Generic Claritin - loratadine - is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms, including sneezing; runny nose; and red, itchy, tearing eyes. Claritin is in a class of medications called antihistamines. Loratadine works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Loratadine may cause less drowsiness than other antihistamines.


 

FAQ

About Claritin
Claritin is the brand name of loratadine, a non-sedating antihistamine made and marketed by Schering Canada Inc. Loratadine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery, itchy, re d eyes; sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat. As an antihistamine, it works by blocking the action of histamine, a naturally occurring chemical that is responsible for allergy symptoms.

Does Claritin act as a cure for seasonal allergies?
No, it does not act as a cure for seasonal allergies. There is no permanent solution to allergies. Just like there is no way to prevent yourself from having future colds. Claritin simply relieves your current symptoms. If cannot prevent future outbreaks.

What does an allergy test consist of?
An allergy test is a process where your skin is tested with allergens to see what you are allergic to. A drop of the allergen is placed on a small scratch on your arm. If there is any swelling or itching, it is determined that you are sensitive to that particular allergen.

What is the difference between Claritin and Claritin-D?
Claritin-D combines the active ingredient in claritin, loaratadine, with psuedoephedrine sulfate an effective decongestant. This combination not only relieves the symptoms of seasonal allergies: itchy, watery, eyes; sneezing and runny nose, etc., but the psuedoephedrine sulfate also relieves the nasal congestion that is associated with these symptoms.

Claritin side effects
Claritin may cause difficulty in sleeping, dry mouth, mild stomach upset, headache, nervousness, dizziness, loss of appetite or thirst. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor.
This medication may cause excessive sleepiness in people with liver or kidney disease, or older adults, and should be used with caution.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Claritin during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Claritin appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Claritin is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Claritin is finished.

Recommended dosage for Claritin
Adults and children 12 years of age and over: The recommended dose of Claritin® is 10 mg once daily. In patients with liver failure or renal insufficiency (GFR < 30 ml/min), one tablet every other day should be the starting dose.


IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

If you have glaucoma, diabetes, difficulty urinating, an enlarged prostate gland, heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid gland or have serious difficulty in swallowing, do not use claritin unless your doctor knows of your medical condition. Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify drug side effects. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. It is not known if this medication is found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.