Loratadine

Loratadine is a non-sedating antihistamine (second generation) medicine available in Bangladesh under many brand names. Below are its uses, side effects and precautions — and every brand with its current price.

Loratadine is commonly prescribed for:

• Allergic rhinitis (seasonal and year-round) — sneezing, runny or itchy nose, and itchy, watery eyes caused by dust, pollen, mould or pet dander
• Hay fever symptoms
• Chronic urticaria (long-standing hives) — relief of itching and reduction in the number and size of wheals
• Itchy allergic skin conditions such as rashes and insect-bite reactions
• Allergy symptoms accompanying the common cold, when recommended by a doctor

Your doctor may also prescribe Loratadine for other allergy-related conditions not listed here.

Loratadine is generally well tolerated and most people experience no problems. Possible side effects include:

• Headache
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness (uncommon at the usual dose)
• Stomach upset or nausea
• Nervousness or restlessness, mainly in children

Serious reactions are rare. Seek medical help immediately if you notice swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, severe rash, or a fast or irregular heartbeat after taking Loratadine. If any side effect persists or troubles you, contact your doctor.

• Tell your doctor if you have liver disease or kidney disease — the dose may need adjustment
• Stop taking Loratadine at least 48 hours before allergy skin tests, as it can mask positive results
• Do not give to children under 2 years unless prescribed by a doctor
• Some formulations contain sugar or lactose — inform your doctor if you have diabetes or an intolerance
• Although drowsiness is uncommon, see how Loratadine affects you before driving or operating machinery
• Do not exceed the recommended dose — higher doses can cause sleepiness or palpitations

Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements and herbal products you take. Medicines that may interact with Loratadine include:

• Ketoconazole and other azole antifungals — can raise loratadine blood levels
• Erythromycin and similar macrolide antibiotics
• Cimetidine (an acid-reducing medicine)

These combinations increase the amount of loratadine in the blood, although this is usually not clinically dangerous. Avoid taking other sedating antihistamines together with Loratadine, and limit alcohol, which can add to any drowsiness. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new medicine.

Do not take Loratadine if you:

• Are allergic to loratadine, desloratadine or any other ingredient of the preparation
• Have previously had a severe reaction (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty) after taking this medicine

Use with caution, and only on a doctor's advice, in severe liver impairment, in children under 2 years, and during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are unsure whether Loratadine is suitable for you, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking it.

Pregnancy: Loratadine is generally regarded as one of the safer antihistamines in pregnancy, but no medicine should be taken during pregnancy without medical advice. Use Loratadine only if your doctor considers it necessary.

Breastfeeding: Small amounts of loratadine pass into breast milk. Because it is non-sedating and used in low doses, doctors often consider it compatible with breastfeeding, but you should still consult your doctor before use. Watch the baby for unusual sleepiness or irritability and report any concern to your doctor.

Store Loratadine below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the medicine in its original pack until use.

• Keep out of the reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Do not refrigerate syrups unless the label says so, and discard any remaining syrup within the period stated on the label after opening