Claritin (Loratadine) 10 mg Tablets: Non-Drowsy 24-Hour OTC Antihistamine for Hay Fever, Pet Allergies, and Chronic Urticaria — Over-the-Counter Once Daily, Also Available as Claritin-D with Pseudoephedrine

Information last reviewed: May 2026 — for educational purposes only.

Claritin is a globally recognised brand of loratadine, a second-generation antihistamine that provides 24-hour allergy relief with minimal sedation. It is widely used for seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), perennial allergic rhinitis triggered by dust mites or pet dander, and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). A single 10 mg tablet taken once daily is the standard adult dose, making Claritin one of the most convenient OTC allergy options available.

What Is Loratadine?

Loratadine is a tricyclic antihistamine that selectively blocks peripheral H₁ histamine receptors. Unlike first-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, loratadine has a bulky molecular structure that prevents it from readily crossing the blood-brain barrier at standard doses. As a result, it produces significantly less drowsiness and does not carry the same anticholinergic side effects (dry mouth, urinary difficulty, blurred vision) associated with older antihistamines.

In the body, loratadine is rapidly metabolised to its active form, desloratadine — itself a distinct antihistamine sold under the brand name Clarinex in the United States (Aerius in some other markets). The metabolite is responsible for much of loratadine’s sustained antihistamine activity over 24 hours.

Over-the-Counter Availability

Loratadine has been available over the counter in the United States since 2002 when it moved off prescription status. It is also sold OTC in Canada, Australia, and many European countries. In the UK, it is classified as a Pharmacy (P-class) medicine, dispensed at a pharmacy without a prescription. No general practitioner consultation is required for standard allergy use in adults and children over two years of age (when using appropriate formulations).

Generic loratadine — sold under pharmacy own-label, Alavert, and numerous other brand names — is therapeutically identical to Claritin and widely available at a lower price point.

Tablet Strengths and Forms

The standard loratadine format is the 10 mg tablet for once-daily use in adults and children ten years and over. Additional forms include:

• 5 mg chewable tablets — for children aged 2–9 years; grape or berry flavoured
• 5 mg / 5 ml syrup — liquid formulation for children; useful when tablets are unsuitable
• Claritin-D (loratadine + pseudoephedrine) — a combination product that adds a decongestant; available in 12-hour and 24-hour release forms; kept behind the pharmacy counter in the US due to pseudoephedrine regulations
• Dissolving tablet (RediTabs) — disintegrates on the tongue without water; useful for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets

All standard 10 mg forms are designed for once-daily administration. Taking more than the recommended dose does not enhance the antihistamine effect but increases the risk of mild side effects including headache and dry mouth.

Price and Generic Comparison

Branded Claritin tablets typically cost more per tablet than generic loratadine, despite identical active ingredient content. Consumers looking to minimise cost should compare pharmacy own-brand loratadine, which is regularly available at a fraction of the Claritin branded price. Large packs (90-count or 365-count) offer better value per dose than smaller packs. Most health insurance plans in the US do not cover OTC medications, making generic selection especially relevant for patients managing costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Claritin the same as loratadine?

Yes. Claritin is the most well-known brand name for the active ingredient loratadine. Generic loratadine products contain the same drug at the same strength and are considered bioequivalent by regulatory agencies including the FDA.

Can I take Claritin every day long-term?

Loratadine is generally considered safe for continuous daily use, including throughout allergy seasons that may last several months. It does not typically cause tolerance (reduced effect over time) as some sedating antihistamines do. Patients with chronic conditions such as chronic urticaria are sometimes maintained on it indefinitely under medical supervision.

Does Claritin work for pet allergies?

Yes. Loratadine is effective against allergens including cat dander (Fel d 1), dog dander, and dust mite particles, in addition to pollen. It reduces symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes triggered by these allergens. However, it does not reduce exposure to the allergen itself; environmental control measures remain important.

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