Loratadine is marketed and sold under various brand names, with Claritin being the most widely recognized. Other common brand names for loratadine include Alavert, CLARITYN, and Tavist Allergy [1]. It is also available as a generic medication, meaning it is sold under its chemical name, loratadine, by multiple manufacturers [2].
What is Loratadine Used For?
Loratadine is an antihistamine primarily used to relieve allergy symptoms. These symptoms can include sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose or throat, and watery, itchy eyes [3]. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions [4].
How Does Loratadine Differ from Other Antihistamines?
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine. Unlike first-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), loratadine is less likely to cause drowsiness [4]. This is because it crosses the blood-brain barrier to a lesser extent, reducing its sedative effects [5].
When Did Loratadine Become Available?
Loratadine was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1993 under the brand name Claritin [1]. Its patent protection expired, leading to the introduction of generic versions in the mid-2000s [6].
Can You Get Loratadine Over-the-Counter?
Yes, loratadine is available over-the-counter (OTC) in various formulations, including tablets, liquid gels, and syrups [1][3]. This accessibility allows individuals to manage allergy symptoms without a prescription.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Loratadine?
While generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of loratadine can include headache, nervousness, and fatigue [3]. Serious side effects are rare but may involve allergic reactions [3].
What Are the Alternatives to Loratadine for Allergy Relief?
Other antihistamines, both prescription and over-the-counter, are available for allergy relief. These include other second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra), as well as nasal corticosteroids and decongestants [4].
Who Manufactures Loratadine Products?
Numerous pharmaceutical companies manufacture and market loratadine products. Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, the original developer of Claritin, remains a prominent marketer. Following patent expiration, many generic manufacturers, such as Teva Pharmaceuticals, Sandoz, and Aurobindo Pharma, also produce loratadine [2][7].
What is the Patent Status of Loratadine?
The original patents for loratadine have expired. This means that other companies are legally permitted to manufacture and sell generic versions of the drug [6]. Information on specific patent expirations can be found on resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [8].
Sources:
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/019756s047,020814s016lbl.pdf
[2] https://www.goodrx.com/loratadine
[3] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a693023.html
[4] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/allergy-medications/art-20046401
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4594000/
[6] https://www.fiercepharma.com/marketing/claritin-s-patent-expires-unleashing-a-generic-rush
[7] https://www.drugs.com/loratadine.html
[8] https://drugpatentwatch.com/