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Claritin Side Effects

Generic name: loratadine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 3, 2023.

Note: This document contains side effect information about loratadine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Claritin.

Applies to loratadine: oral capsule liquid filled, oral solution, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet disintegrating.

Serious side effects of Claritin

Along with its needed effects, loratadine (the active ingredient contained in Claritin) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking loratadine:

Incidence not known

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to loratadine: oral capsule, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet disintegrating.

General

The most commonly reported side effects included headache, somnolence nervousness, and fatigue.[Ref]

Nervous system

Very common (10% or more): Headache (up to 12%)

Common (1% to 10%): Sedation/somnolence

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Dizziness, convulsion

Frequency not reported: Syncope, paresthesia[Ref]

Psychiatric

Common (1% to 10%): Nervousness

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Insomnia

Frequency not reported: Depression, paroniria[Ref]

Other

Common (1% to 10%): Fatigue

Frequency not reported: Fever, viral infection, tinnitus, malaise[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Common (1% to 10%): Dry mouth

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Nausea, gastritis

Frequency not reported: Dyspepsia, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal/gastric pain, altered taste, increased saliva[Ref]

Metabolic

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Increased appetite[Ref]

Dermatologic

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Angioedema, rash, alopecia

Frequency not reported: Pruritus, rash on face[Ref]

Genitourinary

Frequency not reported: Increased frequency of urination, urine discoloration, menstruation delay[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Tachycardia, palpitation

Frequency not reported: Hypertension, hypotension, chest pain[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylaxis[Ref]

Hepatic

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Abnormal hepatic function[Ref]

Respiratory

Frequency not reported: Epistaxis, nasal dryness, pharyngitis, coughing[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

Frequency not reported: Myalgia[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

References

1. Product Information. Claritin (loratadine). Schering Corporation. 2002;PROD.

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. UK Summary of Product Characteristics.

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. Australian Product Information.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.