Lora
Generic Name
Loratadine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Loratadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itching. It is a second-generation H1-receptor antagonist.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
10 mg once daily. For children 2-5 years: 5 mg once daily. For children 6 years and older: 10 mg once daily.
Elderly
No dose adjustment is usually necessary for elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
For patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min), initial dose should be 10 mg every other day.
How to Take
Oral administration, with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Loratadine selectively antagonizes peripheral H1-receptors, thereby inhibiting the effects of histamine and alleviating allergy symptoms without significant central nervous system depression.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action within 1-3 hours.
Excretion
Excreted almost equally in urine and feces as conjugated metabolites.
Half life
Loratadine: approximately 8.4 hours; Desloratadine (active metabolite): approximately 28 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP3A4 and CYP2D6) to its major active metabolite, desloratadine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Loratadine or any component of the formulation.
- Children under 2 years of age for syrup formulation.
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine
May increase plasma concentrations of loratadine and desloratadine.
Erythromycin
May increase plasma concentrations of loratadine and desloratadine.
Ketoconazole
May increase plasma concentrations of loratadine and desloratadine.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, tachycardia, and headache. In the event of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed. Loratadine and its active metabolite are excreted in breast milk; therefore, use is not recommended during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, drug stores
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Patent expired
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of loratadine for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria across various age groups.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine lab monitoring is not typically required. Liver and kidney function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing impairment.
- No specific monitoring for therapeutic drug levels.
Doctor Notes
- Less sedating compared to first-generation antihistamines, making it suitable for daytime use.
- Consider dose adjustment in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment.
- Patients should be advised about potential drug interactions, especially with CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist if symptoms persist for more than 7 days.
- Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Although loratadine is generally non-sedating, individual responses may vary. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid known allergens to reduce symptoms.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall immune function.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.