Claritin is an over-the-counter medication used for treating allergy symptoms. It comes in liquid, tablet or rapidly disintegrating tablets. According to RXList, children 2 to 5 should take 5mg Claritin syrup, one spoonful daily. RXList also recommends that children 6 and older take 10mg by one tablet or 2 tsp. Claritin starts to work within two hours of taking it.
Relieves Sneezing and Runny Nose
According to Drugs.com, the main purpose of Claritin is to act as an antihistamine. Claritin helps relieve sneezing and runny noses caused by seasonal allergies. Claritin is a histamine receptor that works by blocking the action of histamines, which are chemicals in the body that trigger an inflammatory response when an allergic reaction occurs. Histamines cause the sneezing and runny nose that your child experiences during allergy season.
Palpitations
According to RXList.com, if your child takes an overdose of Claritin it can cause heart problems, such as palpitations. RXList reports that the palpitations occurred in children who overdosed on a dose greater than 10mg of the Claritin syrup. Heart palpitations can become life-threatening in children. Your physician should evaluate your child immediately. According to RXList.com, treatment for an overdose of Claritin involves taking ipecac syrup to induce vomiting.
Rash and Hives
According to Drugs.com, Claritin can cause rashes in some children. The rashes may begin as a red, bumpy rash on any part of the body. They can be itchy for your child. Hives can also be a side effect of an adverse reaction to Claritin. Hives are small, red, itchy bumps that develop on the skin. If these side effects occur while your child takes Claritin, seek medical advice.
