Is Drowsiness Tied to Loratadine?

Loratadine, commonly known by the brand name Claritin, is a popular antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergies such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. It is often classified as a non-drowsy medication, meaning it is designed to minimize the risk of drowsiness compared to older sedating antihistamines like chlorphenamine.

However, while loratadine is generally considered non-drowsy, it is not entirely free from causing drowsiness. Some people may still experience feelings of tiredness or sleepiness after taking it, although this is not common. If you find that loratadine makes you feel drowsy, it’s advisable to take it at night to avoid any potential impact on your daily activities, such as driving or operating machinery.

The mechanism by which loratadine works involves blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during allergic reactions. This blocking action helps reduce symptoms like itching, sneezing, and congestion. Most people start to feel relief from allergy symptoms within one to three hours of taking loratadine.

It’s also important to note that while loratadine itself has a low risk of drowsiness, combining it with other medications that cause drowsiness can increase this risk. For example, if you are taking opioid pain medications, muscle relaxers, or benzodiazepines, your likelihood of feeling drowsy may increase.

In summary, while loratadine is generally non-drowsy, it can still cause drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience this side effect, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for advice on managing it.