Loratadine (Anti-Allergy, Antihistamine)

Loratadine is a generic antihistamine drug. Antihistamines block the receptors that are responsible for allergic reactions and symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, and itchiness. It is a second-generation antihistamine, so it is less sedating than first-generation antihistamines.

Uses

What is loratadine used for?

• Allergic rhinitis
• Urticaria (hives)
• Seasonal allergies
• Other allergic conditions

How should I take loratadine?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For regular oral tablets, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid. Take it with or without meals. Oral syrups are also available. Use a medical-grade measuring cup for each dose, not a household spoon.’

For chewable tablets, chew it completely before swallowing. Do not swallow the tablet whole or dissolve it in liquid.

How do I store loratadine?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer.

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using loratadine?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions, especially:
  • Kidney impairment

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from loratadine?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Dry mouth, sore throat, cough
• Muscle pain
• Drowsiness, tired feeling
• Nausea, diarrhea
• Headache

Seek medical attention if you experience the following effects:

• Fast, pounding heartbeat
• Arrhythmia
• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms
• Seizure (convulsions)
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with loratadine?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

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. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Azole antifungals
• Macrolide antibiotics
• Cimetidine
• Sedative-hypnotics
• Other antihistamines
• Alcohol-containing preparations

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with loratadine?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not drink alcohol while taking this drug. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with loratadine?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Allergic conditions

Take 10 mg once a day or 5 mg two times a day.

What is the dose for a child?

Allergic conditions

Based on age and body weight:

• 12 years and above: Same dose as an adult.
• 2 years to 11 years: Weighing less than 30 kg, give 5 mg once a day. For children that weigh more than 30 kg, give 10 mg once a day.
• Do not give this medication to children under 2 years old.

How is loratadine available?

Loratadine is available in the following brands, dosage forms, and strengths:

• Allerta tablet 10 mg
• Allisin  chewable tablet 10 mg
• Claritin tablet 10 mg, syrup 5 mg/5 mL, Reditabs 10 mg
• Lorange chewable tablet 10 mg
• Loratyne tablets 10 mg
• RiteMed loratadine 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 the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, 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.