Loratadine (Claritin)
10 mg
Stop: Call 911 or get emergency help
Fast-spreading hives can be serious. Hives AND breathing trouble, tight throat or chest, swelling, trouble swallowing, fainting/racing heart, or vomiting/cramps/diarrhea: use epinephrine if available. Seek emergency care.
Seek medical help first
Use this information only if you are unable to contact your provider. Then, contact your provider as soon as possible.
What it may treat & how much to take
- 1
Seasonal allergies
Sneezing; runny/stuffy nose; itchy watery eyes or throat; no fever.
Take 1 tablet once daily.
- 2
Hives — no other symptoms
Itchy raised red/pink welts; skin only, breathing normal.
Take 1 tablet once daily.
- 3
Itchy rash / bug bites
Itchy red bumps or streaky patches.
Take 1 tablet once daily. You may also use triamcinolone acetonide (see card).
- 4
Mild skin-only allergic reaction
Hives or itching after food, medicine, or a sting. Breathing is fine.
Take 1 tablet right away, then once daily. Watch closely for emergency signs.
- 5
Allergy symptoms with a cold
Sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
Take 1 tablet once daily. This will not cure or shorten the cold.
How to take it
Never more than 1 tablet in 24 hours. With or without food. Take around the same time daily.
Important information
Treats symptoms only; does not cure allergy or infection and is not rescue medicine for anaphylaxis.
Common side effects
Headache; dry mouth; mild tiredness; upset stomach; nervousness or trouble sleeping.
Do not take if
Past allergic reaction to Claritin (loratadine).
Ask your provider or pharmacist first if
You have liver disease, kidney disease, or are over 65 and take several medicines.
If pregnant or breastfeeding
Ask a doctor before use. It is one of the best-studied preferred antihistamines during pregnancy.