LORATADINE (lor AT a deen) prevents and treats allergy symptoms, such as red, itchy eyes, sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, or hives. It works by blocking histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction. It belongs to a group of medications called antihistamines.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Asthma
Kidney disease
Liver disease
An unusual or allergic reaction to loratadine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth, with or without water. Follow the directions on the label. You may take this medication with food or on an empty stomach. Leave the disintegrating tablet in the blister package until you are ready to take it. Peel open the blister pack with dry hands and place the tablet on your tongue. Allow the tablet to dissolve completely then swallow. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Other medications for colds or allergies
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Headache
Fatigue
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your care team if the problem does not go away or is severe.
This medication may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Sit up or stand slowly to reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Drinking alcohol with this medication can increase the risk of these side effects.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
