Anyone who's kids take Alavert/Claritin on a daily basis?

[BabyTigger99]

DS6 just went in for his 7 year check up, and the doctor mentioned that with his dark circles under his eyes, and that I told him that DS's eyes are always dry, he probably has dust mite allergies and should take either Claritin or Alavert once a day. Does anyone else have kids that do this? Are there any side effects I should worry about?

 

[golfgal]

Personally I would take him to an allergist for a full evaluation. It may or may not be dust mites. It could be a whole host of other causes (allergens). DD11 takes Claritin daily as do I. As far as side effects, nothing major, some mouth dryness or similar problems. DS14 and DS11 have more severe allergies and Claritin does nothing for them.

The circles under the eyes is a BIG indicator of allergies though.

 

[kpm76]

Well, I am an adult and take Claritin everyday. Bad side effects only happen when I DON'T take the Claritin. I am not sure how it affects children but I would also suggest that you see an allergist. They will do a host of tests (no big deal) to determine what your son is allergic to and the best way to treat the allergies. Good luck!

 

[Violet Crayon]

My brother experienced really bad headaches and nosebleeds on Claritin and had to switch to Allegra. But I used Claritin for the same few months and experienced nothing other than a overly dry nose (which is better than a stuffy one).

 

[mom2of2]

my Dr put my 8 yr old on both alavert and singular this past spring and it has made a huge difference. We haven't had any side effects other then not being itchy, sneezy, runny anymore.
Give it a try and see if it helps. Try the alavert, it melts and tastes good.

 

[CathrynRose]

The dark circles can be allergies. Both my boys have them pretty bad if they dont take their drugs.

 

[waltsgirl]

My 6 yr old DD has been taking Claritin daily since she was 4. She also takes Advair for her asthma. She has had no side effects.

 

[mrsv98]

DD, 6yo, takes a half of a Claritin every night (she is on the small side) or a whole one if she is really itchy. She has never exhibited any side-effects and does well taking it. Her issues are more skin related, her excema tends to flair up without it, but if she trakes it everyday, her skin stays clear and rash free.

 

[minnieandme]

DS12 takes Claritin but only in the spring-early summer. Since he has asthma, the Claritin helps keep the asthma under control. If he doesn't take it, his allergies will make him wheeze really bad, then we end up in the emergency room. But overall, no side effects for him.

 

[curlybop]

My 4 year old is on Clarinex. She had problems with ear infections, sinus problems, etc. Since starting it this year, no sickness at all.

 

[tw1nsmom]

DS6 takes Alavert during tree pollen season and now during Ragweed season. There are no noticable side effect.

 

[Froggyswife]

Some people get severe headaches and nosebleeds (hello me lol my dd is the same way.)

 

[Kahana-ri]

Our pediatrician told us the same thing for our 2 yr old. During the start of allergy season I did switch off on using Dimeatab (sp) and Claritin. Only during the worst of the season though. I don't like to give our son anything if I don't have too. Claritin seemed to be really strong too. If I felt he could do without it a night or two, I gave him a break. He made it through with no problems, but like you I had concerns for everyday use.
I agree with a PP. An allergy specialist would be a great person to speak to.