Usage

Loratadine is an antihistamine medication that is commonly used to relieve symptoms associated with allergies. Here are some key points about loratadine:

• Uses: Loratadine is used to treat various allergy symptoms, including hay fever, conjunctivitis (red, itchy eyes), eczema, hives (urticaria), reactions to insect bites and stings, and some food allergies.

• Non-drowsy: Loratadine is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine, meaning it is less likely to cause drowsiness compared to some other antihistamines .

• Dosage: It is typically taken once a day, and the recommended dosage may vary depending on the age and condition being treated. It is available in tablet form or as a liquid.

• Side effects: Common side effects of loratadine may include headache, fatigue, and nervousness, particularly in children. It is generally well-tolerated, but if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it is important to consult a healthcare professional .

• Interactions: Loratadine may interact with certain medications, such as abametapir, aclidinium, acrivastine, and others. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

• Precautions: Loratadine should not be used if you have had an allergic reaction to the medication or any of its ingredients. It is also recommended to avoid alcohol while taking loratadine, as it can increase drowsiness.

Dosage

The dosage of loratadine can vary depending on the age and condition being treated. Here is some information on the recommended dosages:

• For adults: The usual loratadine dosage for adults is 10 mg taken once per day. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist and not exceed the recommended dosage.

• For children: The dosage for children ages 6 years and older is also 10 mg taken once per day. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing instructions for children.

• For children under 6 years or weighing 30 kg or less: Loratadine tablets should not be given to children under 6 years or those weighing 30 kg or less. In such cases, loratadine liquid is recommended instead of tablets.

It is important to note that the maximum recommended dosage for both adults and children taking loratadine is 10 mg in 24 hours.

Side Effects

Loratadine, like any medication, can have side effects. Here are some common side effects associated with loratadine:

• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking loratadine.

• Somnolence (drowsiness): Although loratadine is considered a non-drowsy antihistamine, it can still cause drowsiness in some people.

• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is another possible side effect of loratadine.

• Dry mouth: Loratadine may cause a dry sensation in the mouth.

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Stomach pain and vomiting are potential side effects of loratadine.

• Nervousness or hyperactivity: Some individuals may experience feelings of nervousness or hyperactivity while taking loratadine.

Precaution

When taking loratadine, it is important to be aware of certain precautions. Here is some information regarding loratadine precautions:

• Allergy: Do not use loratadine if you are allergic to loratadine or any of its ingredients.

• Medical conditions: Before taking loratadine, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as kidney disease or liver disease.

• Phenylketonuria (PKU): The disintegrating tablet form of loratadine may contain phenylalanine, which can be harmful to individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU). If you have PKU, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using this form of loratadine.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using loratadine to assess the potential risks and benefits.

Overdose

An overdose of loratadine can occur if you take more than the recommended dosage. While loratadine is generally considered safe, an overdose can lead to various symptoms and complications. Here is some information on loratadine overdose:

• Symptoms: Symptoms of loratadine overdose can vary and may include fever, flushing, dilated pupils, fast heart rate (tachycardia), low blood pressure (hypotension), coma, and an inability to empty the bladder completely (urinary retention).

• Severity: Overdosing on loratadine is generally rare, and second-generation antihistamines like loratadine tend to have less serious effects in overdose compared to first-generation antihistamines.

• Treatment: If you suspect an overdose of loratadine, it is important to seek medical help immediately. You can call the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. If severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, seizures, or loss of consciousness occur, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Interaction

Loratadine may interact with certain medications. Here is some information on loratadine interactions:

• Pseudoephedrine: There is no known drug interaction between loratadine and pseudoephedrine. However, some combination medications, such as Claritin-D, contain both loratadine and pseudoephedrine. It is important to check the ingredients before combining medications.

• Fluticasone: Fluticasone (Flonase) and loratadine (Claritin) are sometimes used together for relieving allergies and do not have any significant drug interactions.

• Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen and loratadine can generally be used together.

• Grapefruit juice: Unlike fexofenadine (Allegra), it is generally safe to consume loratadine with grapefruit juice.

Mechanism

Loratadine is an antihistamine medication that is commonly used to relieve symptoms associated with allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. Here are some key mechanisms of loratadine:

• Antihistamine activity: Loratadine works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that is released during an allergic reaction. By blocking histamine, loratadine helps to alleviate allergy symptoms.

• Selective H1 receptor antagonist: Loratadine is relatively specific for the H1 receptor, which is responsible for mediating allergic responses. By selectively blocking the H1 receptor, loratadine reduces the effects of histamine on target tissues.

• Limited central nervous system penetration: Unlike some older antihistamines, loratadine has limited penetration into the central nervous system. This means that it is less likely to cause drowsiness or sedation when taken at recommended doses.

• Metabolism: Loratadine is extensively metabolized in the liver through a first-pass mechanism. It undergoes hepatic metabolism to form its active metabolite, desloratadine, which has a higher affinity for H1 receptors compared to loratadine itself.

Disclaimer

It is important to talk to a healthcare provider or pharmacist about all medications and supplements being taken, to determine whether any interactions may occur. They can advise on the appropriate use and dosage of aspirin to avoid any potential drug interactions.