Claritin
Over-the-counterWhat is Claritin?
Claritin is an over-the-counter allergy medication that contains loratadine as its active ingredient. Loratadine belongs to a class of drugs called second-generation antihistamines, which block the effects of histamine in your body. Histamine is a chemical your immune system releases when it encounters allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
Unlike older antihistamines, Claritin is designed to provide relief without causing drowsiness in most people. It works for 24 hours with just one dose per day. This makes it easier to manage seasonal allergies, also called hay fever, and year-round allergic reactions.
Claritin comes in several forms including tablets, liquid gels, and chewables. It starts working within 1 to 3 hours after you take it. The medication is available without a prescription for adults and children ages 2 and older.
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Common uses
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis, which causes sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes from outdoor allergens
- Perennial allergic rhinitis from indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mold
- Chronic hives, also called chronic idiopathic urticaria, that cause itchy welts on the skin
- Itchy, watery eyes caused by allergens
- Nasal congestion and sinus pressure related to allergies
How it works
Claritin works by blocking histamine H1 receptors in your body. When you breathe in an allergen, your immune system releases histamine as part of an allergic response. Histamine binds to receptors in your nose, eyes, and skin, causing inflammation and typical allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
Loratadine prevents histamine from attaching to these receptors. This stops the allergic reaction from happening in the first place. Because loratadine does not easily cross into your brain, it causes less drowsiness than older antihistamines like diphenhydramine. The medication stays active in your body for about 24 hours, providing all-day relief from symptoms.
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Dosage information
Adults and children 6 years and older typically take 10 mg once daily. Children ages 2 to 5 years usually take 5 mg once daily. Claritin can be taken with or without food. Do not take more than the recommended dose in 24 hours. For best results, take Claritin at the same time each day during allergy season.
Side effects
- Headache
- Drowsiness, though less common than with older antihistamines
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or feeling tired
- Stomach pain or nausea
- Nervousness in children
Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions, fast or irregular heartbeat, and severe dizziness. Stop taking Claritin and seek medical help immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of your face or throat, or severe skin reactions.
Drug interactions
- Other antihistamines, which may increase the risk of side effects
- Medications that affect liver enzymes, such as ketoconazole and erythromycin, which can increase loratadine levels
- Central nervous system depressants like alcohol, which may increase drowsiness
- Amiodarone and cimetidine, which can affect how your body processes loratadine
Blood test monitoring
Claritin does not typically require routine blood test monitoring for most people. However, if you have liver or kidney problems, your doctor may want to check your liver function tests and kidney function tests before starting treatment. People with chronic conditions should discuss appropriate monitoring with their healthcare provider. If you take Claritin long-term and develop new symptoms, a complete blood count may help rule out other causes of your symptoms.
Related blood tests
Taking Claritin? Monitor your levels.
- Track how your body responds
- Catch side effects early with blood work
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
No, Claritin is available over the counter without a prescription. You can find it at most pharmacies and retail stores. Rite Aid will offer convenient ordering options when pharmacy services return soon.
Claritin typically starts working within 1 to 3 hours after you take it. Most people notice relief from allergy symptoms within this timeframe. The medication continues working for 24 hours, so one daily dose provides all-day coverage.
Yes, Claritin is safe for daily use throughout allergy season. Many people take it daily from spring through fall to prevent symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you need to use it every day for more than 6 months.
Most people do not feel drowsy when taking Claritin. It is a non-drowsy antihistamine designed to avoid sedation. However, a small number of people may still experience some drowsiness, especially when first starting the medication.
People with liver or kidney disease should talk to their doctor before taking Claritin. You may need a lower dose or less frequent dosing. Your doctor may recommend blood tests to check your liver and kidney function before starting treatment.
Claritin is approved for children ages 2 and older. Children ages 2 to 5 take a lower 5 mg dose. Children 6 and older can take the adult dose of 10 mg daily. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package or from your pediatrician.
You should not take Claritin with other oral antihistamines at the same time. This can increase your risk of side effects. However, you can often use Claritin with nasal sprays or allergy eye drops. Check with your pharmacist about safe combinations.
If Claritin becomes less effective, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You may benefit from switching to a different antihistamine or adding other allergy treatments. Do not increase your Claritin dose beyond the recommended amount without medical guidance.
Most healthy people do not need routine blood tests while taking Claritin. However, if you have liver or kidney problems, your doctor may order periodic blood work. Rite Aid offers annual blood testing packages that check over 200 biomarkers, including liver and kidney function.
While Claritin is less likely to cause drowsiness than older antihistamines, combining it with alcohol may still increase sleepiness. It is best to limit alcohol consumption while taking any antihistamine. If you do drink, start with small amounts to see how your body reacts.