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Second-generation (non-sedating) antihistamine — H1 antagonist Pregnancy: Compatible — most safety data of second-generation antihistamines; preferred in pregnancy.

Loratadine 10mg Tablets

Brand names: Clarityn, Boots Allergy Relief

Adult dose

Dose: 10 mg once daily
Route: Oral
Frequency: Once daily
Max: 10 mg/day
Allergic rhinitis, urticaria, eczema: 10 mg once daily. Non-sedating at standard doses. May be taken with or without food. Available OTC. Duration of action 24 hours — once daily dosing adequate.

Paediatric dose

Route: Oral
Frequency: Once daily
Max: 10 mg/day
Concentration: 5 mg/ml
2–12 years <30 kg: 5 mg once daily (syrup 5mg/5mL). 2–12 years ≥30 kg: 10 mg once daily. ≥12 years: 10 mg once daily. Below age 2: not licensed.

Dose adjustments

Renal

eGFR <30: 10 mg on alternate days (increased half-life).

Hepatic

Severe hepatic impairment: 10 mg on alternate days.

Clinical pearls

  • Preferred antihistamine in pregnancy — most human safety data of all second-generation antihistamines
  • Non-sedating at therapeutic dose — safe for driving; some individuals may experience mild sedation
  • Active metabolite desloratadine (Neoclarityn) available if preferred — slightly longer half-life
  • Suitable for long-term use in perennial allergic rhinitis
  • Available OTC — first-line recommendation for mild allergic rhinitis per ARIA guidelines

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to loratadine or desloratadine

Side effects

  • Headache
  • Dry mouth (mild)
  • Fatigue
  • Sedation (rare at standard dose; may occur in susceptible individuals)
  • GI upset

Interactions

  • Ketoconazole, erythromycin, cimetidine — increase loratadine plasma levels (limited clinical significance)
  • CNS depressants — potential additive sedation at high doses

Monitoring

  • Symptom response

Reference: BNFc; BNF; ARIA Guidelines; BSACI Allergic Rhinitis; BNFc. Verify against your local formulary and the latest BNF before prescribing.

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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