Drug name
Claritin (Loratadine)
Drug Uses
Claritin is an antihistamine reliesing the runny, sneezing nose, itching, stuffiness, tearing eyes, that are caused by hay fever or some other upper respiratory allergies. It relieves the red, swollen, itchy patches of skin caused by hives.
How Taken
Adults, children six years of age and over should take one tablet or reditab, or 10 mg (two teaspoonfuls) of syrup once a day. Children two to five years of age have to take 5 mg (one teaspoonful) of Claritin Syrup once daily. If adults and children six years old or over have liver failure, renal insufficiency (with GFR less than 30 mL/min), the starting dose should be one tablet or two teaspoonfuls (10 mg) every day. For children two to five years old who have liver failure or renal insufficiency, the dose should be one teaspoonful (5 mg) every other day for starting.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Claritin blocks the histamine action. Histamine is a natural substance in your body releasing by your immune system during an allergic reaction.
Missed Dose
Use the omitted dosage as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next dose, skip the omitted dosage, taking only the next scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medicine.
Storage
Claritin is stored at room temperature. The Reditabs have tobe kept in a dry place. You should use them within half a year after opening the pouch they are packed in. Take each pill instantly after removing it from its blister.
Warnings Precautions
Before taking loratadine you should ascertain if you are allergic to this remedy or if you have any other allergies. Before taking it tell your pharmacist or doctor your medical history. You should inform them about kidney and liver diseases (if you have such diseases). It is preferable not to drink alcohol while using Claritine. Caution should be taken when taking this drug in the elderly. Claritine should be used only when clearly needed during your pregnancy. This medicine passes into breast milk. So, breast-feeding is not adviced when taking the drug.
Possible Side Effects
The most common side effects are dry mouth, headache and fatigue.
More Information
Claritin is approved by the Food and Drug Administration in children age of six years and older. Your healthcare professional or pediatrician can determine the proper dosage and treatment for a child.