Claritin-D contains two active ingredients: loratadine and pseudoephedrine sulfate [1].
What is loratadine?
Loratadine is an antihistamine that helps treat allergy symptoms [2]. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance the body releases during an allergic reaction [3].
What is pseudoephedrine sulfate?
Pseudoephedrine sulfate is a decongestant that helps relieve nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and runny nose associated with allergies [2][4]. It works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and eases breathing [4].
How do loratadine and pseudoephedrine work together?
The combination of loratadine and pseudoephedrine in Claritin-D provides relief for a broader range of allergy symptoms than either ingredient alone [2]. Loratadine addresses allergy-related symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes, while pseudoephedrine targets nasal congestion [2][3][4].
What conditions does Claritin-D treat?
Claritin-D is used to temporarily relieve nasal and sinus symptoms of hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies, such as sinus congestion, sinus pressure, runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and itchy nose or throat [2].
When does the patent for Claritin-D expire?
The patent exclusivity for loratadine, the active ingredient in Claritin, has expired, allowing for the availability of generic versions [5]. Information regarding patents for specific combination products like Claritin-D and their expiry dates can be tracked on sites such as DrugPatentWatch.com [6].