Drug information of Loratadin

Mechanism of effect

Antihistamine with selective peripheral histamine H1-receptor antagonist activity and sedative effects are also seen.

Pharmacodynamic

Competes with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells.

Pharmacokinetics

Time to peak: 8 to12 hours
Metabolism: Hepatic
Half-life elimination: ~12-15 hours
Excretion: Urine; feces
Small amounts of loratadin may be excreted in breast milk

Drug indications

Urticaria , Allergic Rhinitis

Dosage

Adults
• Allergic rhinitis:
Oral: 10 mg qDay or 5 mg twice daily; not to exceed 10 mg/day
Urticaria: Oral: 10 mg qDay; not to exceed 10 mg qDay
Pediatric
• Allergic rhinitis:
<2 years: Oral: Efficacy not established
2 to <6 years: Oral: 5 mg qday
>6 years :10 mg qday; not to exceed 10 mg qDay
• Urticaria:
<6 years: Efficacy not established
>6 years: 10 mg qDay

Drug contraindications

hypersensitivity to this drug

Side effects

Headache , dry mouth , difficulty urinating , skin rush , tiredness , Abdominal pain , Voice alteration

Interactions

Zolpidem , Amantadine , Amiodarone , Erythromycin , Itraconazole , Betahistine , Tranylcypromine , isocarboxazid , Topiramate , Rifampin , Cimetidine , Magnesium sulfate , Nitroglycerin , Clarithromycin , Rifabutin , Delavirdine , Methyclothiazide , Cannabidiol

Alerts

Use with caution in patients with hepatic and renal impairment and also in elderly patients.
Effects of ethanol and other sedative drugs may be potentiated when used concurrently.

Points of recommendation

May cause CNS depression, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving).
May be administered without regard to meals.

Pregnancy level

B

Related drugs

Fexofenadine , Cetirizine , Clemastine , astemizole , Azatadine , pyrilamine (Mepyramine) , Phenindamine , Triprolidine , Tripelennamine , Trimeprazine , Terfenadine