Loratadine
Loratadine relieves allergic rhinitis and urticaria symptoms such as sneezing, itch, and watery eyes. It is available OTC and on prescription depending on formulation.
This medicine is part of the Blood pressure, cholesterol & related category.
Generic name: loratadine
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Loratadine relieves allergic rhinitis and urticaria symptoms such as sneezing, itch, and watery eyes.
How long does it take to work?
Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review.
What are common side effects?
Headache, fatigue, or dry mouth occasionally.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Loratadine with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
More about what Loratadine is used for
Loratadine relieves allergic rhinitis and urticaria symptoms such as sneezing, itch, and watery eyes.
It is available OTC and on prescription depending on formulation.
How does Loratadine work, and how long does it take to work?
It blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors with low sedating potential for most adults.
Desloratadine is an active metabolite used separately as another medicine.
How and when should you take Loratadine?
Usually once daily. Swallow tablets with water; syrups use supplied measuring devices.
What are the common side effects of Loratadine?
Headache, fatigue, or dry mouth occasionally.
Serious side effects of Loratadine — when to get urgent help
Severe allergic reactions to the tablet ingredients are rare but need emergency care.
What if you miss a dose of Loratadine?
Take when remembered; skip if nearly next dose.
Who should not take Loratadine?
Severe liver impairment may need dose adjustment or alternatives.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Loratadine? — other interactions
Few major interactions; sedatives still add sleepiness.
Loratadine in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Discuss with your prescriber or pharmacist before regular use.
Blood tests and monitoring on Loratadine
Review if symptoms do not improve after appropriate trial.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Loratadine?
Cetirizine, Fexofenadine, or nasal steroids may be options.
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Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists for accuracy and clarity. Content is informational only.
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Frequently asked questions about Loratadine
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Loratadine used for?
- Loratadine relieves allergic rhinitis and urticaria symptoms such as sneezing, itch, and watery eyes. It is available OTC and on prescription depending on formulation.
- How long does Loratadine take to work?
- Onset varies by condition and dose. Your GP or pharmacist can explain what to expect and when to review. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Loratadine with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Ask your GP or pharmacist before taking Loratadine with Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Many adults use paracetamol for short periods when appropriate; NSAIDs such as ibuprofen need extra checks with your other medicines and health conditions.
- What are the side effects of Loratadine?
- Headache, fatigue, or dry mouth occasionally. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Loratadine vs cetirizine — which is better?
- Both are widely used; some people tolerate one better than the other — a short trial may show which suits you.
- Can loratadine help eczema itch?
- It may help histamine-driven itch somewhat; eczema care usually also needs emollients and sometimes steroids — ask your GP.
Need personalised advice?
Your local pharmacist or GP surgery can help with questions about your medicines, side effects, and alternatives that may be suitable for you.
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Often used with
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