Loratadine is an over-the-counter medication used to alleviate allergy symptoms associated with hay fever and seasonal allergies. Known commonly by the brand name Claritin, this medication is part of a class of drugs called antihistamines and acts by preventing histamine--an allergy-inducing substance--from working in the body. Before using this antihistamine, patients should be aware of potential loratadine side effects.
No Side Effects
Patients taking loratadine typically do not experience side effects during treatment. In clinical trials for this medication, the incidence of adverse events associated with loratadine use was similar to those experienced by patients taking placebo, a sugar pill, reports RxList, an online drug index. If side effects occur, they most frequently affect pediatric patients between the ages of 2 and 5.
Dry Mouth, Nose or Eyes
Treatment with loratadine can cause side effects of dry mouth, nose or eyes in certain patients, warns MedlinePlus, a medical information website supported by the National Institutes of Health. Dry mouth side effects can cause sore throat and increased thirst in affected patients. Certain patients may also experience cough or vocal hoarseness, explains PDRHealth. During treatment with loratadine, certain patients may experience nosebleed side effects due to excessive nasal dryness. Dry eye side effects can cause redness, itching or tearing of the affected eye. These side effects of loratadine may persist for the duration of treatment, but resolve once treatment ends.
Stomach Upset
After taking a dose of loratadine, some patients can develop stomach upset side effects, explains MedlinePlus. Stomach pain or diarrhea can be uncomfortable and may contribute to abdominal cramping or bloating. To limit the occurrence of these stomach upset side effects, patients should avoid taking loratadine on an empty stomach.
Headache
During treatment with loratadine, patients can experience recurrent headache pain as a side effect, reports PDRHealth. Headache pain is typically mild and can be controlled through the use of an over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen. Side effects of headache are temporary and may progressively subside with continued use of loratadine.
Sleeping Difficulties
Sleeping difficulties can arise as a side effect of loratadine treatment in certain patients. Affected patients can have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep through the night due to sensations of nervousness, explains MedlinePlus. Alternatively, certain patients may feel unusually weak or drowsy following treatment with loratadine.
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