Claritin and Skin Rash

Claritin (also known as loratadine) is one of the most well known anti-histaminergic drugs. It is widely used in the treatment of allergies. The drug has been around for more than 2 decades and has been a welcome relief for all the allergy sufferers. Compared to previous generation of anti histaminergic drugs. Claritin is non sedating.

The antihistaminergic properties of Claritin help in the treatment of allergies and can relieve the following symptoms:

- Sneezing

- Itching

- Watery eyes

- Runny nose

There are formulations of Claritin which contain small amounts of pseudo-ephedrine. The pseudo-ephedrine acts like a decongestant and helps open up the nose and relieves the stuffy nose. Pseudo-ephedrine also provides an energy boost.

Claritin is widely used to treat:

- relief of hay fever

- allergic rhinitis

- hives

- contact dermatitis

- annular dermatitis

- atopic dermatitis

Side effects

Claritin has some side effects which are rare but do occur. These side effects include:

- fast heart rate

- pounding heart sensation

- confusion

- hallucinations

- bizarre thoughts

- dizziness

- increased blood pressure

- chest pain

- general malaise

- blurred vision

- stomach upset, bloating

- insomnia



Availability

Loratadine is available as tablets, oral suspension and syrup, and also in combination with pseudo-ephedrine.

Claritin is effective for allergic symptoms of both the nose and eyes

The daily dose of Claritin is 10 mg daily. Children under the age of 5 should take 5 mg daily

One should not use Claritin D when:

One is taking antidepressants which are classified as MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)

Someone is drinking alcohol

One is pregnant

Breast feeding

Taking sleeping pills, muscle relaxants or antidepressants

Cautions and contraindications

Individuals who have liver or kidney damage should be cautious when taking Claritin. In such cases, half the dose is recommended.