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Loratadine
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Loratadine is an antihistamine available in over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. It is used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever and other outdoor and indoor allergies. Loratadine can be the only active ingredient in an allergy medicine, or it can be found in medicines that not only treat allergies, but other symptoms as well, such as nasal congestion.
Loratadine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is safe and effective when used according to label directions. Parents and other caregivers should be aware that loratadine-containing medicines may come in different dosage strengths. Some products have dosing instructions for children between the ages of two and six, while other medicines are only recommended for use in adults and children over the age of six.
*Please read the OTC Drug Facts label carefully for active ingredient information for specific products, as some may have more than one active ingredient.
Tips for Medicines with Loratidine
When using loratadine-containing medicines, it is important to know that:
- You should only take what the label directs. Taking more medicine may cause drowsiness.
Do not use if:
- You have ever had an allergic reaction to loratadine
Ask a healthcare professional before use if:
- You have liver or kidney disease. A doctor may determine that you require a different dose.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Stop use and ask a doctor if:
- You have an allergic reaction. Get medical help right away.
- You take too much. Immediately contact a doctor the poison control national helpline at 800.222.1222.
If you have questions about any of the medicines you are taking or if you have any unexpected side effects, talk to a healthcare professional. And of course, keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Tips for Parents
- Talk to a healthcare professional before using an oral OTC allergy medicine containing loratadine in a child under the age of two. Some oral OTC allergy medicines containing loratadine are not labeled for use in children under the age of six. Read the Drug Facts label carefully for appropriate child dosing information and contact a healthcare professional as directed.
- Loratadine-containing medicines are available in different dosage strengths. Do not give any OTC medicine to a child that is only intended for use in adults.
- Read the label for proper child dosing instructions. Contact a healthcare professional as directed.
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