Question 1

how does claritin (loratadine) help my allergies?

Accepted Answer

Blocking histamine: Claritin (loratadine) is one of a group of drugs called antihistamines. These block the natural chemical histamine from binding to its receptors which then trigger your body into having an allergic reaction.  So, basically, you have histamine in your system which increases when you are exposed to something you are allergic to.  Claritin (loratadine) and others block that histamine from hurting you.

Question 2

could loratadine treat indoor allergies, or only outdoor allergies?

Accepted Answer

Both: Loratadine (brand name claritin) is fda approved for seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and hives.  However, it is also effective for treating allergies caused by indoor allergens such as animal dander and dust.

Question 3

why did i get loratadine allergy?

Accepted Answer

Exposure: All allergies are developed by an immune system reaction to the substance in question.  Therefore, allergy requires previous exposure.  If you are prone to allergy problems, you can develop an allergy to a particular substance at anytime after you become exposed to it.  It sometimes take only a few exposures and other times it takes many exposures.

Question 4

i have loratadine allergy. what do i do?

Accepted Answer

Confirm, alternative: Allergy to antihistaminics is very rare. Fortunately other antihistaminics are availble to help control allergic symptoms. Confirmation is recommended since inactive ingredients of medications (such as corn starch or lactose) might also cause symptoms similar to allergic reaction.

Question 5

bad cedar allergies, tried claritin (loratadine)?

Accepted Answer

Cedar: Cedar is  a late fall, winter and early spring problem in many states. If meds are ineffective orally, i would try a mix of intranasal anithistamines and steroids. Oral or injectables should be saved for emergencies. Remember allergy is genetic and only immunotherapy can rebuild your system. I found that allergy shots help my patients.

Question 6

does claritin (loratadine) work for cat allergies?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Claritin (loratadine) is an antihistamine and is helpful for symptoms of rhinitis caused by an allergen. So if one is allergic to cats Claritin (loratadine) may be helpful depending upon the symptoms one has.

Question 7

how often should i take claritin (loratadine) for my allergies?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Claritin (loratadine) 10 mg is dosed once a day.  To get the best results, it should be taken before the allergy season begins and before a known allergen exposure (such as going to a home with a cat if you are cat allergic).  Claritin also comes in a combination with a decongestant (pseudoephedrine), called Claritin d24 (taken once a day) and Claritin d12 (taken twice a day about 12 hours apart).

Question 8

does claritin (loratadine) work even if you don't have allergies?

Accepted Answer

Occasionally: It really depends on the nature and severity of your symptoms. Some people feel better after using Claritin for non-allergic issues, largely because antihistamines like Claritin can dry out the nasal passage. This can reduce a runny nose or mild nasal congestion, even if they're non-allergic in nature. Claritin is fairly weak, however, and other non-drowsy options like Allegra can be more helpful.

Question 9

is it safe to take loratadine long term, everyday, for allergies?

Accepted Answer

Prob ok: Antihistamines have been around for decades, and certainly many more potent than loratadine. They say worldwide the most common drug taken is diphenhydramine, mostly for the sedative properties (as a sleep aid). Antihistamines can affect certain types of glaucoma, and accentuate urine retention in those with prostate issues and dry mucous membranes, but usually not so much with loratadine per say.

Question 10

is it safe to take 2 loratadine 10mg tablets per day for allergies?

Accepted Answer

Why do you ask?: The advantage of loratadine (and similar antihistamines) is that in recommended doses it doesn't cross the blood-brain barrier and thus are unlikely to cause central nervous system side effects; e.g. usually they don't make you drowsy. This is NOT necessarily true at higher doses, particularly in seniors. Why do you need more? Loratadine is weak. Might try an alternative.

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Doctor answers about:

How does Claritin help my allergies

A member asked:

How does claritin (loratadine) help my allergies?

A member asked:

Could loratadine treat indoor allergies, or only outdoor allergies?

A member asked:

Why did i get loratadine allergy?

A member asked:

I have loratadine allergy. what do i do?

A member asked:

Bad cedar allergies, tried claritin (loratadine)?

A member asked:

Does claritin (loratadine) work for cat allergies?

A member asked:

How often should i take claritin (loratadine) for my allergies?

A member asked:

Does claritin (loratadine) work even if you don't have allergies?

A member asked:

Is it safe to take loratadine long term, everyday, for allergies?

A member asked:

Is it safe to take 2 loratadine 10mg tablets per day for allergies?

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