LORATADINE
Brand name Clarityn
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Loratadine, a long-acting antihistamine drug, is used for the relief of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, nasal discharge, and itching and burning of the eyes. Symptoms are normally relieved within an hour of oral administration. Loratadine is also used to treat allergic skin conditions such as chronic urticaria (itching). An advantage of loratadine over older antihistamines, such as chlorpheniramine, is that it has fewer sedative and anticholinergic effects, so this drug is less likely to cause drowsiness.
Loratadine should be discontinued about four days prior to skin testing for allergy as it may decrease or prevent otherwise positive results.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Follow instructions on the label. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen.
How taken
Tablets, liquid.
Frequency and timing of doses
Once daily.
Adult dosage range
10mg daily.
Onset of effect
Usually within 1 hour.
Duration of action
Up to 24 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 6 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The incidence of adverse effects with loratadine is low.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Antihistamine
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed No
Available as generic No
INTERACTIONS
None.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this drug if:
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk, but effects on the baby are unlikely.
Infants and children
Not recommended for children under 2 years. Reduced dose necessary for older children.
Over 60
No problems expected.
Driving and hazardous work
Problems are unlikely.
Alcohol
No known problems, but avoid excessive amounts.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected.
