Claritin: Loratadine Information

Claritin is the first non-sedating OTC antihistamine and is the brand name of loratadine, marketed by Schering Canada Inc. It guarantees all-day allergy relief from symptoms like watery, itchy, red eyes; sneezing; runny nose; itchy throat and the like. As an antihistamine, claritin (loratadine) works by obstructing and countering the action of histamine, which is a naturally occurring chemical that causes allergy symptoms.

However, Claritin also grants relief from the drowsiness which other allergy relief-givers cause. The difference between Claritin and other OC antihistamines like Benadryl comes in here, because the former is not accompanied by restrictions on driving or while doing job functions, for e.g., while operating heavy machinery.

This is the principal reason why Claritin has been the number 1 prescribed antihistamine since September 1994, for an impressive 10 years running. The difference between Claritin and other antihistamines is also in the dosage: all formulations of Claritin are original strength and are to be taken once every day.

Claritin is recommended for those patients who want to treat their allergies themselves and who have been taking other antihistamines in the past. However, other patients who have prevalent medical conditions like asthma would benefit from a doctor’s advice and a prescriptive medicine owing to their unique situation.

The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved Claritin Tablets and Claritin RediTabs Tablets for children who are six years old or older. Claritin Syrup can however be taken by children two years and older. The most common side effects with Claritin (loratadine) Tablets 10 mg occurred about as often as they did with a sugar pill, including headache, fatigue, and dry mouth.