Loratadine – what it is for, how to use it, precautions and side effects!

Loratadine is an anti – allergy that reduces the effects of histamine a natural chemical in the body and your histamine symptoms are sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, rash, itching and other symptoms of constipation or allergies.  In addition, this medication  is also used to treat hives and itchy skin  in people with chronic skin reactions .

What is loratadine?

This medication is an antihistamine that treats symptoms like itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing from “hay fever” and other allergies. It is also used to relieve hives itching.

Loratadine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). So, if your doctor has prescribed it to treat allergic reactions, always carry your adrenaline injector with you.

If you self-treat with this medication, it’s important to carefully read the manufacturer’s package instructions so you know when to see your doctor or pharmacist. (See also the Precautions section.)

If you are using the tablets or capsules, do not use in children under 6 years of age unless directed by a doctor. If you are using liquid or chewable tablets, do not use in children under 2 years of age unless directed by a doctor.

What is loratadine used for?

Loratadine is used to temporarily relieve the symptoms of hay fever (allergy to pollen, dust, or other substances in the air) and other allergies. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, nose, or throat. it is also used to treat the itching and redness caused by hives.

When should I use loratadine?

You can take a dose of loratadine as needed to reduce occasional allergy symptoms once they start. Or you can take it in anticipation of the onset of allergic symptoms, for example. You can take a dose before leaving home.

If you know there will be a high pollen count or if you are visiting friends of a pet you are allergic to. You can also take loratadine regularly every day to avoid symptoms, such as during pollen season.

How to take loratadine?

Use loratadine 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. Also, the  drug  is usually only taken for a short time until your symptoms clear up.

• Do not give this medicine  to a child under 2 years of age. Always ask a doctor before giving cough or cold medicine. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children.
• Loratadine is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor’s instructions. Do not crush, chew or break the regular tablet. Swallow the pill whole. Measure the liquid medication with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dosing spoon or medication  cup . If you do not have a dose measuring device, ask your pharmacist.
• The chewable tablet must be chewed before swallowing. To take the orally disintegrating tablet (Claritin RediTab, Alavert):
• Keep in its blister pack until you are ready to take it. Open the package and remove the foil. Do not push through the sheet or you may damage it. Use dry hands to remove the tablet and place it in your mouth.
• Do not swallow the tablet whole. Let it dissolve in your mouth without chewing. If you wish, you can drink liquid to help swallow the dissolved tablet. Call your doctor if your symptoms don’t improve or get worse. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Who cannot take loratadine?

Loratadine can be taken by adults and children aged 2 years and older as it is not suitable for some people. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:

• Have been allergic to loratadine or any other medication in the past;
• You have severe liver failure;
• Intolerance or cannot absorb some sugars, such as lactose or sucrose;
• Have epilepsy or another illness that puts you at risk for seizures;
• You have a rare disease called porphyria;
• It is reserved to take an allergy test taking loratadine can affect the results;

Can someone with high blood pressure take loratadine?

Claritin (and the equivalent generic loratadine ) is a second-generation antihistamine or allergy medication. It reduces allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine in the body. A once-daily dose of 10 mg usually provides adults with relief from allergic symptoms with few side effects. The most common side effects are headache, drowsiness or fatigue, and dry mouth.

Loratadine does not affect blood pressure in most adults. In rare cases, it can affect heart rate or even lower blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, it’s always a good idea to monitor it regularly, especially when you’re taking other medications. If your blood pressure is not adequately controlled, we recommend that you visit your doctor.

You can sometimes find loratadine paired with the decongestant pseudoephedrine (sold under the brand names Claritin-D, Alavert-D, and others). This combination can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Decongestants are avoided by people with high blood pressure and uncontrolled heart rate problems. If you are not sure if pseudoephedrine is appropriate, talk to a licensed healthcare professional before use.

Loratadine Dosage:

• Allergic rhinitis: 10 mg orally once daily.
• Urticaria: 10 mg orally once daily.
• Pediatric dose for allergic rhinitis: 2 to 5 years: 5 mg orally once daily (syrup); 6 years and older: 10 mg orally once daily (tablets, capsule and disintegrating tablets)
• Pediatric dose for hives: 2 to 5 years: 5 mg orally once daily (syrup); 6 years and older: 10 mg orally once daily (tablets, capsule and disintegrating tablets)

What happens if I miss a dose of loratadine?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Loratadine overdose:

People who take more than the recommended 10 mg of loratadine per day are at greater risk of intense drowsiness, rapid heart rate, and headaches. Children who take more than the recommended 10 mg may actually start to move and behave similarly to people who have Parkinson’s disease . If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Loratadine side effects:

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to loratadine : hives; breathing difficulty; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Stop using this medication  and call your doctor right away if you have:

• Fast or irregular heart rate;
• Severe headache;
• A dizzy feeling, as if you were going to pass out.

Common loratadine side effects can include:

• Headache ;
• Feeling tired or sleepy;
• Stomach pain, vomiting;
• Dry mouth;
• Feeling nervous or hyperactive .