Also indexed as: Claritin
Loratadine is a selective antihistamine used to relieve allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergy) symptoms,
including sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. It is also used to treat people with
idiopathic urticaria. Loratadine is available alone and in a combination product.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
None known
|
| Adverse interaction |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Food slows the absorption of loratadine and also increases the total amount of the drug
absorbed.1 It is recommended that loratadine be taken on an empty
stomach.2
Alcohol
Selective antihistamines, including loratadine, may cause drowsiness or dizziness, although it
is less likely than with nonselective antihistamines.3 Alcohol can intensify
drowsiness and dizziness, increasing the risk of accidental injury. People taking loratadine
should use alcohol only with caution.
References:1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and
Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 194b.
2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and
Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 194b.
3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and
Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 194b.