Product Details: Claritin (Loratadine)

Generic Options

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This medicine is an antihistamine used to treat the symptoms of hay fever and other allergic conditions such as watery eyes; runny nose (rhinitis); itching eyes, nose, or throat; and sneezing. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly closed container, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C), away from heat and moisture. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this medicine more often than directed. Exceeding the recommended dose may cause drowsiness. THIS MEDICINE MAY AFFECT CERTAIN LAB TEST RESULTS including skin allergy tests. Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctors know you use this medicine. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Side Effects

NO COMMON SIDE EFFECTS HAVE BEEN REPORTED with the proper use of this medicine. If you notice any unusual effects, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience severe or persistent dizziness. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, wheezing, or trouble breathing. If you notice any unusual effects, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Loratadine