Loratadine

Information about Loratadine

Loratadine uses

Loratadine is used in the treatment of allergic conditions.

How loratadine works

Loratadine is an antihistaminic medication. It treats allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes by blocking the effects of a chemical messenger (histamine) in the body.

Common side effects of loratadine

Sleepiness, Headache, Increased appetite, Hypersensitivity, Dryness in mouth, Palpitations, Tachycardia, Convulsion, Dizziness

Available Medicine for Loratadine

  • ₹25 to ₹55
    Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹64
    Mohrish Pharmaceuticals
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹52
    Empiai Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹40
    Psychotropics India Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹11
    Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹19 to ₹49
    Morepen Laboratories Ltd
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹50
    Intel Pharmaceuticals
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹45
    Medicowin Remedies (P) Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹37
    Captab Biotec
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹49
    Leeford Healthcare Ltd
    1 variant(s)

Expert advice for Loratadine

  • Your doctor has prescribed Loratadine to help relieve allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes.
  • As compared to other similar medications, it is much less likely to make you feel sleepy.
  • Be cautious while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as it can cause dizziness and sleepiness.
  • Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication as it may cause increased sleepiness.
  • Stop taking Loratadine at least three days before taking an allergy test as it can affect the test results.
  • Loratadine should not be given to children under 12 years of age.
  • Patients with underlying medical conditions like liver, kidney disorders, diabetes, convulsions, etc. should consult their treating doctor before consuming Loratadine.

Frequently asked questions for Loratadine

Loratadine

Q. How quickly does Loratadine work?
Loratadine starts working within an hour of taking it. The maximum benefit of this medicine is seen within 6 hours and the effect lasts for 24 hours.
Q. Is Loratadine effective?
Loratadine is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Loratadine too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
Q. Can Loratadine cause heart problems?
Yes, Loratadine may cause fast or irregular heartbeat and palpitations, especially in patients with heart problems. Patients who are already suffering from heart disease should remain careful while taking Loratadine. Therefore, inform your doctor if you have heart problems.
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Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Loratadine?
If you have missed a dose of Loratadine, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take it in the regular schedule instead of taking the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.
Q. Does Loratadine relieve symptoms of outdoor and indoor allergies?
Yes, Loratadine relieves the symptoms of upper respiratory allergies or hay fever which can be caused by outdoor and indoor allergens. It relieves the symptoms of itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing, or itching of the nose or throat.
Q. Can Loratadine make you sleepy?
Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of this medicine. However, it does not affect everyone. But in case the drowsiness starts hampering your daily life, consult your doctor who might suggest another anti-allergic medicine which does not cause sleepiness.
Q. Can you overdose on Loratadine?
No, never take an overdose of any medicine. Overdose of Loratadine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue and dry mouth. If you accidentally take more than the recommended dose of Loratadine, seek emergency medical service in a nearby hospital or contact your doctor immediately.

Content on this page was last updated on 13 June, 2023, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)