Claritin
(Loratadine)

What Claritin is and what it is used for

This medicine contains Loratadine which belongs to a group of medicines called antihistamines, which act to relieve the symptoms of allergies. It can be used to relieve the symptoms of hayfever (e.g. sneezing, runny and itchy nose and eye irritation). It can also be used to treat raised, red itchy skin (symptoms of urticaria, which is often known as hives or nettle rash).

How to take Claritin

Check the cap seal is not broken before first use. If it is, do not take the medicine. Shake the bottle well before use. Use the spoon provided. Giving this medicine to children: It is important to know how much your child weighs to make sure you give them the correct amount of medicine. As a guide a child of 9 years of age will weigh about 30 kg. If in doubt weigh your child, then follow the instructions in the table on the back of this leaflet. Do not give to children under 2 years. Age How much to take How often to take Adults and children of 12 years and over Two 5 ml spoonfuls Once a day Children of 2 to 12 years who weigh more than 30 kg Two 5 ml spoonfuls Once a day Children of 2 to 12 years who weigh less than 30 kg One 5 ml spoonful Once a day If you have severe liver problems your doctor or pharmacist may advise you to take the recommended amount every other day. If this applies to you, follow their instructions. This medicine should be swallowed. Do not take more than the amount recommended above. If symptoms do not go away talk to your pharmacist or doctor. ! If you take too much: Talk to a doctor straight away. Go to your nearest hospital casualty department. Take your medicine and this leaflet with you.

Possible side effects

Most people will not have problems, but some may get some. If you have any unwanted side effects you should seek advice from your doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. ! If you get any of these serious side effects, stop taking this medicine. See a doctor at once:
• Difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face, neck, tongue or throat (severe allergic reactions) The most commonly reported side effects in adults and children aged 2 to 12 years are:
• headache, nervousness, tiredness The following very rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people) have also been seen during the marketing of loratadine:
• severe allergic reaction, dizziness, fast or irregular heartbeat
• nausea (feeling sick), dry mouth, upset stomach, liver problems
• hair loss, rash and tiredness The following not known side effect (cannot be estimated from the available data) has also been seen during the marketing of loratadine:
• Weight increased

Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to Store Claritin

Keep this medicine in a safe place out of the sight and reach of children, preferably in a locked cupboard. Use by the date on the end flap of the carton, or 6 months after first opening. After this date return any unused product to your nearest pharmacy for safe disposal.