What is loratadine used for?

Loratadine is a once-daily, non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve hay fever, pet allergy symptoms and hives (urticaria). It is available both over the counter and on prescription. It is generally well tolerated and causes less sedation than older, sedating antihistamines, making it suitable for daytime use.

What is the difference between loratadine and chlorphenamine?

Loratadine is less sedating than chlorphenamine, making it a better choice for daytime use when you need to stay alert. Chlorphenamine causes more drowsiness, which some people use deliberately as a short-term sleep aid.

Can I take loratadine every day throughout hay fever season?

Yes, loratadine is safe to take daily for long-term seasonal use during hay fever season. Taking it regularly helps keep symptoms under control rather than only treating them once they flare up.

Can I take loratadine if I have asthma?

Loratadine treats allergic rhinitis, and improving rhinitis symptoms may help asthma control as an adjunct to your usual asthma treatment. It is not a replacement for your prescribed asthma inhalers or medicines.

What dose of loratadine can children have?

Children's doses of loratadine depend on their age and weight, using formulations designed for children. Always read the product label for age-appropriate dosing, and ask a GP for advice if your child is under 2 years old.

Loratadine: Uses & Side Effects

What loratadine is used for

Loratadine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic conjunctivitis, and urticaria (hives). It can also help ease the itch of insect bites.

How to take loratadine

Loratadine is usually taken as one whole tablet once daily. Dissolving tablets are also available for people who find these easier to take.

What are the side effects of loratadine?

The most common side effect is feeling sleepy, which affects more than 1 in 100 people. If it happens, try a different non-drowsy antihistamine, and do not drive, cycle or use machinery until you feel fully alert. Children can also get headaches or feel tired or nervous. Talk to a pharmacist or GP if a side effect does not go away.

A serious allergic reaction to loratadine is rare. Call 999 if your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly swell, you are struggling to breathe or swallow, or someone becomes very confused or drowsy or faints.

Getting the most from loratadine

Starting loratadine before pollen season begins can help keep hay fever symptoms under control from the outset. For moderate to severe symptoms, combining loratadine with an intranasal steroid spray can give better relief than either treatment alone.

When loratadine is not enough

Loratadine on its own is not sufficient treatment for anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. For severe urticaria that does not respond to a standard dose, a GP may recommend a higher dose of fexofenadine or referral to a specialist.

Common questions about loratadine

What is the difference between loratadine and chlorphenamine?: Loratadine is less sedating than chlorphenamine, making it a better choice for daytime use when you need to stay alert. Chlorphenamine causes more drowsiness, which some people use deliberately as a short-term sleep aid.
Can I take loratadine every day throughout hay fever season?: Yes, loratadine is safe to take daily for long-term seasonal use during hay fever season. Taking it regularly helps keep symptoms under control rather than only treating them once they flare up.
Can I take loratadine if I have asthma?: Loratadine treats allergic rhinitis, and improving rhinitis symptoms may help asthma control as an adjunct to your usual asthma treatment. It is not a replacement for your prescribed asthma inhalers or medicines.
What dose of loratadine can children have?: Children's doses of loratadine depend on their age and weight, using formulations designed for children. Always read the product label for age-appropriate dosing, and ask a GP for advice if your child is under 2 years old.

Sources

How we reviewed this page

Medically reviewed by the HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel

First published: 28 June 2026
Medically reviewed: 25 September 2026
Next review due: 25 September 2029 or sooner if NHS or NICE guidance changes

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