Claritin (loratadine): What It Does and Who Should Consider It

Claritin (active ingredient: loratadine) is a popular over-the-counter antihistamine used to treat seasonal allergies, hay fever, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. People pick it because it generally doesn’t make you sleepy like first-generation antihistamines. If you want allergy relief that won’t fog your day, Claritin is one of the main options to try.

How Claritin Works & How to Take It

Loratadine blocks histamine, the chemical your body releases during allergic reactions. For most adults and teens, the usual dose is 10 mg once a day. Many products are available as tablets, chewables, or syrup. Children’s strengths exist too—follow the product label or ask a pharmacist for the right formulation and dose for kids.

Take it at the same time each day for steady control. It can take an hour or two to start working and may take a few days for full effect during ongoing exposure (pollen season, for example). You can take it with or without food.

Safety Tips, Side Effects & Interactions

Common side effects are mild: headache, dry mouth, or rare drowsiness. If you feel unusually sleepy, avoid driving or heavy machinery. People with liver or kidney problems should talk to their doctor—dose adjustments or a different medicine may be needed.

Watch for drug interactions. Strong CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 inhibitors (certain antifungals, some antibiotics, certain antidepressants) can change how loratadine is processed. If you take other prescription drugs, ask your pharmacist if mixing them with loratadine is safe.

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your healthcare provider before using Claritin. For young kids, always match the product to their age and weight and follow the label or a clinician’s advice.

In case of accidentally taking too much, contact poison control or seek emergency care. If you notice severe allergic signs—trouble breathing, swelling of face or throat—get emergency help right away.

Shopping smart: Claritin is available OTC in pharmacies across Canada and online. Generic loratadine products are cheaper and contain the same active drug. When buying online, pick a licensed pharmacy and avoid offers that seem too good to be true.

Comparing options: If Claritin doesn’t help, try other second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine or fexofenadine. Cetirizine can work faster but may cause more drowsiness for some people. Fexofenadine is another good non-drowsy alternative. Ask your pharmacist which fits your lifestyle best.

Quick reminders: don’t mix loratadine with other medicines that list loratadine as an ingredient (some cold/allergy combos) to avoid doubling the dose. Keep a short list of your medications and show it to the pharmacist if you’re unsure.

Want more on allergy meds, safe online pharmacies, or alternatives? Our site has easy guides and comparisons to help you choose what’s right for you.