Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Claritin, Alavert, Claritin RediTabs, QlearQuil All Day & All Night 24 Hour Allergy Relief
- Antihistamines, 2nd Generation
Description
Oral non-sedating antihistamine
CNS effects are less with loratadine compared to the traditional sedating antihistamines; not associated with QT prolongation
Used in adult and pediatric populations for allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria or other allergic symptoms
Indications
Indicated for the management of symptoms of seasonal allergies or perennial allergies, including allergic rhinitis.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Adverse Effects
- Headache (12%)
- Somnolence (8%)
- Drowsiness (8%)
- Nervousness (4%)
- Fatigue (3-4%)
- Dry mouth (3%)
- Hyperkinesia (3%)
- Conjunctivitis (2%)
- Dysphonia (2%)
- Malaise (2%)
- URTI (2%)
- Abdominal pain (2%)
Warnings
Caution in hepatic and renal impairment
Elderly patients are at increased risk for comorbidities related to anticholinergic effects; may be potentially inappropriate in this population (Beers criteria)
Effects of ethanol and other sedative drugs may be potentiated when used concurrently
Benzyl alcohol, which is associated with the fatal toxicity, gasping syndrome in neonates; use caution
Some products may contain phenylalanine
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy category: B
Lactation: Excreted in breast milk; avoid (AAP Committee states compatible with nursing)
Maximum Dosage
NOTE: Do not exceed recommended dosage limits for the specific product prescribed; the following are general guidelines:
10 mg/day PO.
10 mg/day PO.
10 mg/day PO.
6 to 12 years: 10 mg/day PO.
2 to 5 years: 5 mg/day PO.
1 year: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
How supplied
Loratadine
syrup
- 5mg/5mL
tablet
- 10mg
tablet, chewable
- 5mg
tablet, disintegrating
- 5mg
- 10mg
capsule
- 10mg
