What is Generic Loratadin (Claritin)?
Generic Loratadine is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms.
What is Generic Loratadin (Claritin) used for?
Loratadine is used to treat allergies, hives (urticaria), and other allergic inflammatory conditions. It is also prescribed for relief of the swollen, red, itchy patches of skin labeled chronic hives. Loratadine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Generic Loratadin (Claritin) Facts
Active Ingredients: micronized loratadine and antihistamine.
Other Ingredients: corn starch, lactose, and magnesium stearate.
Class and Mechanism: Generic Loratadine is a long-acting antihistamine. Histamine is a chemical that causes many of the signs that are part of allergic reactions, for example, swelling of tissues. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine. The attachment of the histamine to the receptors causes the cell to be "activated," releasing other chemicals which produce the effects that we associate with allergy. Loratadine blocks one type of receptor for histamine (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of cells by histamine. Unlike most other antihistamines, loratadine does not enter the brain from the blood and, therefore, does not cause drowsiness.
Generic Loratadin (Claritin) Storage
Store at room temperature or between 2 and 25 degrees C (36 and 77 degrees F). Keep the Claritin in the foil pouch until ready to use. Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
How to take Generic Loratadin (Claritin)?
Take Claritin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the regular Claritin tablets. Swallow them whole. Place the Claritin rapidly-disintegrating-tablets (Claritin Reditabs) on your tongue and allow them to dissolve. The tablet will disintegrate rapidly. Swallow with or without water.
To ensure the correct dose, measure the syrup form of Claritin with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Claritin is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Never take more of this medication than directed. If your symptoms do not improve, talk to your doctor.
If OVERDOSE: Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Claritin overdose may include: headache, rapid heartbeat, sleepiness.
What to do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
Who should not take Generic Loratadin (Claritin)?
Before taking Claritin, tell your doctor if you have: an allergic reaction to an antihistamine; kidney disease; or liver disease.
You may not be able to take Claritin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
FOR WOMEN: Claritin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Claritin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Claritin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take Claritin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
What side effects may occur?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Claritin and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); an irregular heartbeat; or seizures.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Claritin and talk to your doctor if you experience: drowsiness or dizziness; headache; nervousness; nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort; dry mouth; dry skin or itchiness; or discoloration of urine.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Generic Loratadin (Claritin) Drug Interactions
Although no harmful interactions with Claritin have been reported, there is a theoretical possibility of an interaction with the following drugs: antibiotics such as erythromycin; Cimetidine (Tagamet); Ketoconazole (Nizoral).
Additional Information
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Loratadine can affect blood glucose tests. Tell your doctor that you take loratadine if you are having this laboratory test.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
