loratadine/pseudoephedrine (Claritin-D) Side Effects & Dosage (original) (raw)
- What is loratadine/pseudoephedrine? How does it work (mechanism of action)?
- What is loratadine/pseudoephedrine used for?
- What are the side effects of the combination of loratadine and pseudoephedrine?
- What is the dosage for the combination of loratadine and pseudoephedrine?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with the combination of loratadine and pseudoephedrine?
- Is loratadine and pseudoephedrine safe to take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding?
- What else should you know about loratadine and pseudoephedrine?
What is loratadine/pseudoephedrine? How does it work (mechanism of action)?
- Loratadine/pseudoephedrine is a combination of two drugs, an antihistamine (loratadine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine). Loratadine is a long-acting antihistamine that blocks the actions of histamine that causes some of the symptoms of allergic reactions. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine on their surfaces. Histamine stimulates the cells to release chemicals that produce effects that are associated with allergy symptoms. Loratadine blocks one type of histamine receptor (the H1 receptor) and thus prevents activation of cells with H1 receptors by histamine. Unlike some antihistamines, loratadine does not enter the brain from the blood and, therefore, does not cause drowsiness when taken at recommended doses. It is one of a few antihistamines that do not cause sedation. Pseudoephedrine decongests tissues by causing blood vessels to constrict.
- Alavert Allergy & Sinus, Claritin-D, Claritin-D 24 hour, and many others are brand names for loratadine and pseudoephedrine.
- The combination of loratadine and pseudoephedrine is available in generic form and is available over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription.
What is loratadine/pseudoephedrine used for?
Loratadine/pseudoephedrine is a combination of two drugs, an antihistamine (loratadine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine).
What are the side effects of the combination of loratadine and pseudoephedrine?
Side effects of loratadine/pseudoephedrine include:
- stimulation of the nervous system leading to nervousness,
- restlessness,
- excitability,
- dizziness,
- headache,
- fear,
- anxiety,
- tremor,
- hallucinations, and
- convulsions (seizures).
What is the dosage for the combination of loratadine and pseudoephedrine?
- Loratadine/pseudoephedrine may be taken with or without food.
- It must be used cautiously in patients with heart (coronary artery) disease and angina (because pseudoephedrine can stimulate the heart) as well as in patients with diabetes (because there is a small chance that pseudoephedrine can raise the level of blood sugar).
- The dose for children older than 12 years and adults is 1 tablet every 12 hours of immediate release tablets or 1 tablet every 24 hours for extended release tablets.
SLIDESHOW Common Allergies: Symptoms and Signs See Slideshow
Health News
Is loratadine and pseudoephedrine safe to take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding?
Pseudoephedrine is secreted in breast milk. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers pseudoephedrine to be compatible with nursing.
What else should you know about loratadine and pseudoephedrine?
What preparations of loratadine and pseudoephedrine are available?
Tablets containing 5 mg loratadine and 120 mg pseudoephedrine (12 hour formulation) and tablets containing 10 mg loratadine and 240 mg pseudoephedrine (24 hour formulation) are available.
How should I keep loratadine and pseudoephedrine stored?
Tablets should be stored at 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).
Summary
Loratadine and pseudoephedrine (Alavert Allergy & Sinus, Claritin-D, Claritin-D 24 hour, and many others) is a combination of two drugs used to temporarily relieve a runny nose, sneezing, and nasal stuffiness from a common cold. It also is used to relieve nasal and non-nasal symptoms of a variety of allergic conditions like seasonal allergic rhinitis. Side effects, drug interactions, dosing and storage, and pregnancy safety should be reviewed prior to taking this medication.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
-
Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) Symptoms & Treatment Sinus infection (sinusitis) symptoms can include headaches, a sore throat, and toothaches. Antibiotics and home remedies can... -
Cold Sores Causes, Remedies, & Diagnosis How do you get rid of cold sores? First learn about the herpes virus and how it causes cold sores. When are cold sores... -
Cold, Fever and Flu Symptoms in Children: Medications and Home Remedies How long does a cold last? How long is a cold contagious? Colds and fevers are some of the most common ailments in children.... -
How to Get Rid of a Cold: Natural Remedies What home remedies work to get rid of a cold fast? Many claim cold symptoms and flu symptoms can be relieved with Echinacea,... -
Common Allergies: Symptoms and Signs What are allergies? Pollen, food, perfumes, and many more things can provoke allergy symptoms. Allergies are an overreaction of... -
The Most Common Food Allergies for Kids and Adults What common food allergens cause the most problems for adults and children? See this list of common food allergies and learn to... -
What's Bronchitis? Symptoms and Treatments Is bronchitis contagious? Learn about bronchitis, an inflammation of the lining of the lungs. Explore bronchitis symptoms,... -
Bronchitis Quiz What happens within the body when a person develops bronchitis? Take this quick quiz to learn the causes, symptoms, treatments,... -
Common Cold Quiz: Test Your Medical IQ Take this quiz to learn the truth behind the infectious, contagious, uncomfortable disease known as the common cold. Test your... -
Cold & Flu Quiz: Influenza vs. Common Cold Aches? Pain? Fever? This Cold & Flu Quiz tests your knowledge on the difference between coming down with the common cold and... -
10 Signs Your Allergies Are Out of Control Learn 10 signs your allergies are out of control. See these surprising allergy symptoms and find out how to get relief for... -
10 Worst Cities for Spring Allergies See pictures of the top 10 "spring allergy capitals", according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). From... -
Picture of Bronchitis Acute bronchitis usually comes on quickly and gets better after several weeks. See a picture of Acute Bronchitis and learn more... -
Picture of Bronchioles A tiny tube in the air conduit system within the lungs that is a continuation of the bronchi and connects to the alveoli (the air... -
Picture of Sinuses The sinuses are an air-filled cavity in a dense portion of a skull bone. See a picture of the Sinuses and learn more about the... -
How to Prevent the Common Cold What home remedies work for the common cold? The common cold is arguably the most common human illness. Learn how long the common... -
Nasal Irrigation: Natural Relief for Cold & Allergy Symptoms Clogged sinuses and congestion bothering you? Nasal irrigation can relieve sinus symptoms associated with colds and allergies.... -
Nasal Allergy Attack: Causes, Triggers, Treatments Nasal allergies are a common problem that affects millions of people. An allergist can recommend the best allergy nasal sprays... -
Pictures of Allergy Relief Tips at Home: AC Filters, Electronic Air Cleaners, and More Learn how a combination of medication, preventing allergens, and allergy relief products can reduce allergy symptoms and help you... -
Home Allergy Quiz: Is Your Home Allergy-Proof? Take this home allergy quiz and test your knowledge on allergens, dust mites, pollens and more to see how allergy-proof your home...
Related Disease Conditions
-
How Long Does an Allergic Reaction Last? Allergic reactions may last for varying lengths of time. They may take a few hours to a few days to disappear. If the exposure to the allergen continues, such as during a spring pollen season, allergic reactions may last for longer periods such as a few weeks to months. -
Cough: 19 Tips on How to Stop a Cough Coughing is a reflex that helps a person clear their airways of irritants. There are many causes of an excessive or severe cough including irritants like cigarette and secondhand smoke, pollution, air fresheners, medications like beta blockers and ACE inhibitors, the common cold, GERD, lung cancer, and heart disease.Natural and home remedies to help cure and soothe a cough include staying hydrated, gargle salt water, use cough drops or lozenges, use herbs and supplements like ginger, mint, licorice, and slippery elm, and don't smoke. Over-the-counter products (OTC)to cure and soothe a cough include cough suppressants and expectorants, and anti-reflux drugs. Prescription drugs that help cure a cough include narcotic medications, antibiotics, inhaled steroids, and anti-reflux drugs like proton pump inhibitors or PPIs, for example, omeprazole (Prilosec), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and pantoprazole (Protonix). -
Sinusitis Sinus infection (sinusitis) is caused by allergies, infection, and chemicals or other irritants of sinuses. Signs and symptoms include headache, fever, and facial tenderness, pressure, or pain. Treatments of sinus infections are generally with antibiotics and at times, home remedies. -
Sore Throat Sore throat (throat pain) usually is described as pain or discomfort in the throat area. A sore throat may be caused by bacterial infections, viral infections, toxins, irritants, trauma, or injury to the throat area. Common symptoms of a sore throat include a fever, cough, runny nose, hoarseness, earaches, sneezing, and body aches. Home remedies for a sore throat include warm soothing liquids and throat lozenges. OTC remedies for a sore throat include OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Antibiotics may be necessary for some cases of sore throat. -
Hives Hives, also called urticaria, is a raised, itchy area of skin. Most often the cause of hives is unknown. Sometimes it is a sign of an allergic reaction to food or medications, but the cause of the allergy (the allergen) is unknown. Dermatographism and swelling (angioedema) may accompany hives. Treatment to get rid of hives and alleviate symptoms typically includes antihistamines. -
Allergy An allergy refers to a misguided reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. When these allergens come in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to it. It is estimated that 50 million North Americans are affected by allergic conditions. The parts of the body that are prone to react to allergies include the eyes, nose, lungs, skin, and stomach. Common allergic disorders include hay fever, asthma, allergic eyes, allergic eczema, hives, and allergic shock. -
Common Cold The common cold (viral upper respiratory tract infection) is a contagious illness that may be caused by various viruses. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, headache, cough, sore throat, and sometimes a fever. -
Pinkeye Pinkeye, also called conjunctivitis, is redness or irritation of the conjunctivae, the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids, and the membranes covering the whites of the eyes. These membranes react to a wide range of bacteria, viruses, allergy-provoking agents, irritants, and toxic agents. -
Mucus Mucus is a standard substance produced by lining tissues in the body. Excess mucus or yellow, green, brown, or bloody mucus may indicate a problem. Mucus production may increase when allergies, a cold, flu, cough, or sore throat occur. Antihistamines and cold and flu medications may help alleviate excess mucus. A neti pot may be used to decrease nasal congestion and clear mucus. -
Acute Bronchitis Bronchitis is inflammation of the airways in the lung. Acute bronchitis is short (10-20 days) in comparison with chronic bronchitis, which lasts for months to years. Causes of acute bronchitis include viruses and bacteria, which means it can be contagious. Acute bronchitis caused by environmental factors such as pollution or cigarette smoke is not contagious. Common symptoms of acute bronchitis include nasal congestion, cough, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. Acute bronchitis in children also may include runny nose, fever, and chest pain. Treatment for acute bronchitis includes OTC pain relievers, cough suppressants (although not recommended in children), and rest. Infrequently antibiotics may be prescribed to treat acute bronchitis. -
Hay Fever Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms. -
Why Won’t My Allergy Symptoms Go Away? Allergies happen when your body's immune system reacts to certain substances as though they are harmful. Allergy symptoms may not go away unless you avoid your triggers, stick to your medications, find the right combination of medications, and consider surgery. -
Can Hot Weather Cause Sinus Problems? Sinusitis is a condition where you experience irritation and swelling of your sinuses. Allergies and sinus problems are common during the warmer seasons. -
Sinus Headache Sinus headache is caused by a sinus infection or inflammation of the sinus cavities. Symptoms of a sinus headache include pain, runny or stuffy nose, and chronic cough. There are many causes of sinus headaches including sinusitis or sinus infection, allergies, smoke, infections, or colds. Treatment for sinus headaches depends on the cause. Some home remedies may relieve sinus headache pain symptoms. -
Sinus Infection vs. Allergies Both sinus infections and allergies (allergic rhinitis) cause symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose and fatigue. Sinus infection (known as sinusitis) is inflammation of the sinuses, caused by infection from bacteria, viruses, and/or fungi (molds). Allergic rhinitis occurs when certain allergies cause nasal symptoms. When a person with allergies breathes in an allergen, such as pollen, dust, or animal dander, symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, itching, sneezing, and fatigue occur. -
What Is the Best Treatment for a Jellyfish Sting? Jellyfish are the most common creatures found in seawater around the world. Jellyfish tentacles have stinging cells called nematocysts that secrete a poisonous substance (venom). The best treatment for jellyfish stings includes rinsing the area with water or vinegar, removing the tentacles, soaking the affected area in hot water, taking medications to ease itching and pain and seeking medical attention, if necessary. -
What Are the Symptoms of Ragweed Allergy? The common symptoms of ragweed allergy are sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watery red eyes, headache, nasal congestion, eye swelling, rashes and coughing.
Treatment & Diagnosis
Medications & Supplements
- Drugs: Questions to Ask Your Doctor or Pharmacist about Your Drugs
- Drug Interactions
- Antihistamines (Oral)
- loratadine
- ibuprofen/pseudoephedrine
- Side Effects of Claritin D (loratadine/pseudoephedrine)
- cetirizine (Zyrtec, Zyrtec Allergy, Zyrtec Hives)
- Side Effects of Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
- Side Effects of Claritin (loratadine)
- fluticasone
- azelastine (Astelin, Astepro)
- loratadine, Claritin, Claritin RediTabs, Alavert, Claritin Hives Relief, Children's Claritin
- Xyzal (levocetirizine dihydrochloride)
- fexofenadine (Allegra, Mucinex Allergy)
- Dymista (azelastine hydrochloride and fluticasone propionate)
- fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine (Allegra-D)
- hypotonic saline intranasal
- Beconase AQ (beclomethasone) Side Effects, Warnings, and Drug Interactions
- brompheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylephrine
- modified ragweed tyrosine adsorbate
Subscribe to MedicineNet's Allergy and Asthma Newsletter
By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
References
Medically reviewed by Eni Williams, PharmD, PhD.
FDA Prescribing Information.