Claritin is a popular over-the-counter (OTC)antihistamineused to treatseasonal allergies.
How Does Claritin Work?
Claritin is a second-generation antihistamine that contains the active ingredientloratadine.
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This means that Claritin can be taken during the daytime with less risk of drowsiness.
Its effects are relatively long-lasting, with adrug half-lifeof around eight hours.
Some people are affected more than others, although many experience no notable symptoms.
This side effect is generally mild and tends to wane as your body becomes accustomed to the medication.
You may be able to reduce the risk by taking Claritin with a large glass of water.
Gastrointestinal Distress
It is possible to experience upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea on Claritin.
Dry Mouth
All antihistamines are associated withxerostomia, or dry mouth.
This is because antihistamines block a protein called amuscarinicreceptor that, among other things, regulates salivation.
This tends to affect people with smaller body sizes or who take more than the recommended doses.
Dizziness can also occur.
Even so, this is a relatively uncommon side effect, affecting only around 1% of users.
you’re able to reduce the risk of daytime drowsiness by taking the dose nearer to bedtime.
In most cases, the side effect will ease over time.
During the adjustment period, avoid driving or using heavy machinery.
If the side effect is severe or long-lasting, ask your healthcare provider about alternative treatments.
Clarinex, for instance, has a drug half-life of around 27 hours compared to eight hours for Claritin.
This is not meant to suggest that Claritin is less effective than its counterparts.
Clarinex has the highest risk of side effects overall.
How to Take Claritin
Claritin is an oral drug taken by mouth.
It is available as a tablet, syrup, chewable, and quick-dissolving pill.
Claritin is approved for use in adults and children 2 years and older.
It is taken once every 24 hours with or without food.
Claritin is considered safe to use every day and is often prescribed daily for people with severe seasonal allergies.
If you have liver disease, speak with your healthcare provider before using Claritin or any other antihistamine.
In some cases, a drug substitution may be needed.
Other drugs may also interact with Claritin.
Do not take Claritin with alcohol as this can increase the risk of drowsiness and dizziness.
Summary
Claritin is an over-the-counter antihistamine that can ease common symptoms related to seasonal allergies and hives.
It does not cause drowsiness for most people but can in some.
Claritin (loratadine) is a good choice for many, given its non-drowsy nature and once-daily dosing.
As always, it’s important to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting a new medication.
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