Loratadine

Question 1

What is loratadine?

Answer 1

Loratadine (10mg tab) is a long acting, second generation peripheral histamine H1-receptor antagonist used to treat allergies.

Absorbed in the GI tract with rapid first pass hepatic metabolism.

Onset: 1-2hrs
Duration: 24hrs
Half-life: 8hrs

Question 2

Indications for loratadine?

Answer 2

1. Symptomatic urticaria (without evidence of anaphylaxis)

Question 3

Contraindications for loratadine?

Answer 3

1. Allergy/ADR
2. Anaphylaxis
3. Patients less than 8yrs

Question 4

Precautions for loratadine?

Answer 4

1. Severe hepatic impairment

2. Increased risk of sedation & anticholinergic effects in older people

Question 5

Side effects of loratadine?

Answer 5

1. Drowsiness
2. Fatigue
3. Headache
4. Nausea
5. Dry mouth

Question 6

What is the dose of loratadine for an adult?

Answer 6

10mg PO
Single dose only
Not to be administered within 24hrs of previous antihistamine administration unless approved by QAS clinical consult.

Question 7

What is the dose of loratadine for a paediatric?

Answer 7

> 8yrs - 10mg PO
Single dose only
Not to be administered within 24hrs of previous antihistamine administration unless approved by QAS clinical consult.