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Loratadine
INFORMATION ABOUT LORATADINE
Loratadine Uses
Loratadine is used in the treatment of allergic eye disease, nasal allergy symptoms, allergic conditions, sneezing and runny nose due to allergies and allergic skin 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
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Sleepiness, Headache, Increased appetite
CONTENT DETAILS
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Written By
Dr. Nitika Makhija
MDS, BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Lalit Kanodia
MBA, MD Pharmacology
Last updated
09 Dec 2024 | 03:45 AM (UTC)
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Medicine brands for Loratadine
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.
- 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 3 days before taking an allergy test as it can affect the test results.
Frequently asked questions for Loratadine
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.