How to Take Claritin: Side Effects, Dosage
How to take Claritin as directed: proper dosage, side effects, and precautions for managing allergies.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
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Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Claritin
How to Take Claritin
The following steps reflect standard OTC label instructions for Claritin (loratadine):
- Per OTC labeling, adults and children 6 years and older: Take 10 mg once daily. This may be a tablet, chewable, or 10 mL of the 5 mg/5 mL liquid.
- Per OTC labeling, children 2 to 5 years: Give 5 mg once daily, usually as 5 mL of the 5 mg/5 mL liquid or a 5 mg chewable tablet.
- Per OTC labeling, children under 2 years: Check with a clinician before giving Claritin.
- Swallowing tablets: Take with water; do not crush standard tablets.
- Chewable tablets: Have your child chew thoroughly before swallowing.
- Liquid form: Use a proper measuring device for the exact dose.
- Per OTC labeling, best time of day: Once daily at the same time; morning is common, but choose the time that fits your routine.
- Per OTC labeling, with or without food: Either is fine — food does not affect absorption.
- Per OTC labeling, if you miss a dose: Take it when you remember, but skip it if it is close to the next dose. Do not double up.
Warnings Before Taking Claritin
- Per OTC labeling, check with your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, or take other allergy medicines.
- Per OTC labeling, tell your clinician about any serious medical conditions, including heart rhythm issues.
- Per OTC labeling, avoid combining with alcohol if it causes drowsiness.
- Per OTC labeling, confirm with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Claritin Side Effects
Common
mild
Headache
Per OTC labeling, headache is a commonly reported reaction to loratadine.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Uncommon
mild
Drowsiness
Per OTC labeling, most people stay alert on Claritin, but a few may feel slightly sleepy. Use caution with activities that require focus.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–4 hours
Uncommon
mild
Dry Mouth
Per OTC labeling, Claritin can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Sipping water may help.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Uncommon
mild
Fatigue
Per OTC labeling, some people notice tiredness while taking loratadine.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Uncommon
mild
Nausea
Per OTC labeling, a mild upset stomach may occur with loratadine use.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30 minutes–2 hours
Rare
mild
Nervousness
Per OTC labeling, occasionally Claritin may cause a feeling of nervousness. It is typically brief and not severe.
Per OTC Drug Facts labeling. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop use and consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30 minutes–1 hour
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Claritin
If You Forgot to Take Claritin
Per OTC labeling, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next one. In that case, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
Per OTC labeling, Claritin is dosed once every 24 hours, so taking doses too close together can increase the chance of side effects. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose. If you are unsure, wait until your next usual time and restart from there.
What If You Took Too Much Claritin
What If You Took Too Much Claritin?
If more than the labeled amount was used, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. For children or if a large amount was ingested, seek urgent medical care immediately.
- Do not use additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, severe drowsiness, or seizures occur, seek emergency medical care.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Claritin Cost
How Much Does Claritin Cost with Insurance?
With many U.S. insurance plans, Claritin (loratadine) may be covered as an over‑the‑counter allergy medication. Coverage varies by plan; check with your insurer or pharmacy for your specific cost.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
How Much Does Claritin Cost without Insurance
Cost of Claritin Without Insurance
Without insurance, the cost of Claritin can vary depending on whether you choose the brand name or generic loratadine. Generic loratadine is typically less expensive than brand-name Claritin. Warehouse stores, large retailers, and online pharmacies may offer lower prices, especially for generics.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
