Claritin: Non-Drowsy 24-Hour Allergy Relief
| Product dosage: 10mg | |||
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Claritin (loratadine) is a second-generation, non-sedating antihistamine indicated for the effective management of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, as well as chronic idiopathic urticaria. As a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist, it works by competitively blocking histamine at receptor sites, thereby mitigating the cascade of allergic symptoms without significant central nervous system penetration. Its pharmacokinetic profile ensures rapid onset of action and sustained 24-hour efficacy, making it a first-line therapeutic choice for patients seeking symptom control with minimal impact on daily functioning. Available in multiple formulations, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and syrup, Claritin offers flexibility tailored to individual patient needs and preferences.
Features
- Active ingredient: Loratadine 10 mg (in standard adult tablets)
- Mechanism: Selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist
- Formulations: Tablets, RediTabs® (orally disintegrating), syrup (5 mg/5 mL)
- Onset of action: Within 1–3 hours post-administration
- Duration of effect: Up to 24 hours per dose
- Non-drowsy formula in recommended doses
- Sugar-free and dye-free options available
- Over-the-counter (OTC) availability
Benefits
- Provides rapid and sustained relief from sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and ocular itching associated with allergic rhinitis
- Minimizes sedative effects, allowing unimpaired alertness and cognitive function during daytime use
- Single daily dosing supports adherence and convenience for long-term management
- Suitable for use in adults and pediatric patients aged 2 years and older
- Does not interact with alcohol in clinically significant ways at recommended doses
- Effective in reducing wheal and flare responses in chronic urticaria
Common use
Claritin is commonly used for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis (e.g., hay fever) such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy/watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat. It is also indicated for perennial allergic rhinitis caused by allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, or mold. Additionally, Claritin is used in the management of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives of unknown origin) to reduce redness, itching, and size of welts.
Dosage and direction
Adults and children 6 years and older:
One 10 mg tablet, or two teaspoonfuls (10 mg) of syrup, or one RediTab® 10 mg once daily.
Children 2 to 5 years:
One teaspoonful (5 mg) of syrup once daily.
Children under 2 years:
Consult a physician.
Take with or without food. For RediTabs®, place on tongue; tablet disintegrates within seconds with or without water. Do not exceed recommended dosage.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
- Although classified as non-drowsy, individual responses may vary. Avoid activities requiring mental alertness until response is known.
- Pregnancy Category B: Use only if clearly needed. Consult healthcare provider.
- Lactation: Loratadine is excreted in breast milk; use caution when administering to nursing women.
- Not recommended for children under 2 years of age without medical supervision.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to loratadine or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with severe hepatic impairment without proper dose adjustment.
Possible side effect
Most side effects are mild and transient. Commonly reported include:
- Headache (~12%)
- Somnolence (~8%)
- Fatigue (~4%)
- Dry mouth (~3%)
- Gastrointestinal discomfort (~2%)
Rare but serious side effects may include tachycardia, hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash, angioedema), and hepatic dysfunction. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if severe reactions occur.
Drug interaction
- Loratadine is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes. Concomitant use with strong CYP inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, cimetidine) may increase plasma concentrations of loratadine.
- No clinically significant interactions have been observed with azithromycin, fluoxetine, or warfarin. However, always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose
Symptoms may include drowsiness, tachycardia, and headache. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; loratadine is not dialyzable.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep blister packs intact until use. Keep out of reach of children.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other drugs.
Reviews
Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance consistently report high patient satisfaction with Claritin, particularly regarding its non-sedating properties and 24-hour duration of action. In randomized controlled trials, loratadine demonstrated significant improvement in Total Symptom Scores compared to placebo. Users frequently note improved quality of life during allergy season, with minimal disruption to daily activities. Pediatric formulations are well-accepted due to pleasant taste and ease of administration.