United Kingdom. Because of reports of oesophageal obstruction and perforation in patients who have taken a round tablet formulation of loratadine + pseudoephedrine sulfate (Claritin-D 24 hour Extended Release Tablets 10 mg + 240 mg: Schering Corporation), the company has withdrawn this formulation and introduced a new oval-shaped tablet to replace it.

Patients are still advised to take the tablet with a full glass of water.

Reference: “Dear Doctor” letter from Schering Corporation, 7 December 1998. [http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/1998/clarit.htm]