Claritin is a medication with the active ingredient loratadine. It is also known by the names Alavert and Claratyne. Claritin is used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
The general pricing of Claritin is in the range of £0.32 – £0.57 for each pills. The amount and type of active ingredients (60 or 360 mg) determine its exact cost.
Loratadine
Claritin (loratadine) is prescribed for alleviating symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes. It also helps in managing chronic urticaria or hives, which present as itchy skin with reddened welts.
Loratadine works by blocking histamine receptors in the body, specifically the H1 receptor. This prevents histamine, a substance produced by the body during an allergic reaction, from causing symptoms such as swelling, itching, and redness.
Claritin is available in various forms including tablets, rapidly-dissolving tablets, chewable tablets, and syrup. Each form varies in its concentration and is suited for different age groups and preferences.
Claritin should be taken once daily with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole, whereas chewable tablets must be chewed entirely before swallowing. The rapidly-dissolving tablets should be placed on the tongue where they will dissolve quickly.
The typical adult dose is 10 mg once daily. This dosage is effective for alleviating symptoms without causing significant sedation or drowsiness, making it suitable for daytime use.
For children aged 6 years and older, the recommended dose is 10 mg once daily. For children aged 2 to 5 years, the prescribed dose is 5 mg once daily, usually administered in syrup or chewable tablet form.
Store Claritin at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Ensure that the medication is kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Claritin should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to loratadine or any of its excipients. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment due to potential accumulation leading to adverse effects.
Common side effects include headache, fatigue, and dry mouth. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea or abdominal pain. More rarely, some patients may feel dizziness or nervousness.
Loratadine may interact with other medications, including ketoconazole, erythromycin, and certain antacids. These interactions can affect loratadine’s metabolism and effectiveness. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are currently taking.
The safety of loratadine during pregnancy has not been fully established. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication.
Loratadine is excreted in breast milk, and its effects on a nursing infant are unknown. Lactating women are advised to consult their healthcare provider before taking Claritin to weigh the potential risks and benefits.
In the event of an overdose, symptoms such as severe drowsiness, headache, and rapid heart rate may occur. Immediate medical attention is required to manage and mitigate the effects of an overdose effectively.
After oral administration, loratadine is rapidly absorbed and undergoes first-pass metabolism primarily in the liver. It has a half-life of about 8.4 hours, with its major metabolite being descarboethoxyloratadine, which is pharmacologically active.
Patients with hepatic or renal impairment may require dose adjustments due to altered metabolism and excretion. Elderly patients should also use Claritin with caution due to the potential for reduced hepatic, renal, or cardiac function.
Long-term use of Claritin has not been associated with dependency or tolerance. Continuous use over extended periods is considered safe at the recommended dosages for managing chronic symptoms.
Compared to first-generation antihistamines, loratadine causes less sedation and cognitive impairment. Unlike some second-generation antihistamines, loratadine does not typically prolong the QT interval on ECG.