Loratadine is a medication that belongs to the antihistamine class and is used to treat a variety of allergic conditions. Loratadine works to block the effect of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction, which helps relieve symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, and red and itchy eyes.

Loratadine uses:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
• Perennial allergic rhinitis.
• Symptoms of chronic idiopathic urticaria (skin rash consisting of cells and blood).

Warnings and precautions:

• Do not take loratadine if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.
• Talk to your doctor before taking loratadine if you have serious liver problems.
• Avoid taking loratadine before having skin tests for allergies, because it may affect the test results.

Possible side effects:

• Stop taking loratadine and consult your doctor if you develop allergic symptoms such as a skin rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• The most common side effects include drowsiness, headache, increased appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

More common side effects in children:

• Headache.
• Nervousness.
• Tired.