What is the most important information I should know about loratadine?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to loratadine or to
desloratadine (Clarinex).
Before taking loratadine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have
liver or kidney disease.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 years old without the advice of
a doctor.
Loratadine disintegrating tablets (Claritin Reditab) may contain phenylalanine. Talk to
your doctor before using this form of loratadine if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
What is loratadine?
Loratadine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body.
Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.
Loratadine is used to treat the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and
runny nose. It is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions.
Loratadine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking loratadine?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to loratadine or to
desloratadine (Clarinex).
Before taking loratadine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment
or special tests to safely take loratadine.
FDA pregnancy category B: This medication is not expected to be harmful to an
unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
Loratadine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this
medication without telling your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a baby.
Loratadine disintegrating tablets (Claritin Reditab, Alavert) may contain phenylalanine.
Talk to your doctor before using this form of loratadine if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 years old without the advice of
a doctor.
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