Allerta®

Uses

What is Allerta® used for?

Allerta® (loratadine) is a type of drug known as an antihistamine. Allerta® works by binding to histamine H-₁ receptors on various cells throughout the body, including white blood cells. By blocking histamine, it prevents symptoms such as sneezing, itchiness, redness, inflammation, and runny nose.

Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine so it is less sedating than first-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine.

Allerta® is used to treat the following:

• Allergic rhinitis
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Itchy, watery eyes
• Skin symptoms of allergy such as itch and rash

How should I take Allerta®?

Allerta® is available as an oral tablet. The tablet should be taken by mouth. It should be swallowed whole without chewing or crushing it. It can be taken with or without food.

Although Allerta® is less sedating, it can still cause drowsiness in some people. It is best to take it at night when possible and avoid taking it before driving or operating machinery.

How do I store Allerta®?

This drug should be stored at room temperature (<30°C) and be protected from moisture. Do not freeze this product. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Always check the label before using this product. Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency.

Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using Allerta®?

Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:

• You have ever had an allergic reaction to Allerta® or other antihistamines.
• You have a history of allergy to other medications, food, or other substances.
• You are taking other medications.
• You have underlying health conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Loratadine is a pregnancy category B drug. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies using Allerta® in pregnant women, however, animal studies have shown no teratogenic risk. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.

This drug may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.

Side Effects

What side effects can occur when using Allerta®?

All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.

Potential side effects while using this drug include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Agitation, irritability
• Nervousness
• Conjunctivitis
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth or eyes
• Nose bleeds
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Wheezing
• Sore throat
• Hyperkinesia
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea

Severe adverse reactions:

• Abnormal liver function
• Hair loss
• Anaphylaxis
• Breast enlargement
• Erythema multiforme
• Peripheral edema
• Seizure
• Thrombocytopenia

You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you experience serious adverse reactions, you must stop taking the drug immediately. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Allerta®?

This drug may interact with other medications. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

Known drugs and their interactions with medication include:

• Sedatives
  • Increased symptoms of drowsiness
• Hypnotics
  • Increased symptoms of drowsiness
• Other antihistamines
  • Increased symptoms of drowsiness
• Drugs that affect the liver (e.g. paracetamol, oral contraceptives)
  • Increased risk of liver damage

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.

Does food or alcohol interact with Allerta®?

There are no known food interactions with Allerta®, however, it is best to take this medication with meals. Do not take Allerta® with alcohol as it may potentiate the effects of drowsiness and CNS depression.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.

What health conditions may interact with Allerta®?

This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:

• History of epilepsy
• Diabetes mellitus

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Allerta®.

What is the dose of Allerta® for an adult?

For treating allergic rhinitis or allergy symptoms

• Take one tablet per day.

What is the dose of Allerta® for a child?

For treating allergic rhinitis or allergy symptoms

• Ages 2 years and above weighing >30 kg: same as the adult dose.
• Ages 2 to 12 years weighing <30 kg: give ½ of a tablet.
• Ages <2 years: the recommended dose has not been established. Do not give this medication unless directed by a doctor.

How is Allerta® available?

This drug is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Allerta® tablet 10 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of this drug, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.