Claritin (Loratadine)

claritin

Claritin is an antihistamine drug that reduces the chemical, histamine, in the body. The active ingredient in Claritin is loratadine which is formulated as 10mg oral tablets. Medicine is also available as a syrup containing 1mg/ml of micronized loratadine, and rapidly-disintegrating tablets (RediTabs) containing 10mg of micronized loratadine.

Drug Uses

Remedy is an effective treatment for seasonal allergies that cause watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose and irritated throat. Claritin also relieves the symptoms of skin hives and skin reactions.

Dosage

Dosages can vary depending on factors such as age, weight, medical conditions, and the formulation of the medication.

Claritin is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat.

For adults and children over 12 years old, the usual recommended dosage of Claritin is 10 mg once daily. For children between the ages of 6 and 12 years old, the typical dose is 5 mg once daily or 10 mg (one tablet) every other day.

For children under 6 years old, dosing should be based on the child's weight.

Claritin Pills

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as you remember, as long as it does not clash with the next scheduled dose. In this case, rather skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose.

Overdose

If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Claritin, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. An overdose can be serious and may require prompt medical intervention.

The symptoms of a Claritin overdose can vary, but they may include:

  • Excessive drowsiness or sedation
  • Restlessness or agitation
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Dry mouth
  • Urinary retention (difficulty passing urine)
  • Dilated pupils
  • Flushing (reddening of the skin)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Confusion or hallucinations (rare)

If you or someone else has taken a large amount of Claritin or if you notice any severe symptoms, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. You can call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital emergency room for help.

Precautions

When taking any medication, including Claritin, it's essential to observe certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some general precautions to consider:

  • Follow the recommended dosage: Stick to the prescribed dosage as directed as indicated on the product label. Avoid taking more than the recommended dose, as it won't increase the effectiveness and may lead to side effects.
  • Allergies and hypersensitivity: If you have a known allergy to loratadine or any other antihistamine, you should avoid using Claritin or any medication containing loratadine.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery: Some individuals may experience drowsiness or dizziness as a side effect of Claritin. If this occurs, avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
  • Avoid alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking Claritin may increase the risk of drowsiness or dizziness.
  • Interactions: Claritin may interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and medications that affect liver enzymes.
  • Keep out of reach of children: Store Claritin and all medications in a safe place, out of reach of children, to prevent accidental ingestion.
  • Overdose: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Claritin can potentially cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects may include:

  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue or drowsiness (although this is less common than with some other antihistamines)
  • Nausea
  • Upset stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Nervousness or restlessness

Most of these side effects are mild and often resolve on their own.

In rare cases, some people may experience more severe side effects, such as an allergic reaction (e.g., hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat. If you experience any severe or concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Additionally, while Claritin is generally considered non-drowsy for most people, it can still cause drowsiness in some individuals. Therefore, it's essential to assess how it affects you before engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications, there is a possibility of interactions or other side effects.

Storage

Proper storage of medications is essential to maintain their effectiveness and safety. Here are some general guidelines for storing Claritin or any other medication:

  • Store at room temperature: Medicine should be stored at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, such as direct sunlight, heat, or freezing conditions.
  • Keep it dry: Keep Claritin in its original packaging or container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from moisture. Avoid storing it in bathrooms or other areas with high humidity.
  • Keep away from children and pets: Store tablets in a secure place, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
  • Check the expiration date: Do not use drug after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Expired medications may not be effective and could potentially be harmful.
  • Follow specific storage instructions: Some medications may have specific storage requirements, such as refrigeration. Always check the product label or package insert for any specific instructions on storing Claritin.
  • Don't transfer to different containers: Keep Claritin in its original packaging to ensure that you have the correct product information and expiration date readily available.

Dispose of unused or expired medication properly: If you have any leftover or expired Claritin, follow the appropriate disposal guidelines in your area. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so, as it may have adverse effects on the environment. Instead, consult your local pharmacy or waste disposal facility for safe disposal methods.