What is the most important information I should know about loratadine?
Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
What is loratadine?
Loratadine is an antihistamine that is used to treat symptoms of hay fever or other allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching in your nose or throat.
Loratadine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking loratadine?
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to loratadine.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:
- kidney disease; or
- liver disease.
The disintegrating tablet may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.
How should I take loratadine?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or allergy medicine is only for short-term use.
Loratadine is usually taken once per day.
Swallow the regular tablet whole.
Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Measure liquid medicine with the supplied syringe or a dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
A child's dose is based on age and some forms of loratadine are not for use in children younger than 6 years old. Carefully follow the dosing instructions provided with this medicine.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Loratadine is used when needed. Do not use this medicine more than once in a 24-hour period. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while taking loratadine?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
What are the possible side effects of loratadine?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common side effects may include:
- headache; or
- feeling tired or drowsy.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect loratadine?
Other drugs may affect loratadine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.
Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist can provide more information about loratadine.
