Loratadine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Loratadine (lor-A-ta-deen)

Treats allergy (hay fever) symptoms and hives. This medicine is an antihistamine.

Brand Name(s):

Claritin, Leader Allergy Relief, Family Pharmacy Allergy Relief, Children's Clear-Atadine, Rite Aid Loratadine, Claritin Liqui-Gels, Children's Claritin, Quality Choice Loratadine, The Medicine Shoppe Allergy Relief, The Medicine Shoppe Loratadine, Clearatadine, Alavert, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Loratadine, Loratadine, Ohm Allergy Relief

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to loratadine. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Dissolving Tablet, Liquid, Liquid Filled Capsule, Chewable Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • After you remove a rapidly disintegrating tablet (Reditab®) from the package, use it right away by putting the tablet on your tongue. The tablet will break up and dissolve quickly. You may take the tablet with or without water.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
  • Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease or kidney disease.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
  • Extreme weakness
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Uncontrolled movements of the head, neck, eyes or tongue

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Cough, sore throat, hoarseness
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Nervousness
  • Red, irritated eyes
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