Generic name: loratadine (lor AT a deen)
Brand name: Claritin
Drug class: Antihistamines
Claritin (loratadine) is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.
Claritin is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other cold or allergy symptoms.
Claritin is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions.
Warnings
You should not take Claritin if you are allergic to loratadine or to desloratadine (Clarinex).
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Some chewable dosage forms of loratadine may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of Claritin if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine if you have liver or kidney disease.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take Claritin if you are allergic to loratadine or to desloratadine (Clarinex).
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:
- asthma;
- kidney disease; or
- liver disease.
Claritin is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Loratadine can pass into breast milk, but is considered compatible with breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Claritin?
Use 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. Cold or allergy medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.
Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old. Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children.
Claritin is usually taken once per day. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Do not crush, chew, or break the regular tablet. Swallow the pill whole.
Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.
To take the orally disintegrating tablet (Claritin RediTab, Alavert):
- Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take it. Open the package and peel back the foil. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may damage the tablet.
- Use dry hands to remove the tablet and place it in your mouth.
- Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. If desired, you may drink liquid to help swallow the dissolved tablet.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
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 the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include headache, drowsiness, and fast or pounding heartbeat.
What to avoid
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Claritin side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Claritin: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Claritin and call your doctor at once if you have:
- fast or uneven heart rate;
- severe headache; or
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
Common Claritin side effects may include:
- headache;
- feeling tired or drowsy;
- stomach pain, vomiting;
- dry mouth; or
- feeling nervous or hyperactive.
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.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose of Claritin for Allergic Rhinitis:
10 mg orally once a day
Usual Adult Dose for Urticaria:
10 mg orally once a day
Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:
2 to 5 years: 5 mg orally once a day (syrup)
6 years or older: 10 mg orally once a day (tablets, capsule, and disintegrating tablets)
Usual Pediatric Dose for Urticaria:
2 to 5 years: 5 mg orally once a day (syrup)
6 years or older: 10 mg orally once a day (tablets, capsule, and disintegrating tablets)
What other drugs will affect Claritin?
Other drugs may interact with loratadine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.