Loratadine

Medically Reviewed by HaVy Ngo, Pharm.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 08, 2022

Directions


How should I take loratadine?

Take loratadine medication exactly as prescribed or recommended by your doctor. 

Follow all directions on the prescription label or the medicine label. Never take a larger or smaller amount than the prescribed or recommended dose.

Cold or allergy medicine such as loratadine is intended to be used over a short period to provide temporary relief. 

Loratadine is usually taken once daily with or without food. Follow your doctor’s instructions. 

Do not give loratadine to children younger than 2 years old. Read all dosing instructions provided.

Inappropriate use of cough or cold medicine can lead to death, especially for young children.Always talk to a doctor before giving cough or cold medicine to a child. Do not adjust your child’s dose without consulting their pediatrician.

Loratadine oral tablet and capsule (loratadine 10 mg) should be swallowed whole. Do not cut, break, or chew. 

Loratadine chewable tablets (loratadine 5 mg, loratadine 10 mg) must be chewed before swallowing. 

Always measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided. You can use a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup for the most accurate dosing. Do not use household items such as kitchen spoons.

Instructions for the use of the loratadine orally disintegrating tablet:

  • Keep all the tablets inside the blister pack until you are ready to take one. Open the package and peel the foil carefully, do not push these tablets through the foil as they may get damaged. 
  • Ensure your hands are dry before you handle an orally disintegrating tablet, as moisture can disintegrate it.
  • Do not swallow whole. Place the orally disintegrating tablet on your tongue and let it dissolve entirely without chewing. 
  • Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. You may drink some water after the tablet dissolves to help swallow it.

Let your doctor know if your symptoms worsen or do not get better. 

Missed dose: Loratadine is used as needed for cold and allergy symptoms. Loratadine is intended for once-a-day dosing; do not take more than one dose within a 24-hour period. Do not take two doses at a time. 

Storage: Keep the medication in its original container; keep it tightly closed, out of reach of children, pets, and other people. Many people store their medications in the bathroom; this is not recommended due to moisture and heat.

Unused medicine: Like other prescription medications, do not consume loratadine after the expiration date. Unneeded medicines should be disposed of appropriately to prevent children, pets, and other people from getting to them. Your local pharmacy can provide information about medication drug take-back programs. You can also learn more about proper medication disposal.

NOTEThis sheet is a summary and may not contain all possible information. If you have more questions or concerns about loratadine, talk to your pharmacist or doctor to ensure that this information applies to you or your family member. 


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Discounted prices for Loratadine (Claritin)
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