Loratadine Side Effects

Common side effects of loratadine in adults include headaches, dizziness, and dry mouth. In children, side effects include hyperactivity and stomach pain. Side effects are typically minor and easily treated. However, some loratadine side effects are potentially serious and should be reported to your healthcare provider right away, such as breathing problems or signs of an allergic reaction.

 

Loratadine Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with loratadine (Claritin®). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with loratadine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of loratadine side effects with you.)
 

Serious Loratadine Side Effects

Some side effects with loratadine, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. As with most recently approved non-prescription products, loratadine is usually safe to use and rarely causes serious side effects. These serious side effects include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Wheezing or other breathing problems
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including an unexplained rash, hives, itching, and unexplained swelling, especially of the lips, mouth, or throat.
     
(Loratadine Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;