Loratadine Compared to Alternatives

For Allergic Rhinitis: I found this helpful in relieving the excess production of mucous and the resultant post-nasal drip which caused an irritating and continuous need to cough up phlegm. However I have not been using it for very long (3 weeks at 1 tablet per day taken in the morning) and twice have experienced light-headedness requiring me to hang onto something and to sit or lie down before I fall down. I normally have fairly low blood pressure but not sufficient to feel I am about to faint.

For Allergic Rhinitis: Phenomenal medication for allergies especially this year and the past few years have gotten worse and worse. This is the only relieving medication I've found and is available over the counter. Also if you take other medications this seems to be much better and more compatible without interactions and is non-drowsy. Claritin (Loratadine) wins in my book.

For Allergic Rhinitis: I thought Zyrtec (cetirizine) was great at first because it worked so well on my allergies. I have gained 15 pounds over 1-1/2 years. I didn't think it was related to Zyrtec, but recently figured out that it is. I am an extremely healthy eater (no processed foods or white flours/sugars), a runner and triathlete without weight issues before Zyrtec. I attributed the weight gain to age, hormones and finally my thyroid. Blood tests ruled out the hormone and thyroid issues. I only take HRT & Zyrtec. I stopped Zyrtec 3 days ago and have lost 2 pounds without any changes in diet. I am willing to suffer with allergy symptoms if I can lose this weight.

For Allergic Rhinitis: I use a generic version of Zyrtec and it does help with common allergy symptoms such as sneezing, running nose, etc. However, it does cause a noticeable feeling of drowsiness in me. It makes it difficult to be at my sharpest while at work so I am going to try taking it at night to see if that helps.

For Allergic Rhinitis: I've been on this at 10mg for a few months to fight my hay fever. It has had some effect, my nose isn't running as frequently, but my eyes are watering and are itchy. If anything it has made my eyes worse. At 10mg it doesn't really do much.

For Allergic Rhinitis: Cured my persistent cough, made me drowsy, but also suffered from insomnia and made me feel depressed, wanted to cry at the slightest negative thought or comment, most unlike me. When I stopped taking pills cough recurred, depression subsided.