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Loratadine


  • Loratadine is called a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can sometimes cause drowsiness and blurred vision in some people. If you are affected do not drive or operate machinery or do any other jobs which could be dangerous if you are not fully alert

About loratadine

Type of medicine Antihistamine
Used for Allergies including hayfever
Allergic skin rashes
Also called Clarityn Allergy
Available as Tablets
Oral syrup

Exposure to pollen, pet fur, house dust or an insect bite can cause the body to produce histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms which can include rashes, sneezing, watery eyes and a running or blocked nose. 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 suffer from liver or kidney problems.
  • If you suffer from epilepsy.
  • If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder).

How to take loratadine

  • Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Loratadine is called a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can sometimes cause drowsiness and blurred vision in some people. If you are affected do not drive or operate machinery or do any other jobs which could be dangerous if you are not fully alert

Can loratadine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Side Effect What can I do if I experience this
Drowsiness, blurred vision Do not drive or operate machinery
Avoid alcohol as this will make you more drowsy
Dry mouth Chew sugar-free gum, suck sugar free sweets or ice cubes. If a dry mouth becomes too much of a problem speak to your doctor or pharmacist

How to store loratadine

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • 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. Always take the container with you, if possible, 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.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • 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.
© EMIS 2007 DocID:
3884		 DocRef:
dils3904		 Last Updated:
2 Feb 2007		 Date of Next Review:
1 Feb 2009		 Version:
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PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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