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Loratadine
📖 About Loratadine
- Always check the BNF entry for up-to-date prescribing advice.
- Non-sedating antihistamine (second-generation H1-receptor antagonist).
- Commonly used for hay fever, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, urticaria, and other allergic conditions.
⚙️ Mode of Action
- Blocks peripheral histamine H1-receptors → reduces sneezing, rhinorrhoea, itching, and conjunctival irritation.
- Minimal penetration into CNS → less sedation compared with first-generation antihistamines (e.g. chlorphenamine).
💊 Dose
| Indication | Typical Adult Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergic symptoms (rhinitis, urticaria, hay fever) | 10 mg | OD | Oral (PO) |
| Children 2–12 yrs (>30 kg) | 10 mg | OD | PO |
| Children 2–12 yrs (<30 kg) | 5 mg | OD | PO (syrup) |
Always confirm paediatric dosing in BNF for Children (BNFc).
🔀 Interactions
- See BNF.
- Metabolised by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 → caution with potent inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, macrolides).
⚠️ Cautions
- Hepatic impairment (reduced metabolism).
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: use if benefit outweighs risk (BNF guidance).
🚫 Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to loratadine or excipients.
💥 Side Effects
- Generally well tolerated.
- Occasional: headache, fatigue, dry mouth, drowsiness (rare compared with sedating antihistamines).
- Rare: tachycardia, palpitations, liver enzyme elevations.
📚 References
- BNF – Loratadine
- BNF for Children (BNFc) – paediatric dosing
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