What are Loratadine tablets?

Loratadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine that can provide relief for allergy symptoms.

Loratadine can be taken by children and adults from the age of 2 years to treat the symptoms caused by mild to moderate allergic conditions.

What is Loratadine used for?

Loratadine tablets can be used to treat symptoms of allergies caused by:

• Hay fever
• Skin reactions - rashes such as hives
• Pets and dust mites
• Insect bites and stings
• Mild food allergies

Symptoms of allergies may include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy nose and throat
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Itchy skin and rashes

How does Loratadine work?

Loratadine is an antihistamine and works just as the name suggests, by blocking the substance histamine that causes allergy reactions.

Loratadine vs Cetirizine - can you take them together?

It is not recommended to take more than one antihistamine within 24 hours unless you have been advised to do this by a doctor.

Loratadine and cetirizine both fall into the category of non-drowsy antihistamines. They both work in the same way to reduce the symptoms of mild to moderate allergic reactions.

What is the difference between Loratadine and Cetirizine?

Both loratadine and cetirizine are long-acting, non-drowsy antihistamines that have similar effectiveness in tackling symptoms of allergies.

Cetirizine, unlike Loratadine, however, has been reported to cause the following side effects:

• Feeling sick
• Jitteriness
• Sore throat
• Drowsiness

Like all medicines, Loratadine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Stop taking Loratadine tablets and contact your doctor at once if you notice signs of:

• An allergic reaction such as:

1. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
2. Difficulty in breathing
3. Shock
4. Collapse
5. Rashes
6. Itchiness

The most commonly reported side effects in adults and children over 12 years of age are:

• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Increased appetite
• Difficulty sleeping

The most commonly reported side effects in children aged 2 to 12 years are:

• Headache
• Nervousness
• Tiredness

Information Leaflet

Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.

• View the patient information leaflet for Loratadine.