Side effects claritin non drowsy. Claritin: Non-Drowsy Antihistamine for Allergy Relief – Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions

03.12.202024.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the uses of Claritin. How does Claritin work to relieve allergy symptoms. What are the potential side effects of Claritin. Is Claritin safe for children and pregnant women. How should Claritin be taken for optimal effectiveness. What precautions should be considered when using Claritin. Can Claritin cause drowsiness or interact with other medications.

Содержание

Understanding Claritin: A Powerful Antihistamine for Allergy Relief

Claritin, also known by its generic name loratadine, is a widely used antihistamine medication designed to provide relief from various allergy symptoms. As a non-drowsy option, it has gained popularity among those seeking effective allergy management without the sedating effects often associated with older antihistamines.

Are you wondering how Claritin works to combat allergies? Claritin functions by blocking the action of histamine, a substance produced by the body during allergic reactions. By inhibiting histamine, Claritin helps alleviate common allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching from hives.

Key Uses of Claritin

Treatment of hay fever symptoms
Relief from seasonal allergies
Alleviation of hives-related itching
Management of year-round allergies

It’s important to note that while Claritin is effective for many allergy symptoms, it is not intended to prevent or treat severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). For individuals at risk of anaphylaxis, carrying an epinephrine injector as prescribed by a doctor remains crucial.

Proper Usage and Dosage Guidelines for Claritin

To maximize the benefits of Claritin while minimizing potential risks, it’s essential to follow proper usage guidelines. How should you take Claritin for optimal effectiveness?

For adults and children 6 years and older, the typical dosage is one tablet (10 mg) once daily, with or without food. The medication is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and liquid formulations.

Dosage Considerations

Adults and children 6 years and older: 10 mg once daily
Children 2-5 years: Use liquid or chewable tablets as directed by a doctor
Children under 2 years: Consult a pediatrician before use

When using the liquid form, it’s crucial to use a special measuring device or spoon to ensure accurate dosing. Avoid using household spoons, as they may not provide the correct amount.

Do you know how long it takes for Claritin to start working? While individual responses may vary, many people experience relief within 1-3 hours after taking the medication. For optimal results, it’s often recommended to take Claritin at the same time each day, especially when used for ongoing allergy management.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Profile of Claritin

One of the most appealing aspects of Claritin is its generally favorable safety profile. Unlike some older antihistamines, Claritin is less likely to cause significant drowsiness when used as directed. However, as with any medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects.

What are the most common side effects of Claritin? While many people experience no side effects at all, some individuals may encounter:

Headache
Dry mouth
Fatigue
Nervousness
Stomach pain

These side effects are typically mild and often resolve on their own. However, if you experience persistent or severe side effects, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, more serious allergic reactions can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Claritin for Children: Safety and Efficacy Considerations

Parents often wonder about the safety of using Claritin for their children’s allergy symptoms. Is Claritin safe for children, and at what age can they start using it?

Claritin is approved for use in children as young as 2 years old when using the liquid or chewable tablet forms. For regular tablets or capsules, the recommended minimum age is 6 years. However, it’s always best to consult with a pediatrician before starting any new medication for a child.

Age-Specific Guidelines for Claritin Use in Children

2-5 years: Use liquid or chewable tablets under medical supervision
6 years and older: Can use tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, or liquid forms
Under 2 years: Not recommended without explicit doctor’s guidance

When administering Claritin to children, it’s crucial to follow the dosage instructions carefully and use the appropriate form of the medication for the child’s age. If symptoms persist or worsen after three days of treatment, consult a healthcare provider.

Claritin During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know

For expectant or nursing mothers, the decision to use any medication requires careful consideration. Is Claritin safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

While Claritin is generally considered to have a favorable safety profile, it should only be used during pregnancy when clearly necessary. Limited studies have not shown an increased risk of birth defects, but as with all medications during pregnancy, the potential benefits should be weighed against any possible risks.

Regarding breastfeeding, Claritin does pass into breast milk. However, it is generally considered unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Nevertheless, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using Claritin while breastfeeding to make an informed decision based on individual circumstances.

Key Points for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Use only when clearly necessary during pregnancy
Consult a healthcare provider before use while breastfeeding
Consider potential benefits versus risks
Explore non-medicinal allergy management strategies when possible

Interactions and Precautions: Maximizing Claritin’s Safety and Effectiveness

To ensure the safe and effective use of Claritin, it’s important to be aware of potential interactions with other substances and any necessary precautions. Can Claritin interact with other medications or medical conditions?

While Claritin has fewer drug interactions compared to some other antihistamines, it’s still important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking. Some substances that may interact with Claritin include:

Ketoconazole (an antifungal medication)
Erythromycin (an antibiotic)
Cimetidine (used for treating heartburn and ulcers)

Additionally, individuals with liver or kidney disease should use Claritin with caution and under medical supervision, as these conditions can affect how the body processes the medication.

Special Precautions to Consider

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Claritin, as it may increase the risk of side effects
Use caution when operating machinery or driving until you know how Claritin affects you
Inform your doctor if you have phenylketonuria (PKU) before using chewable tablets, as they may contain aspartame
Be cautious if you have a history of allergies to medications

By being aware of these interactions and precautions, you can help ensure that Claritin provides optimal allergy relief while minimizing potential risks.

Comparing Claritin to Other Antihistamines: Making an Informed Choice

With numerous antihistamine options available, it’s natural to wonder how Claritin compares to other allergy medications. How does Claritin stack up against other popular antihistamines like Zyrtec or Allegra?

Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Allegra (fexofenadine) are all second-generation antihistamines, known for causing less drowsiness compared to older antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl). However, there are some differences to consider:

Claritin vs. Zyrtec vs. Allegra: Key Comparisons

Onset of action: Zyrtec and Allegra may work faster (about 1 hour) compared to Claritin (1-3 hours)
Duration of effect: All three typically provide 24-hour relief
Drowsiness potential: Zyrtec may cause more drowsiness than Claritin or Allegra
Effectiveness for different symptoms: Zyrtec may be more effective for hives, while Claritin and Allegra are often preferred for hay fever symptoms

It’s important to note that individual responses to these medications can vary. Some people may find one more effective or tolerable than others. If Claritin doesn’t provide adequate relief, it may be worth discussing alternative options with a healthcare provider.

When choosing an antihistamine, consider factors such as the specific allergy symptoms you’re experiencing, any side effects you’ve had with previous medications, and your daily routine (e.g., if you need to avoid even minimal drowsiness for work or driving).

Long-term Use of Claritin: Benefits and Considerations

For individuals with chronic allergies, long-term use of Claritin may be recommended. Is it safe to take Claritin daily for extended periods, and what should you consider for ongoing use?

Claritin is generally considered safe for long-term use when taken as directed. Many people with persistent allergies take it daily for months or even years without experiencing significant adverse effects. However, there are some factors to keep in mind for extended use:

Long-term Claritin Usage: Key Points

Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are recommended to assess ongoing need and effectiveness
Be aware of any changes in symptoms or new side effects that develop over time
Consider periodic breaks from the medication to evaluate if allergy symptoms have changed or improved
Explore complementary strategies for allergy management, such as environmental controls or immunotherapy

While Claritin is effective for many people, it’s important to remember that it treats the symptoms of allergies rather than the underlying cause. For some individuals with severe or persistent allergies, additional treatments like allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be beneficial in conjunction with or as an alternative to daily antihistamine use.

If you find that your allergy symptoms are not adequately controlled with long-term Claritin use, or if you develop any new health concerns, consult with an allergist or healthcare provider to discuss your treatment options and ensure you’re receiving the most appropriate care for your specific situation.

Claritin Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is an antihistamine that treats symptoms such as itching, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing from “hay fever” and other allergies. It is also used to relieve itching from hives.Loratadine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always carry your epinephrine injector with you. Do not use loratadine in place of your epinephrine.If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the manufacturer’s package instructions carefully so you know when to consult your doctor or pharmacist. (See also Precautions section.)If you are using the tablets or capsules, do not use in children younger than 6 years unless directed by the doctor. If you are using the liquid or chewable tablets, do not use in children younger than 2 years unless directed by the doctor.

How to use Claritin Tablet

If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all the directions on the product package before taking this medication. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, follow your doctor’s directions and the instructions on your prescription label. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once a day or as directed by your doctor or the product package. If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

The dosage is based on your age, condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take more of this medication than recommended for your age.

Tell your doctor if your allergy symptoms do not improve after 3 days of treatment or if your hives last more than 6 weeks. Get medical help right away if your condition worsens or you think you have a serious medical problem (such as a very serious allergic reaction/anaphylaxis).

Side Effects

This drug usually has no side effects. If you have any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking loratadine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to desloratadine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. Do not self-treat with this medication without consulting your doctor first if you have certain medical conditions such as: kidney disease, liver disease.

Loratadine does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses. However, do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

If you have hives and your doctor has prescribed loratadine, or if you are considering using this drug to treat your own hives, tell your doctor right away if you have any of these other symptoms because they may be signs of a more serious condition: hives that are an unusual color, hives that look bruised or blistered, hives that do not itch.

Liquid products or chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, or confusion. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before taking this drug.

This medication passes into breast milk. However, it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Loratadine is very similar to desloratadine. Do not use medications containing desloratadine while using loratadine.

This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Claritin Tablet interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication for you, do not share it with others.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Different brands/strengths of this medication may have different storage requirements. Read the package labeling or ask your pharmacist for the storage requirements for the product you are using. Protect from light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Claritin 10 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: CLARITIN 10 458

This medicine is a white, round, tablet imprinted with “CLARITIN 10” and “458”.

Claritin 5 mg/5 mL oral solution

Color: colorlessShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a white, round, tablet imprinted with “CLARITIN 10” and “458”.

Available coupons

Save up to 80% on your prescription with WebMDRx

Drug Survey

Have you ever purchased Claritin Tablet?

Yes, In the past 3 months

Yes, In the past 6 months

Yes, In the past year

Haven’t purchased but considering

Don’t plan to purchase

This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Claritin-D 24 Hour Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

How to use Claritin-D 24 Hour

Take this medication by mouth usually once daily; or take as directed by your doctor. Take with a full glass of water. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed.

Do not take this medication for several days before allergy testing since test results can be affected. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Side Effects

Dry mouth, mild stomach upset, trouble sleeping, dizziness, headache, nervousness, loss of appetite, or thirst may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fast/irregular heartbeat, uncontrolled shaking or tremor, mental/mood changes (such as confusion), difficulty urinating.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: seizures.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking loratadine with pseudoephedrine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to desloratadine; or if you have any other allergies. Also, tell your doctor if you have had serious side effects from similar medications (such as other decongestants, including phenylephrine). This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, problems urinating (such as due to enlarged prostate), high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems (such as coronary artery disease), thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism), glaucoma.

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially fast/irregular heartbeat, dizziness, problems urinating, trouble sleeping, or confusion. Dizziness, trouble sleeping, and confusion can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Taking MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as cough-and-cold products) because they may contain similar ingredients (decongestants such as phenylephrine). Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

Loratadine is very similar to desloratadine. Do not use medications containing desloratadine while using loratadine.

This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as allergy skin testing), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Claritin-D 24 Hour interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

Do not share this medication with others.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.