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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Allergy Congestion Relief
Generic Name
Loratadine, Pseudoephedrine Sulfate
Active Ingredient
LoratadineCategory
Other
Variants
1
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 mg/1 | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | ORAL | 30142-846 |
Detailed information about Allergy Congestion Relief
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Allergy Congestion Relief, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Loratadine is a potent, long-acting second-generation antihistamine used to treat allergic rhinitis and urticaria. It provides 24-hour relief by selectively blocking peripheral H1 receptors without significant central nervous system sedation.
For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the standard recommended dose of Loratadine is 10 mg taken orally once daily. This dose is sufficient to provide 24-hour relief from symptoms of allergic rhinitis or chronic urticaria. It is important not to exceed the 10 mg limit in a 24-hour period unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider, as higher doses do not necessarily increase efficacy but do increase the risk of somnolence (drowsiness).
Loratadine is approved for use in children as young as 2 years old. The dosage is strictly based on age:
In patients with significant renal insufficiency (kidney dysfunction), the clearance of Loratadine and its metabolites is reduced. For adults and children 6 years of age and older with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) or creatinine clearance of less than 30 mL/min, the starting dose should be 10 mg every other day. For children 2 to 5 years of age with renal impairment, the starting dose should be 5 mg every other day.
Because Loratadine is extensively metabolized by the liver, patients with hepatic failure or significant liver disease require dosage adjustments. Similar to the renal protocol, adults and children 6 years and older with liver impairment should start with 10 mg every other day. Children 2 to 5 years old should start with 5 mg every other day.
While no specific dose adjustment is required for healthy elderly patients, healthcare providers should be mindful that older adults are more likely to have decreased renal or hepatic function. Clinical monitoring is advised to ensure the 10 mg daily dose is well-tolerated without excessive sedation or anticholinergic-like effects.
Loratadine can be taken with or without food. If you find that the medication causes stomach upset, taking it with a meal or a glass of milk may help.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of side effects.
Symptoms of a Loratadine overdose may include tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), somnolence (extreme sleepiness), headache, and extrapyramidal symptoms (uncontrolled muscle movements). In the event of a suspected overdose, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic; gastric lavage (stomach pumping) may be considered if performed shortly after ingestion.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions precisely. Do not adjust your dose or frequency without professional medical guidance.
Loratadine is generally very well-tolerated, and many patients experience no side effects at all. However, some individuals may experience mild reactions. The most frequently reported common side effect is:
These effects occur in a smaller percentage of the population (approximately 2% to 5%):
Rare side effects are those that occur in less than 1% of the population but have been documented in post-marketing surveillance:
While extremely rare, serious allergic reactions can occur. You must seek emergency help if you experience:
> Warning: Stop taking Loratadine and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious symptoms.
Loratadine is considered safe for long-term use when taken as directed. Unlike some other classes of medications, there is no evidence that Loratadine causes significant physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. However, chronic use should be periodically reviewed by a healthcare provider to ensure that the underlying allergy is being managed appropriately and that no rare systemic effects (such as liver enzyme elevations) are developing. Some patients may report a perceived "tolerance" where the drug seems less effective over time, though clinical studies generally do not support the development of pharmacological tolerance to H1 antagonists.
There are currently no FDA Black Box Warnings for Loratadine. It has a high safety margin and is widely used across various demographics. However, the lack of a black box warning does not mean the drug is without risk; patients must still adhere to the recommended dosing and precautions.
Report any unusual or persistent symptoms to your healthcare provider to ensure the continued safe use of this medication.
Loratadine is an over-the-counter medication, but it must be used with caution in certain populations. The most important safety consideration is ensuring the correct diagnosis. Symptoms that mimic allergies, such as a persistent cough or shortness of breath, may actually be signs of asthma or other respiratory conditions that Loratadine cannot treat. Additionally, patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) must be aware that some orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) formulations contain aspartame, which is a source of phenylalanine.
No FDA black box warnings for Loratadine. It is recognized as having a favorable safety profile when used according to the label instructions.
For the average healthy individual taking Loratadine OTC, routine laboratory monitoring is not typically required. However, for specific groups:
At the recommended dose of 10 mg, Loratadine is generally considered non-sedating. However, clinical trials have shown that a small percentage of users may experience somnolence. Until you are certain how Loratadine affects you, use caution when driving a car, operating heavy machinery, or performing tasks that require full mental alertness. This is especially important if you are taking other medications that can cause drowsiness.
While Loratadine does not significantly potentiate (increase) the effects of alcohol in the same way that first-generation antihistamines do, it is still advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking any medication that affects the CNS. Combining alcohol with Loratadine may increase the risk of dizziness or impaired coordination in sensitive individuals.
Loratadine can be stopped abruptly without the need for a tapering schedule. There is no known withdrawal syndrome associated with the cessation of Loratadine. If symptoms return after stopping the medication, consult your doctor about alternative long-term management strategies for your allergies.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially liver or kidney disease, with your healthcare provider before starting Loratadine.
There are no absolute "do not use" contraindications for Loratadine involving other drugs that lead to fatal outcomes. However, it should not be used in combination with Desloratadine (Clarinex), as desloratadine is the primary active metabolite of Loratadine. Taking both simultaneously is essentially a double dose and significantly increases the risk of toxicity and side effects.
Several drugs that inhibit the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) or 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzymes can increase the levels of Loratadine in the blood. These include:
In most cases, these interactions do not require a dose change but do require awareness of potential side effects like dry mouth or headache.
For each interaction, the primary mechanism is usually the inhibition or induction of the liver enzymes responsible for breaking down the drug. The clinical consequence is typically an increase in the duration or intensity of side effects rather than a dangerous toxic reaction.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, including those purchased without a prescription.
There are very few absolute contraindications for Loratadine, but they are critical for patient safety:
Relative contraindications require a healthcare provider to weigh the benefits against the potential risks:
Patients who have demonstrated sensitivity to other piperidine antihistamines (such as azatadine or cyproheptadine) should use Loratadine with caution, as there is a theoretical risk of cross-reactivity due to similar chemical structures. If you have had a severe reaction to any antihistamine in the past, consult an allergist before starting Loratadine.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any previous drug allergies, before determining if Loratadine is a safe option for you.
Loratadine was previously classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B. This means that animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Large-scale observational studies and registries have generally not shown an increased risk of congenital malformations (birth defects) in humans when Loratadine is used during pregnancy. However, because no drug is 100% risk-free, it should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and under the guidance of an obstetrician.
Loratadine and its metabolite, desloratadine, are excreted into breast milk. However, the amount transferred to the infant is very small (estimated at less than 1% of the maternal weight-adjusted dose). The American Academy of Pediatrics considers Loratadine to be generally compatible with breastfeeding. One potential concern is that antihistamines can theoretically decrease serum prolactin levels, which might interfere with milk production, though this is rarely reported with second-generation antihistamines like Loratadine.
Loratadine is safe and effective for children aged 2 years and older. It is a preferred choice for pediatric allergies because it does not cause the cognitive impairment or hyperactivity often seen with older antihistamines. It is NOT approved for use in children under 2 years of age without a doctor's specific order. Parents should be aware that in some children, Loratadine may cause paradoxical excitation (feeling "wired" or hyperactive) rather than sedation.
Clinical studies of Loratadine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently than younger subjects. However, because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal and hepatic function, they are at a higher risk for drug accumulation. Furthermore, the elderly are more susceptible to the anticholinergic-like side effects of antihistamines, such as confusion, dizziness, and urinary retention. A starting dose of 10 mg every other day may be prudent for frail elderly patients.
In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), the half-life of Loratadine and desloratadine is prolonged. For those with a creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min, the standard 10 mg dose should be taken every other day. Loratadine is not significantly removed by hemodialysis; therefore, supplemental doses after dialysis are not necessary.
In patients with chronic alcoholic liver disease, the elimination half-life of Loratadine can double. For patients with significant hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B or C), the frequency of dosing should be reduced to 10 mg every other day to prevent systemic accumulation and associated side effects.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment to ensure the safest and most effective use of Loratadine.
Loratadine is a potent, long-acting tricyclic antihistamine with selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonistic activity. It functions as an inverse agonist, meaning it binds to the H1 receptor and stabilizes it in its inactive state, thereby preventing histamine from binding and exerting its pro-inflammatory effects. Its chemical structure (a piperidine derivative) gives it a high affinity for peripheral receptors and a low affinity for the cholinergic and alpha-adrenergic receptors, which explains its lack of traditional side effects like blurred vision or significant heart rate changes. Its inability to cross the blood-brain barrier is a result of its low lipophilicity and its recognition by the P-glycoprotein efflux transporter.
Following oral administration, the antihistaminic effects of Loratadine begin within 1 to 3 hours, reach a maximum at 8 to 12 hours, and persist for more than 24 hours. There is no evidence of the development of tolerance (tachyphylaxis) to the effects of Loratadine even after 28 days of continuous dosing. It does not cause significant QTc interval prolongation, a dangerous heart rhythm issue associated with some older second-generation antihistamines like terfenadine.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Increased 40% with food |
| Protein Binding | 97% to 99% (Loratadine) |
| Half-life | 8.4 hours (Parent), 28 hours (Metabolite) |
| Tmax | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4, CYP2D6) |
| Excretion | Renal 40%, Fecal 40% |
Loratadine is classified as a second-generation H1-receptor antagonist. It belongs to the piperidine subclass of antihistamines. Related medications in this class include fexofenadine (Allegra), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and its own active metabolite, desloratadine (Clarinex). Second-generation antihistamines are the standard of care for allergic rhinitis due to their superior safety profile compared to first-generation agents.
Common questions about Allergy Congestion Relief
Loratadine is primarily used to relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. It is also highly effective in treating chronic idiopathic urticaria, which is the medical term for hives that occur without a known cause. By blocking histamine receptors, it prevents the inflammatory response that leads to these uncomfortable symptoms. Many people use it daily during high-pollen seasons to maintain consistent relief. It is suitable for both adults and children over the age of two. Always consult your doctor to ensure your symptoms are actually caused by allergies before starting treatment.
The most common side effects of Loratadine include headache, which occurs in about 12% of users, and mild drowsiness, affecting about 8%. Some people may also experience a dry mouth, fatigue, or stomach pain. In children, it can sometimes cause nervousness or hyperactive behavior. These side effects are generally mild and often disappear as your body becomes accustomed to the medication. If side effects persist or become bothersome, you should contact your healthcare provider. Compared to older antihistamines, Loratadine is much less likely to cause significant sedation or cognitive impairment.
While Loratadine is considered a non-sedating antihistamine, it is generally recommended to be cautious with alcohol consumption. Alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness or drowsiness, even if the medication itself does not usually cause these effects. For most people, a moderate amount of alcohol may not cause a severe interaction, but individual sensitivity varies. Combining Loratadine with heavy alcohol use could potentially impair your coordination or reaction time. It is always safest to see how Loratadine affects you personally before consuming alcohol. If you have liver disease, avoiding alcohol while on this medication is particularly important.
Loratadine is generally considered one of the safer antihistamines to use during pregnancy. Large observational studies have not found a clear link between Loratadine use and an increased risk of birth defects. However, it is still classified as a medication that should only be used when the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Most doctors suggest trying non-medication approaches, like saline nasal sprays, before moving to antihistamines. If your allergies are severe and affecting your quality of life, your obstetrician may approve the use of Loratadine. Always seek professional medical advice before taking any medication while pregnant.
Loratadine typically begins to work within 1 to 3 hours after you take a dose. The peak effect, where you feel the most relief, usually occurs between 8 and 12 hours after ingestion. Because it is a long-acting medication, a single 10 mg dose provides relief for a full 24 hours. For people with chronic allergies, taking it at the same time every day can help maintain a steady level of the drug in your system. It is not an 'instant' fix like a nasal decongestant spray, but it provides more comprehensive, long-term control of allergy symptoms. If you don't feel relief after several days of use, consult your doctor.
Yes, you can stop taking Loratadine suddenly without experiencing withdrawal symptoms or physical dependence. It is not a habit-forming medication and does not require a tapering period. However, once you stop taking it, your allergy symptoms will likely return within 24 to 48 hours as the drug is cleared from your system. If you were taking it for chronic hives, you might notice the itching and redness reappearing shortly after discontinuation. If you find you need Loratadine every day for more than a few weeks, it is a good idea to discuss long-term allergy management with your doctor. They may suggest other treatments like nasal steroids or allergy shots.
If you miss a dose of Loratadine, you should take it as soon as you remember. If it is already almost time for your next scheduled dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular routine. You should never take two doses at once to 'catch up,' as this can increase the likelihood of side effects like headache or drowsiness. Since Loratadine stays in your system for a long time, missing one dose may not cause an immediate return of severe symptoms. Setting a daily reminder on your phone can help you stay consistent with your dosing. If you frequently miss doses, talk to your pharmacist about tools to help you remember.
Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Loratadine in clinical trials. Some older, first-generation antihistamines were associated with increased appetite and weight gain because they could cross into the brain and affect hunger signals. Because Loratadine has very limited penetration into the central nervous system, it does not typically influence appetite. If you notice significant weight changes while taking Loratadine, it is likely due to other factors such as diet, lifestyle, or other medications. However, every individual's body chemistry is unique, so you should report any unusual changes to your doctor. They can help determine if the medication or another underlying issue is the cause.
Loratadine can be taken with many other medications, but there are some important exceptions. It should not be taken with desloratadine (Clarinex), as they are chemically related and could lead to an overdose. You should also be cautious when taking it with certain antibiotics like erythromycin or antifungals like ketoconazole, as these can increase the levels of Loratadine in your blood. While these interactions are usually not dangerous, they can make side effects more likely. It is generally safe to take with most over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Always provide your doctor or pharmacist with a full list of your current medications to check for specific interactions.
Yes, Loratadine is widely available as a generic medication and is often much less expensive than the brand-name version, Claritin. Generic Loratadine is required by the FDA to have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand-name drug. It must also prove 'bioequivalence,' meaning it works in the body in the same way and over the same amount of time. You can find generic Loratadine in most pharmacies, grocery stores, and big-box retailers. Whether you choose the brand name or the generic, you are getting the same antihistamine medication. Many insurance plans also prefer the generic version due to the cost savings.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Loratadine)