Loratadine

Loratadine is a long-acting antihistamine that is used for the treatment of allergy. Histamine is a chemical that causes many signs and symptoms of allergy. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine on their surfaces. Histamine stimulates the cells to release chemicals that produce effects that we associate with allergy. Loratadine blocks one type of histamine receptor (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of cells with H1 receptors by histamine. Unlike some antihistamines, loratadine does not enter the brain from the blood and, therefore, does not cause drowsiness when taken at recommended doses. The FDA approved loratadine in April 1993.


Loratadine is an antihistamine. It works by blocking a substance in the body called histamine. This helps to decrease allergy symptoms.


Before using Loratadine :
Some medical conditions may interact with Loratadine . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if you have kidney or liver problems
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Loratadine . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
• Amiodarone because the risk of severe irregular heartbeat may be increased
Ask your health care provider if Loratadine may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, fatigue, dry mouth, thirst, dry nose or hoarseness may occur. These effects should lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: nervousness, rapid or pounding heartbeat, unusual weakness, stomach pain, dizziness, diarrhea, wheezing, increased physical activity. Loratadine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses and under normal circumstances. However, be sure of the drug's effects before engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.


Important safety information:
• Taking Loratadine in high doses may cause drowsiness. Do NOT take more than the recommended dose without checking with your doctor.
• Loratadine may interfere with skin allergy tests. If you are scheduled for a skin test, talk to your doctor. You may need to stop taking Loratadine for a few days before the tests.
• Loratadine should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 6 years old without checking with the child's doctor; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Loratadine while you are pregnant. Loratadine is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Loratadine , check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.