Claritin (loratadine) is a second-generation, non-sedating antihistamine indicated for the effective management of seasonal and perennial allergic conditions. As a selective peripheral H1 receptor antagonist, it works by blocking the action of histamine, a key chemical mediator responsible for allergic symptoms, without significantly penetrating the blood-brain barrier. This mechanism provides potent relief from rhinorrhea, sneezing, ocular pruritus, and lacrimation, while its favorable pharmacokinetic profile supports a 24-hour duration of action from a single daily dose. It is available in multiple formulations, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and syrup, to accommodate a wide range of patient needs and preferences, making it a cornerstone in over-the-counter allergy management.

Features

• Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: Loratadine 10 mg (tablets), Loratadine 5 mg/5 mL (syrup).
• Pharmacological Class: Second-generation, selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist.
• Duration of Action: Provides 24-hour relief from allergy symptoms with a single dose.
• Formulations: Coated tablets, rapidly disintegrating RediTabs, and pleasant-tasting syrup.
• Onset of Action: Symptom relief typically begins within 1-3 hours after administration.
• Excipients: Formulations are generally gluten-free and lactose-free (check specific product packaging).

Benefits

• Sustained Symptom Control: Experience a full day of relief from the most common allergy symptoms, including runny nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes.
• Cognitive Clarity: Its non-drowsy formula allows you to maintain alertness, focus, and operate machinery safely, supporting normal daily activities.
• Pediatric Applicability: The syrup formulation is approved for use in children as young as 2 years, providing a safe and effective option for family allergy care.
• Convenient Dosing: A single daily dose simplifies treatment regimens, improving adherence and consistent symptom management.
• Rapid Onset: Begin feeling relief from disruptive allergy symptoms within a few hours of taking the medication.

Common use

Claritin is primarily used for the relief of symptoms associated with:

• Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Including sneezing, rhinorrhea (runny nose), pruritus (itching) of the nose/palate/throat, and ocular pruritus and lacrimation (itchy, watery eyes).
• Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: Year-round allergies triggered by indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores.
• Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria: For the relief of red, raised, itchy welts (hives) on the skin with no known cause.

Dosage and direction

• Adults and Children 6 years and older: The standard dose is 10 mg (one tablet or two teaspoonfuls [10 mL] of syrup) once daily.
• Children 2 to 5 years: The recommended dose is 5 mg (one teaspoonful [5 mL] of syrup) once daily.
• Children under 2 years: Consult a physician for use.
• Administration: Can be taken with or without food. For the RediTabs formulation, place the tablet on the tongue; it disintegrates rapidly with or without water. Do not remove the blister until ready to use.
• Dosing in Hepatic or Renal Impairment: For patients with liver or kidney disease, a reduced dosage of 10 mg every other day is recommended. Consult a healthcare provider.

Precautions

• While Claritin is classified as non-drowsy, individual responses can vary. Exercise caution when driving or operating hazardous machinery until you are sure how the medication affects you.
• Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should only be undertaken if clearly needed and after consultation with a healthcare professional.
• The tablets may contain phenylalanine (aspartame); individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should check the label.
• If an allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
• Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Contraindications

Claritin is contraindicated in patients with:

• A known hypersensitivity to loratadine or to any of the inactive ingredients in the formulation.
• Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min) without appropriate dosage adjustment.

Possible side effect

Claritin is generally well-tolerated. When side effects do occur, they are typically mild and transient. Reported side effects include:

• Headache (most common)
• Somnolence (drowsiness)
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Nervousness
• Tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) or palpitations have been reported very rarely.

Drug interaction

• CNS Depressants: While the potential is low, concomitant use with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids) could theoretically enhance sedative effects.
• Macrolide Antibiotics & Antifungals: Ketoconazole, erythromycin, and cimetidine may increase plasma concentrations of loratadine due to inhibition of its metabolism via cytochrome P450 3A4 and 2D6 enzymes. While this is not considered clinically significant at standard OTC doses, monitoring is advised with high doses or in compromised patients.
• No clinically significant interactions have been found with pseudoephedrine or warfarin.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the usual dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may be dose-related and include somnolence (drowsiness), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and headache. In case of suspected overdose, contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) or emergency room immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if performed soon after ingestion.

Storage

• Store at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Protect from excessive moisture and light. Keep the tablets in their original blister package until use.
• Keep the bottle of syrup tightly closed.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Read and follow all label instructions on the product packaging.

Reviews

“After struggling with daytime drowsiness from other allergy medications, my doctor recommended Claritin. The difference is night and day. I get complete relief from my spring allergies without any foggy feeling, allowing me to be fully present at work and with my family. It’s a staple in our household.” – Sarah K., Verified Purchaser

“As a pediatrician, I often recommend Claritin syrup for my young patients suffering from environmental allergies. It’s effective, has a favorable safety profile, and the taste is generally well-accepted by children, which makes adherence much easier for parents.” – Dr. Evan R., Healthcare Professional

“I’ve used Claritin for years to manage my chronic hives. It’s the only over-the-counter medication that consistently controls the itching and appearance of welts without making me sleepy. The 24-hour relief means I only have to think about it once a day.” – Michael T., Long-term User