Description and Composition of Claritin
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Claritin is a 2nd generation antihistamine drug used to relieve the symptoms of allergies of different origin. It contains as its active pharmaceutical ingredient, Loratadine. It also contains inactive ingredients called excipients in sufficient quantities. Claritin is a potent, rapidly effective and long-acting non-sedative, histamine H, receptor antagonist, with anti-allergic properties. It comes in different dosage forms which includes tablets, capsules, Syrup etc.
Indications or uses of Claritin
Claritin is indicated for:
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Perennial allergic rhinitis
- Sneezing, rhinorrhoea & itching
- Ocular itching and burning
- Chronic urticaria and other allergic dermatologic disorders,
Dosage and Administration of Claritin
Adults and children above 12 years of age:
10 mg (1 Loratadine tablet) once-a-day.
Children:
6 – 12 years : 10 mg (1 Loratadine tablet) once-a-day.
2-5 years: 5 mg (1/2 Loratadine tablet or 5 ml of 5 mg/ 5ml Loratadine syrup) once-a-day
Safety and efficacy of Loratadine in children below 2 years of age have not yet been established.
Contraindications of Claritin
It is contraindicated in patients who have hypersensitivity or idiosyncrasy to its component
Use of Claritin in Special Populations
Neonates: The drug is not normally used in neonates.
Children: The safety and efficacy of Loratadine in children below 2 years of age have not yet been established
Claritin Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
It should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to fetus or infant.
Drug Interactions with Claritin
There are no reports of potentially hazardous interactions with other drugs. Psychomotor performance studies show that unlike other H, receptor antagonists, Loratadine does not potentiate the effect of alcohol when administered concomitantly with it.
Side Effects of Claritin
- Rash,
- hives,
- itching,
- swelling in some areas (like: eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, arms, feet, ankles or lower legs),
- hoarseness,
- difficulty in breathing or swallowing, wheezing.
Precautions to take while taking Claritin
Precaution is needed in patients with kidney or liver diseases, people with certain allergies and women who are pregnant or breast feeding.
Pharmaceutical Precautions
Keep in a dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light.
References
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