Claritin

Claritin (loratadine) is a second-generation, non-sedating antihistamine indicated for the effective management of seasonal and perennial allergic conditions. As a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist, it works by blocking the action of histamine, a key chemical mediator responsible for allergic symptoms, without significantly crossing the blood-brain barrier. This mechanism provides potent symptom control while minimizing central nervous system effects, making it a first-line recommendation for patients requiring uninterrupted daytime alertness. Available in multiple formulations, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and syrup, Claritin offers flexible and convenient dosing for adults and pediatric populations aged 2 years and above.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Loratadine 10 mg (in standard adult tablets)
• Drug Class: Second-Generation (Non-Sedating) Antihistamine
• Duration of Action: 24-hour sustained relief per dose
• Formulations: Tablets, RediTabs® (orally disintegrating), Syrup (1 mg/mL)
• Onset of Action: Symptom relief typically begins within 1–3 hours post-administration
• Prescription Status: Over-the-counter (OTC) in most regions

Benefits

• Provides comprehensive relief from allergic rhinitis symptoms, including sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal pruritus, and ocular itching
• Maintains full therapeutic effect for a full 24-hour period with a single dose, supporting consistent symptom control
• Exhibits a favorable non-drowsy profile for the vast majority of patients, allowing normal performance of tasks requiring concentration
• Suitable for long-term management of chronic allergic conditions due to its well-established safety profile and minimal tachyphylaxis
• Available in pediatric-friendly formulations, permitting accurate weight-based dosing for children as young as 2 years
• Does not require dietary considerations for absorption and can be taken with or without food

Common use

Claritin is clinically indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis (e.g., hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the throat or nose. It is also approved for the management of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives), reducing pruritus and the number and size of wheals.

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.

Administration Notes:
Tablets may be taken with or without water. RediTabs® should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve without liquid. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. For patients with liver or kidney impairment, consult a healthcare provider for potential dosage adjustment.

Precautions

• Although non-drowsy, exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until response to the drug is known
• Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment (consider reduced dosing)
• Patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) should note that RediTabs® contain phenylalanine
• Consult a physician before use if you have kidney disease
• Not recommended for children under 2 years of age without medical supervision

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to loratadine or any component of the formulation
• Concurrent use with certain antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) or macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin) in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions

Possible side effect

Most side effects are mild and transient. Commonly reported include:

• Headache (∼12%)
• Somnolence (∼8%)
• Fatigue (∼4%)
• Dry mouth (∼3%)
• Gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g., nausea, stomach pain)

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. Concurrent use with strong inhibitors of these enzymes (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, cimetidine) may increase loratadine plasma levels
• Although generally low risk, theoretical potential for additive sedative effects when combined with CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)
• No clinically significant interactions with food

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 generally supportive; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new medication or changing your treatment plan, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance consistently demonstrate Claritin’s efficacy and tolerability. In randomized controlled trials, loratadine showed significant improvement in total symptom scores compared to placebo. Patient reviews frequently highlight its effectiveness in controlling allergy symptoms without causing drowsiness, making it a preferred choice for daily use among students, professionals, and active individuals. Long-term users appreciate its reliability and minimal side effect profile.