Loratadine (Claritin)
Loratadine is a medicine used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as runny nose, sneezing, or itchy eyes, nose, or throat.
This medicine is also given to help redness and itching caused by hives.
Loratadine is in class of drugs called antihistamines. It works by blocking the effects of a substance called histamine in your body.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this medicine in 1993.
uses
What is Loratadine (Claritin) used for?
- Allergic Rhinitis
- Urticaria
- Allergic Urticaria
- Physical Urticaria
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Loratadine (Claritin)?
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to loratadine.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:
- kidney disease; or
- liver disease.
The disintegrating tablet may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.
User Reviews & Rating
Overall rating for Loratadine (Claritin)
Side Effects
What are the side effects of Loratadine (Claritin)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common side effects may include:
- headache; or
- feeling tired or drowsy.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Loratadine (Claritin) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Loratadine (Claritin)?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Loratadine (Claritin)?
Use Loratadine (Claritin) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or allergy medicine is only for short-term use.
Loratadine is usually taken once per day.
Swallow the regular tablet whole.
Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Measure liquid medicine with the supplied syringe or a dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
A child's dose is based on age and some forms of loratadine are not for use in children younger than 6 years old. Carefully follow the dosing instructions provided with this medicine.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Loratadine is used when needed. Do not use this medicine more than once in a 24-hour period. Do not use two doses at one time.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Loratadine (Claritin)?
What to Expect
You should start to feel better within about an hour of taking loratadine.
Depending on your condition, you may only need to use this medicine for a short period of time, or you might need to take it longer to treat stubborn allergies.
Generally, it’s considered safe to use loratadine for a long time, but you should only take it if you need it.
Additional Dosage Information
Your dose of loratadine will depend on your age.
The usual dose for adults and kids 6 years and older is 10 milligrams (mg), once a day. The typical dose for children between ages 2 and 5 is 5 mg, once a day.
Secondary Uses
Loratadine may be used for conditions not listed in this medical guide.
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