Schering-Plough says that the US regulators have given the green light to a re-formulation of its allergy medicine, Clarinex (desloratadine), which dissolves in the mouth.

Clarinex Reditabs have been approved in a 2.5mg and 5mg dose formulations for the treatment of allergy symptoms caused by both perennial indoor and seasonal outdoor allergens and chronic idiopathic urticaria, or hives of unknown cause, in adults and children aged six years and older. The tablet is taken once-daily for 24-hour relief, and is expected to be available in pharmacies around the USA in September 2005.

The company said that the tablets, which come in a new “tutti frutti” flavour, are more convenient for patients, particularly those without ready access to water, or who dislike swallowing pills.