Description
Overview of Loratadine and Desloratadine
Loratadine and Desloratadine are antihistamines that block H1 histamine receptors, reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and hives. Loratadine is metabolized in the liver to Desloratadine, which is responsible for most of its antihistaminic effects. Desloratadine has a longer half-life, providing extended relief.
Medical Uses
Loratadine:
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Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
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Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives)
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Allergic conjunctivitis
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Skin allergies and reactions to insect bites
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Desloratadine:
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Perennial allergic rhinitis
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Chronic idiopathic urticaria
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Off-label use in acne management as an adjunct to isotretinoin therapy
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Dosage and Administration
Loratadine:
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Adults and children ≥6 years: 10 mg once daily
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Children 2–5 years: 5 mg once daily
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Desloratadine:
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Adults and children ≥12 years: 5 mg once daily
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Children 6–11 years: 2.5 mg once daily
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Children 1–5 years: 1.25 mg once daily
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Infants 6–11 months: 1 mg once daily
Pharmacokinetics
Loratadine:
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Bioavailability: ~100%
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Half-life: ~8 hours; active metabolite (Desloratadine) ~27 hours
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Excretion: Urine and feces
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Desloratadine:
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Bioavailability: Rapid absorption
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Half-life: ~27 hours; extended in poor metabolizers
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Excretion: Urine and feces
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Side Effects
Common:
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Headache
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Dry mouth
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Fatigue
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Rare:
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Dizziness
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Nausea
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Allergic reactions
Drug Interactions
Both medications may interact with:
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Ketoconazole
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Erythromycin
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Cimetidine
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These interactions can increase plasma concentrations but are generally not clinically significant.
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Brand Names by Region
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Loratadine:
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US: Claritin
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Canada: Claritin
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EU: Clarityn
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UK: Clarityn
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Australia: Claratyne
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Desloratadine:
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US: Clarinex
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Canada: Aerius
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EU: Aerius
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UK: Neoclarityn
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Australia: Aerius
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Availability
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Loratadine: Available OTC in most countries
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Desloratadine: Prescription-only in some regions; OTC in others
FAQs
Q: Can you buy loratadine over the counter?
A: Yes, loratadine is available OTC in many countries.
Q: Where can I buy loratadine tablets?
A: Loratadine tablets can be purchased at pharmacies, supermarkets, and online retailers.
Q: Can you buy desloratadine over the counter?
A: Desloratadine is available OTC in some countries; in others, it requires a prescription.
Q: What is loratadine 10 mg used for?
A: Loratadine 10 mg is used to treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and hives.
Q: What are desloratadine uses?
A: Desloratadine is used to treat perennial allergic rhinitis and chronic hives.
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