About loratadine
| Type of medicine |
Antihistamine (non-drowsy) |
| Used for |
Allergies including hayfever and allergic skin rashes |
| Available as |
Tablets and oral syrup |
Exposure to substances such as pollen, animal fur, house dust or an insect bite can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms which can include skin rashes, sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose and itching. Loratadine stops the effects of histamine and helps to relieve these symptoms.
Before taking loratadine
Before taking loratadine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have liver problems.
- If you suffer from epilepsy.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
How to take loratadine
- Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take loratadine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.
- Loratadine is taken only once a day. You may take it before or after food.
- If you are giving loratadine to a child, make sure you follow the dosing instructions carefully. The dose you will need to give may depend upon the age and the weight of your child.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Loratadine is called a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can sometimes cause drowsiness in some people. If you are affected do not drive or operate machinery or do any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
- If you drink alcohol while you are taking loratadine, be aware of its effects on you and do not drink more than moderate amounts.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with loratadine.
Can loratadine cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Rare side-effects |
What can I do if I experience this |
| Drowsiness, tiredness |
If you are affected, do not drive or operate machinery or do other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. It is best to avoid alcohol as this will make you more drowsy |
How to store loratadine
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
- Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
- If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
- This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
- Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
- If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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