Loratadine works by blocking the action of histamine, which is the substance responsible for allergy symptoms.
What is Loratadine?
Loratadine is used to temporarily relieve the symptoms of hay fever (i.e. allergies to airborne substances such as pollen or dust) and other allergies. It helps reduce sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes, nose and throat.
It can also be used to relieve itching and redness associated with urticaria, but it does not prevent either this or other allergic reactions that trigger symptoms on a dermatological level.
How should Loratadine be taken?
Typically, Loratadine is administered once a day. It is available in the form of syrup or tablets (including sustained-release or dissolve in the mouth).
This active ingredient also exists even in formulations where it is combined with pseudoephedrine.
Side effects associated with Loratadine
Possible side effects of Loratadine include the following:
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Epistaxis
- Sore throat
- Mouth sores
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
- Stomach ache
- Diarrhea
- Itching or redness of the eyes
You should immediately contact a doctor if you notice:
- skin rash
- urticarial
- itch
- swelling of eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, arms, feet, ankles and calves
- hoarseness
- difficulty breathing
- difficulty swallowing
- wheezing
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Loratadine
Loratadine should not be used in case of rash associated with blistering or bleeding or in case of rashes with a strange color or itch. In addition, the treatment should be discontinued if the rash does not improve in the first 3 days after taking the medication or if it lasts for more than 6 weeks. However, it is advised to consult with your doctor if you do not know the underlying cause of the hives.
Before taking Loratadine, it is important to inform your doctor:
- If you have any allergy to the active substance, its excipients or any other medication
- If you are taking any other medicinal products, herbal supplements or sedatives. Mentioning in particular: remedies against colds and allergies
- If you suffer from phenylketonuria
- If you suffer (or have suffered) from kidney or liver disease or asthma
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
