within the recommended dosage range can help reduce the risk of these side effects.

The medication should also be used with caution in patients with kidney dysfunction or in those with a history or family history of epilepsy, especially in young children. Therefore, patients or their families should inform the treating doctor of these medical conditions to select the appropriate medication and treatment plan.

If you notice any unusual health issues, you should visit and consult with a specialist.

References:
Aerius Usage Guidelines, UptoDate, Desloratadine: Drug Information

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