Uses

Loratadine is an antihistamine. This drugs blocks the receptors of histamine within the body to decrease symptoms of allergies such as sneezing, itching, redness and runny nose.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water, it can be taken with or without food.

Take exactly as directed, do not take more than directed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

Inform your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve.

Do not operate heavy machinery, drive a car, or engage in other activity that requires fine motor skills until you are sure of how this medication affects you.

Stand and sit slowly when first starting this medication to avoid dizziness.

This medication can make your mouth dry, drinking water, chewing sugarless gum, or sucking on candy can help this side effect.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

Liver or kidney disease, asthma, allergic reaction history, pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to become pregnant.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reaction(hives, itching, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, excessive restlessness or nervousness.

Other Side Effects

Drowsiness, headache, dry mouth.

Dose(Adults and children over 6 years old)

Allergy and Urticaria Symptoms

Loratadine Tablets: 10 mg by mouth once daily.

Loratadine Orally Disintegrating Tablets: 10 mg by mouth daily. Can be given as one dose or 2 doses of 5 mg.

Loratadine Chewable Tablets: 10 mg by mouth daily.

Ages 2-5: 5.mg by mouth daily.

Loratadine 5mg/5ml liquids: 10 mg by mouth daily.

Ages 2-5: 5mg by mouth daily.

For adults and children over 6 years old, do not exceed 10 mg per day. For children ages 2-5, do not exceed 5 mg per day.

Sources

1. Slater JW, Zechnich AD, Haxby DG. Second-generation antihistamines: a comparative review. Drugs 1999;57:31-47.

2. Maurer M, Magerl M, Metz M, et al: Revisions to the international guidelines on the diagnosis and therapy of chronic urticaria. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2013; epub:epub.