Medication guide
Loratadine
- Generic name
- Loratadine
- Common brand names
- Claritin
- Medication class
- Second-generation antihistamine
Overview
Its medication class is Second-generation antihistamine. Common uses include Seasonal/perennial allergies and hives. Product forms and labels can differ, so follow the specific package instructions and ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional about individual questions.
How to Take it
- Route
- Oral tablet/syrup.
- Time of day
- Usually once daily in the morning.
- With food/water
- Take with or without food; use 120–240 mL water.
- Preparation
- Swallow tablets whole.
- Safe dose
- Use the labeled standard dose (often 1 tablet) unless age-adjusted.
- Max dose
- Do not exceed one label-defined daily dose and avoid duplicate antihistamines.
- Frequency
- Once every 24 hours unless label says otherwise.
- Other recommendations
- Use caution if driving until individualized response to sedation is known.
Common uses
- Seasonal/perennial allergies and hives
Common side effects
- Dry mouth
- headache
- fatigue
- dizziness
- nausea
- and mild somnolence
Important warnings
- Use cautiously in liver/kidney impairment and avoid exceeding age-appropriate dosing. Avoid multiple loratadine-containing products because repeated dosing can increase adverse effects. Seek urgent care if swelling of face/throat, severe rash, dyspnea, or persistent sedation/dizziness.
General interactions information
Few major interactions; avoid unnecessary combination with other antihistamines.
Sources / references
- Loratadine — MedlinePlus
U.S. National Library of Medicine
These references offer further reading. A source link does not establish that a clinician has reviewed every statement in this guide.
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