- Uses
Loratadine (lor-AT-uh-deen) temporarily relieves symptoms caused by hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies (runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat); treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
- How to take
Take this medication by mouth once a day or as directed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected.
- Side effects
Headache, fatigue, dry mouth, thirst, dry nose or hoarseness may occur. These effects should lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: nervousness, rapid or pounding heartbeat, unusual weakness, stomach pain, dizziness, diarrhea, wheezing, increased physical activity. Loratadine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses and under normal circumstances. However, be sure of the effects of this drug before engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor.
- Precautions
Before taking Loratadine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease. Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify drug side effects. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.
- Drug interactions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain additional antihistamines that could increase your risk for side effects. Ask your doctor about the safe use of those products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor approval.
- Missed dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
- Storage
Store between 36-86 degrees F (2-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
Loratadine (lor-AT-uh-deen) temporarily relieves symptoms caused by hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies (runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat); treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives).
Take this medication by mouth once a day or as directed. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected.
Headache, fatigue, dry mouth, thirst, dry nose or hoarseness may occur. These effects should lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: nervousness, rapid or pounding heartbeat, unusual weakness, stomach pain, dizziness, diarrhea, wheezing, increased physical activity. Loratadine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses and under normal circumstances. However, be sure of the effects of this drug before engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor.
Before taking Loratadine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease. Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify drug side effects. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain additional antihistamines that could increase your risk for side effects. Ask your doctor about the safe use of those products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor approval.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store between 36-86 degrees F (2-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
