Have you ever found yourself wondering which allergy medication is best for you? Find out in today's video! Stay tuned until the end to see my pro's and con's of each medication!

Does loratadine (Claritin) may you drowsy or Does loratadine keep you awake? I speak about the potential side effects of the popular allergy medication.

All information in this video is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.

Loratadine is a second generation antihistamine that is indicated for management of allergic rhinitis. In this video, we will discuss the mechanism, precautions and side effects of this drug.

Loratadine is a second generation antihistamine available over the counter worldwide.

In this video we discuss its use, dosage and side effects.

In particular we discuss the link between long term antihistamine use and weight gain.

Describe using Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), Sudafed PE (phenylephrine) and Loratadine (Claritin, Alavert) together.
Talk about cold and allergy symptoms treated.

All information in this video is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.

Whether Claritin now available as the generic loratadine actually works at the currently approved dose remains an issue. Originally an FDA examiner believed no less than 40 mg was necessary to provide effective relief of allergic nasal symptoms. Unfortunately at this dose drowsiness occurs and the label could no longer boast of non-sedating qualities. At the current daily dose of 10mg, the drug works somewhat better than a placebo. For most people troubled by seasonal or perennial allergies, Flonase, Rhinocort or Nasonex remain more effective.

What is loratadine?


Loratadine is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Loratadine is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, hay fever, itching, and other cold or allergy symptoms.

Loratadine is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions.


Warnings.


You should not take this medication if you are allergic to loratadine or to desloratadine (Clarinex).

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Some chewable dosage forms of loratadine may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using these forms of loratadine if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine if you have liver or kidney disease.


How should I take loratadine?


Use loratadine exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Cold or allergy medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old. Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children.

Loratadine is usually taken once per day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not crush, chew, or break the regular tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

A child's dose is based on age and some forms of loratadine are not for use in children younger than 6 years old. Carefully follow the dosing instructions provided with this medicine.

Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

To take the orally disintegrating tablet (Claritin RediTab, Alavert):

Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take it. Open the package and peel back the foil. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may damage the tablet.

Use dry hands to remove the tablet and place it in your mouth.

Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. If desired, you may drink liquid to help swallow the dissolved tablet.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.


Loratadine side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to loratadine: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

fast or uneven heart rate;

severe headache; or

a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

Common loratadine side effects may include:

headache;

feeling tired or drowsy;

stomach pain, vomiting;

dry mouth; or

feeling nervous or hyperactive.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


Dosing information.


Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:

10 mg orally once a day.
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day.

Use: Temporary relief of symptoms associated with hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies (e. g. , runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, itching of the nose/throat).


Usual Adult Dose for Urticaria:

10 mg orally once a day.
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day.

Use: Temporary relief of symptoms associated with hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies (e. g. , runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, itching of the nose/throat).


Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:

2 to 5 years: 5 mg orally once a day.
-Maximum dose: 5 mg/day.

6 years and older: 10 mg orally once a day.
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day.

Use: Temporary relief of symptoms associated with hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies (e. g. , runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, itching of the nose/throat).


Usual Pediatric Dose for Urticaria:

2 to 5 years: 5 mg orally once a day.
-Maximum dose: 5 mg/day.

6 years and older: 10 mg orally once a day.
-Maximum dose: 10 mg/day.

Use: Temporary relief of symptoms associated with hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies (e. g. , runny nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, itching of the nose/throat).

Can you take loratadine (Claritin) with high blood pressure? Does the common antihistamine (allergy medication) have any effect on blood pressure?
The common allergy treatment is unlikely to affect blood pressure, the most common side effects are also discussed. Other items to consider when using Claritin in a person with hypertension (high blood pressure) are also addressed.
All information in this video is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.

Does loratadine (Claritin) raise or lower blood pressure. Is there any affect on blood pressure. Does the common OTC allergy medication have an effect on blood pressure.
All information in this video is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.

"Loratadine is an antihistamine drug commonly used to treat a variety of allergies and conditions. It works by blocking the release of histamine, a chemical released in response to allergens. By reducing the amount of histamine in the body, loratadine can help relieve symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. This medication is available both over the counter and by prescription, and it can be taken in tablet, liquid, or nasal spray form. It can be a very effective treatment for allergies, but it’s important to understand the potential side effects and how to properly use it. In this guide, we’ll explain what loratadine is used for, the potential benefits and risks, and how to take it safely.
What is Loratadine?
Loratadine (also known as Claritin) is one of the most common antihistamines used today. It’s a first-generation antihistamine, meaning it’s one of the oldest and most commonly prescribed types of antihistamines. Both over-the-counter and prescription versions of loratadine are available, and it’s often prescribed as part of allergy treatment plans. Loratadine is used to treat symptoms caused by allergies, such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. It can also be used to treat hives and insect bites. Doctors may also recommend this drug to treat chronic urticaria (a skin condition that causes swelling and itching), insomnia, and migraine headaches.
Uses of Loratadine
Some of the most common uses of loratadine include: - Allergies: For allergies and other related conditions, loratadine is prescribed to relieve symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. - Hives: Hives are caused by an allergic reaction, and loratadine is often prescribed to treat them. - Insomnia: Some people find loratadine helps them sleep better, and it’s a common recommendation for people with insomnia. - Chronic urticaria: Chronic urticaria causes itchy, swollen skin, and a doctor may recommend loratadine to treat it.
Benefits of Loratadine
Some of the potential benefits of loratadine include: - Relieving allergy symptoms: Loratadine can be a very effective treatment for allergies, especially when taken in conjunction with other allergy medications. - Suppressing the immune system: Some research suggests loratadine may reduce the number and severity of allergic reactions in the long term, even when the drug is out of your system. - Treating hives: Many people find loratadine helps relieve the itching and swelling caused by hives. - Treating chronic urticaria: Chronic urticaria can be very uncomfortable, and loratadine can help reduce the symptoms.
Side Effects of Loratadine
Some of the potential side effects of loratadine include: - Drowsiness: Some people report feeling tired after taking loratadine. This is especially common in children. - Dry mouth: Loratadine can cause a dry mouth, most likely due to the antihistamine drying up the tissues of the mouth. - Headache: In rare cases, loratadine may cause headaches. - Nausea: Like dry mouth, nausea is another rare side effect of loratadine. - Somnolence: Loratadine can cause drowsiness, which can lead to somnolence (excessive sleepiness). - Weakness: Some people experience weakness after taking loratadine. This is most likely a result of the drowsiness.
How to Take Loratadine Safely
Like most prescription drugs, loratadine is not entirely risk-free. To minimize the risk of side effects, you should take it only as prescribed and follow the directions listed on your prescription label. Some tips for taking loratadine safely include: - Sticking to your prescribed dosage: The dosage of loratadine may vary from person to person, so it’s important not to try to “increase” your dosage. - Avoiding other drugs: Many drugs interact with loratadine. Before taking loratadine with other medications, make sure your doctor knows about all of the drugs you’re taking. - Eating and drinking normally: While you may feel like eating or drinking while taking loratadine isn’t worth the effort, remember that these activities do not increase or decrease the side effects associated with the drug.
What to Avoid When Taking Loratadine
Like many other prescription drugs, loratadine should not be combined with certain other drugs.

"DISCLAIMER: The content of this video is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for medical consultation. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or healthcare professional before taking any medication or starting any treatment. Treatments and medications should be prescribed and supervised by a qualified medical doctor only. Individual results may vary and the effectiveness of any treatment mentioned in this video is not guaranteed. Do not self-medicate, if you have any health problems, it is important to seek medical help immediately.