Claridin
Claridin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Claridin is a brand name. Its generic name is Loratadine.
Claridin Introduction
Claridin is a non-sedating antihistamine drug used to treat a variety of allergies, including hay fever, dust allergies, etc. It is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and with a prescription. It is also commonly used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions. It is also available in combination with other drugs, such as pseudoephedrine.
Uses for Claridin
Claridin is used to relieve symptoms of hay fever, dust allergies, skin rashes, hives, itching, and other allergies. It works by blocking histamine, which is a substance that causes many allergy symptoms. It can also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Mechanism of Action
Claridin is a histamine receptor antagonist, meaning it works by blocking the effects of the histamine in the body. Histamine normally causes inflammation in the body when it is released in response to an allergen, and loratadine blocks this reaction. This relieves the symptoms associated with the allergic reaction, such as a runny nose, itching, and sneezing.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Claridin begins to work quickly after administration, usually within the hour. It works best when taken before an allergic reaction occurs, and it can also be used to relieve chronic allergy symptoms.
Absorption
Claridin is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is primarily distributed in the liver, where it is metabolized. Its bioavailability is approximately 50-60%. It has a half-life of approximately 8-10 hours.
Route of Elimination
Claridin is mostly eliminated unchanged in the feces via the bile. Some of it is exhaled in the breath and some is eliminated in the urine.
Dosage
The dose of loratadine will vary depending on the specific condition for which it is being used. For adults and children 12 years and older, the usual dose is 10 mg once daily. For children under 12 years old, the dose is 5 mg per day.
Administration
Claridin can be taken orally with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, split, or chewed. Liquid formulations of loratadine should be measured carefully with a marked measuring spoon or device.
Side Effect
Common side effects of loratadine include headache, nausea, tiredness, dry mouth, dizziness, and sore throat. Other serious side effects may include difficulty breathing or swallowing, rash, itching, hives, and swelling. If any of these side effects occur, contact your doctor.
Toxicity
Claridin is generally a well tolerated drug with few serious side effects. However, loratadine may cause overdose symptoms which can include increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, confusion, agitation, restlessness, convulsions, and tremors. If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center immediately.
Precaution
Before taking loratadine, tell your doctor if you have any allergies. Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan to breastfeed. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to wear sunscreen when going outside.
Interactions
Claridin may interact with other drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. Do not stop taking any medications without talking to your doctor first.
Disease Interactions
Claridin may interact with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, and it should be used with caution in these cases. Inform your doctor of any existing or pre-existing medical conditions.
Drug Interactions
Claridin may interact with other drugs that can lead to increased or decreased levels of loratadine in the body. Common drug interactions include antacids, anticonvulsants, antidiabetics, antibiotics, antihypertensives, antivirals, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, corticosteroids, diuretics, H2-blockers, muscle relaxants, proton pump inhibitors, sedatives, tranquilizers, and warfarin.
Food Interactions
Claridin may interact with certain foods. For example, grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the level of loratadine in the body, making it more likely to cause side effects. Therefore, it is best to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking loratadine.
Pregnancy Use
It is not known if loratadine is safe for use during pregnancy. Therefore, it is best to talk to your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Lactation Use
Claridin has not been adequately tested in breastfeeding women. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before using this medication while breastfeeding.
Acute Overdose
In the case of an acute overdose of loratadine, immediate medical attention is necessary. Symptoms of an overdose include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.
Contraindication
Claridin is contraindicated in people with a known hypersensitivity to loratadine or any of its ingredients. It should also not be used in people with a history of asthma, kidney disease, or liver disease. Your doctor may also advise against using loratadine in patients who are elderly or debilitated due to an increased risk of side effects.
Use Directions
Follow all directions on the prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Take loratadine with water. Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole.
Storage Condition
Store loratadine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine in a closed container. Do not store loratadine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Keep loratadine away from children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of loratadine is unknown. It is likely to be low since it is extensively bound to plasma proteins.
Half Life
The half-life of loratadine is 8-10 hours.
Clearance
Claridin is largely metabolized in the liver, and it has an average clearance of 5L/hr/kg. It is mostly eliminated unchanged in the faeces and exhaled breath.
Here you find in details version of Claridin
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Claridin
What is Claridin?
Claridin is an antihistamine used to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies, hives, and other allergic skin reactions. It is available as an over-the-counter medication and can be taken once a day.
What are the side effects of Claridin?
The most common side effects of Claridin include headache, dry mouth, fatigue, sore throat, nausea, and dizziness.
How long does Claridin take to work?
Claridin begins to work within 1 hour of taking the medication and can last up to 24 hours.
What is the difference between Claridin and Cetirizine?
Claridin and Cetirizine are both antihistamines used to treat allergies. Cetirizine is longer-acting, providing up to 24 hours of relief, while Claridin provides up to 12 hours of relief.
Can Claridin be taken with other medications?
Yes, Claridin can be taken with other medications, however, it is important to check with your doctor before taking any new medications. Different medications can interact with each other, so it is important to make sure that taking them together is safe.
Is Claridin safe to take during pregnancy?
Yes, Claridin is generally considered safe to take during pregnancy. However, it is important to check with your doctor or OBGYN to make sure that it is safe for you to take during your pregnancy.
Can Claridin be used to treat a cold?
No, Claridin is not intended to treat colds and should not be used for that purpose. Claridin is intended to treat allergic reactions and is not effective against viral infections such as the common cold.
How is Claridin taken?
Claridin is typically taken by mouth, either as a pill or as a liquid. It is important to follow the instructions on the medication label for the specific dosage and frequency with which to take the medication.
Does Claridin cause drowsiness?
No, Claridin does not usually cause drowsiness, however, some people may be more sensitive to the medication and it can cause drowsiness in those people.
What is the maximum dosage of Claridin?
The maximum recommended dosage of Claridin is 10 mg per day. Do not take more than this amount, as it can be harmful.
What should I do if I forget to take my Claridin?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
What form does Claridin come in?
Claridin is available in tablets, capsules, and liquid form.
Does Claridin cause weight gain?
No, Claridin does not usually cause weight gain. However, as with any medication, weight gain can be a side effect in some individuals.
What is the half-life of Claridin?
The half-life of Claridin is about 8.5 hours, meaning that it takes about 8.5 hours for half of the medication to be cleared from the body.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Claridin?
If you experience an allergic reaction to Claridin, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek medical help immediately.
Does Claridin interact with other medications?
Yes, Claridin can interact with other medications, such as antifungal medications, sedatives, and other antihistamines. It is important to check with your doctor before taking any new medications to make sure they won't interact with Claridin.
Is Claridin addictive?
No, Claridin is not considered to be addictive. However, Claridin can cause physical dependence if it is taken in high doses for a long period of time.
Can Claridin be used to treat hay fever?
Yes, Claridin can be used to treat the symptoms of hay fever such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose.
Is Claridin a steroid?
No, Claridin is not a steroid. It is an antihistamine, which means it blocks the production of histamine and reduces allergic symptoms.
Can I take Claridin with alcohol?
It is not recommended to take Claridin with alcohol. Alcohol can increase the side effects of Claridin and reduce its effectiveness.
Can I take Claridin if I have asthma?
Yes, Claridin can be taken by people with asthma. However, it is important to check with your doctor before taking any new medications as different medications can interact with each other.
What is the shelf life of Claridin?
The shelf life of Claridin is typically two years, however, it is important to check the expiration date on the package to be sure.
Is Claridin a prescription medication?
No, Claridin is not a prescription medication. It is available over-the-counter without a prescription.
What is the dosage for Claridin?
The usual dosage for adults and children 12 years of age and older is 10 mg once a day. For children under 12 years of age, the dosage is based on the weight of the child.
Does Claridin cause dry mouth?
Yes, dry mouth is a common side effect of Claridin. It is important to let your doctor know if you experience this side effect.
Can I take Claridin if I have kidney disease?
Yes, Claridin can be taken if you have kidney disease. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking the medication, as it may affect your kidney function.
Can children take Claridin?
Yes, children can take Claridin, however, it is important to speak to your doctor to make sure the medication is going to be safe and effective for your child.
What happens if I take too much Claridin?
Taking too much Claridin can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or dry mouth. If you think you have taken too much, contact your doctor or local poison center for advice.
Does Claridin cause diarrhea?
Yes, diarrhea can be a side effect of Claridin. If it persists or is severe, contact your doctor.
Does Claridin make you sleepy?
No, Claridin does not usually make you sleepy, however, some people may be more sensitive to the medication and it can cause drowsiness in those people.
Can Claridin be taken long-term?
Yes, Claridin can be taken long-term if it is being used to treat chronic allergies or constant hives. Speak to your doctor if you have any questions.
Can I take Claridin with ibuprofen?
Yes, Claridin can be taken with ibuprofen. However, it is important to check with your doctor before taking any new medications as different medications can interact with each other.
Does Claridin cause constipation?
Yes, constipation can be a side effect of Claridin. If it persists or is severe, contact your doctor.
Can I take Claridin with other antihistamines?
No, it is not recommended to take Claridin with other antihistamines as this can increase the side effects of both medications.
How long should I wait between taking Claridin and other medications?
It is recommended to wait for at least 1 hour between taking Claridin and other medications. This allows the medications time to be fully absorbed by the body before taking the other medication.
What is the difference between Claridin and Diphenhydramine?
Claridin and Diphenhydramine are both antihistamines used to treat allergies. Claridin is longer-acting, providing up to 24 hours of relief, while Diphenhydramine produces a more immediate relief but only provides relief for up to 6 hours.
Can Claridin be taken with dairy products?
Yes, Claridin can be taken with dairy products. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the product label for the correct timing and frequency with which to take the medication.
Does Claridin cause headaches?
Yes, headaches can be a side effect of Claridin. If the headaches persist or are severe, contact your doctor.
Does Claridin cause tremors?
No, Claridin does not usually cause tremors. If you experience tremors after taking Claridin, contact your doctor.
Can Claridin be taken on an empty stomach?
Yes, Claridin can be taken on an empty stomach. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the product label for the correct timing and frequency with which to take the medication.
Can Claridin cause weight loss?
No, Claridin does not usually cause weight loss. However, as with any medication, weight loss can be a side effect in some individuals.
Does Claridin cause blurred vision?
Yes, blurred vision can be a side effect of Claridin. If it persists or is severe, contact your doctor.
Does Claridin cause mood swings?
No, Claridin does not usually cause mood swings. However, it is important to let your doctor know if you experience any changes in mood after taking Claridin.