The Story
What Is the Loratadine Hayfever Tablets and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops Bundle?
Hayfever affects roughly one in five people in the UK, and for many, the symptoms hit from multiple angles at once — sneezing, a streaming nose, and eyes that itch and water relentlessly. This bundle brings together two trusted over-the-counter treatments in one convenient purchase: 30 loratadine hayfever tablets at 10mg strength, paired with a 10ml bottle of Optrex Allergy Eye Drops. Together, they target both the systemic and localised symptoms of allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis, giving you a more rounded approach to managing allergy season. You can explore the full range of allergy and hayfever treatments available at Cured Pharmacy if you need additional options.
Loratadine is a second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamine that has been used widely in the UK for decades. The Optrex Allergy Eye Drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v, a mast cell stabiliser specifically formulated to relieve itchy, watery, and red eyes caused by allergic reactions. At just £7.00 for both products, this bundle offers genuine value for anyone managing seasonal or perennial allergies.
How Does This Allergy Bundle Work to Relieve Symptoms?
The two products in this bundle work through different but complementary mechanisms, which is exactly why combining them makes clinical sense.
- Loratadine (tablets): Selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors. When your immune system detects an allergen such as pollen, it triggers the release of histamine — the chemical responsible for sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion. Loratadine prevents histamine from binding to its receptors, reducing these responses without significantly crossing the blood-brain barrier, which is why it causes far less sedation than first-generation antihistamines like chlorphenamine.
- Sodium cromoglicate (eye drops): Works as a mast cell stabiliser. It prevents mast cells in the conjunctiva from releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators in response to allergens. This reduces redness, itching, and watering of the eyes at the source.
- Combined effect: The tablet addresses whole-body allergic symptoms — sneezing, runny nose, skin itching — while the eye drops provide targeted, localised relief directly where eye symptoms occur.
Who Is This Bundle Suitable For?
This bundle is designed for adults and children aged 2 years and over who experience allergic symptoms, particularly during the spring and summer pollen season. It is equally useful for people with perennial (year-round) allergies triggered by dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores.
- Adults and teenagers with seasonal hayfever
- People who experience both nasal and eye allergy symptoms simultaneously
- Those who need a non-drowsy daytime antihistamine suitable for work or driving
- Anyone looking to consolidate their allergy management into a single, cost-effective purchase
How Does This Bundle Compare to Buying Separately?
| Feature | This Bundle (Loratadine + Optrex) | Buying Separately |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £7.00 for both | Typically £4–£6 each |
| Symptom coverage | Systemic + ocular | Depends on products chosen |
| Convenience | Single order, one delivery | Multiple orders or trips |
| Drowsiness risk | Low (non-drowsy loratadine) | Varies by antihistamine chosen |
How Should You Store This Bundle and Is It Clinically Appropriate for You?
Store both products below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach of children. Once opened, the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops should be used within 28 days — discard any remaining solution after this period. The loratadine tablets should be kept in their original blister packaging until use.
If you have liver or kidney impairment, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before using either product. People who wear soft contact lenses should remove them before instilling the eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting. For those managing eye-related allergy symptoms specifically, our eye care collection includes further options worth considering.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Allergy & Hayfever Relief Loratadine and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops Bundle - 30 Tablets + 10ml specifications
| Treatment category | Allergy & Hayfever Relief |
| Active ingredient (tablets) | Loratadine 10mg |
| Active ingredient (eye drops) | Sodium Cromoglicate 2% w/v |
| Mechanism of action | H1 antihistamine (tablets); Mast cell stabiliser (eye drops) |
| Pack sizes | 30 tablets + 10ml eye drops |
| Strengths | Loratadine 10mg; Sodium Cromoglicate 2% w/v |
| UK classification | General Sale / Pharmacy Medicine (P) |
| Drug class | Second-generation antihistamine; Mast cell stabiliser |
| Preparation | Film-coated tablet; Sterile eye drops solution |
| Route of administration | Oral (tablets); Ocular (eye drops) |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 2 years and over |
| Effective for | Hayfever, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis |
Specifications of Allergy & Hayfever Relief Loratadine and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops Bundle - 30 Tablets + 10ml
What Is This Bundle and What Is It Used For?
This bundle contains two separate medicines: loratadine 10mg film-coated tablets and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops containing sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v. Loratadine is used to relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hayfever), including sneezing, itchy and runny nose, and skin reactions such as urticaria (hives). The Optrex Allergy Eye Drops are used to relieve allergic eye symptoms including itching, redness, and watering caused by hayfever or other airborne allergens.
Both products are available over the counter in the UK without a prescription. They are intended for short-term symptomatic relief during allergy season, though loratadine can also be used for perennial allergic rhinitis under pharmacist or GP guidance.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using This Bundle?
Do not use this bundle if any of the following apply to you:
- You are allergic to loratadine, sodium cromoglicate, or any other ingredient in either product
- You have severe hepatic (liver) impairment — loratadine should be used with caution and at a reduced frequency
- You are under 2 years of age
- You wear soft contact lenses (remove before using eye drops; wait 15 minutes before reinserting)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice before use, as loratadine passes into breast milk in small amounts
The following medicines may interact with loratadine. Tell your pharmacist if you are taking:
- Cimetidine (used for indigestion)
- Ketoconazole (antifungal)
- Erythromycin (antibiotic)
- Any other antihistamines
- Medicines that cause drowsiness, including some sleeping tablets or anxiolytics
How Should You Use This Bundle Correctly?
Follow these steps for the loratadine tablets:
- Take one 10mg tablet by mouth once daily.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water — it can be taken with or without food.
- Take at the same time each day for consistent symptom control.
- Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period.
For the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before use.
- Remove soft contact lenses if worn.
- Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket.
- Instil 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye.
- Blink gently. Do not touch the dropper tip to your eye or any surface.
- Use 2 to 4 times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist.
| Product | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loratadine tablets | Adults & children ≥12 years | 10mg (1 tablet) | Once daily |
| Loratadine tablets | Children 2–12 years (>30kg) | 10mg (1 tablet) | Once daily |
| Loratadine tablets | Children 2–12 years (≤30kg) | 5mg (syrup preferred) | Once daily |
| Optrex Allergy Eye Drops | Adults & children ≥6 years | 1–2 drops per eye | 2–4 times daily |
What Are the Possible Side Effects of This Bundle?
Like all medicines, both products in this bundle can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Common side effects of loratadine (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Nervousness (particularly in children)
Less common side effects of loratadine:
- Nausea
- Gastritis (stomach irritation)
- Skin rash
- Tachycardia (fast heartbeat) — rare
Side effects of Optrex Allergy Eye Drops:
- Mild, transient stinging or burning on instillation
- Temporary blurred vision immediately after use
Stop using either product and seek medical advice immediately if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash. If you are looking for additional support managing allergy-related symptoms, our ear, nose and throat collection may also be helpful.
How Should You Store This Bundle?
- Store both products below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink — moisture can degrade the tablets
- Once opened, use the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops within 28 days and then discard
- Do not use either product after the expiry date printed on the packaging
- Do not freeze the eye drops
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/loratadine/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/loratadine/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the loratadine and Optrex allergy eye drops bundle online in the UK?
You can buy this bundle directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, without needing a prescription. It is available as an over-the-counter product and is dispatched quickly to UK addresses. Simply add it to your basket and complete your order through our secure checkout. You can also browse our full allergy and hayfever collection for additional products.
How do loratadine hayfever tablets work in the body?
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that selectively blocks H1 histamine receptors in the body. When you are exposed to an allergen like pollen, your immune system releases histamine, which triggers sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. By blocking these receptors, loratadine reduces those symptoms without causing significant drowsiness, because it does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier.
How do I use the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops step by step?
Start by washing your hands thoroughly and removing any soft contact lenses. Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid, and instil 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye. Blink gently afterwards and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any surface to prevent contamination. Use 2 to 4 times daily as needed.
What is the correct dose of loratadine for adults and children?
Adults and children aged 12 years and over should take one 10mg loratadine tablet once daily. Children aged 2 to 12 years who weigh more than 30kg can also take one 10mg tablet once daily, while those weighing 30kg or less are usually better suited to a 5mg loratadine syrup formulation. Never exceed the recommended daily dose.
What is the best time of day to take loratadine hayfever tablets?
Loratadine can be taken at any time of day, with or without food, and it works for a full 24 hours. Many people find it helpful to take it in the morning before heading outdoors during high pollen periods. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain consistent levels in your system for ongoing symptom control.
Can I take loratadine every day throughout hayfever season?
Yes, loratadine is suitable for daily use throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on the pollen type. It does not lose effectiveness with regular use, unlike some older antihistamines. If your symptoms persist beyond the expected season or worsen significantly, speak to your GP for further assessment.
Who should not use this loratadine and Optrex bundle?
This bundle is not suitable for children under 2 years of age, or for anyone with a known allergy to loratadine or sodium cromoglicate. People with severe liver impairment should seek medical advice before using loratadine. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medicines that may interact, always check with your pharmacist first.
What are the common side effects of loratadine hayfever tablets?
The most commonly reported side effects of loratadine include headache, dry mouth, and fatigue. These are generally mild and tend to resolve without any treatment. Serious side effects such as a fast heartbeat or severe allergic reaction are rare, but if they occur you should stop taking the tablets and seek medical attention promptly.
How do I manage side effects from the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops?
A mild stinging or burning sensation immediately after instilling the drops is normal and usually passes within a few seconds. Temporary blurred vision can also occur, so avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears. If irritation persists or worsens, stop using the drops and consult your pharmacist or GP.
Can I use this bundle if I wear contact lenses?
You should remove soft contact lenses before instilling the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. The loratadine tablets are not affected by contact lens use. If you regularly wear lenses and suffer from allergic eye symptoms, it is worth discussing your options with an optometrist or pharmacist.
What happens if I miss a dose of loratadine?
If you forget to take your loratadine tablet, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case simply skip the missed dose. Never take two tablets at once to make up for a missed one. Missing an occasional dose is unlikely to cause a significant return of symptoms, but try to take it consistently for best results.
How does loratadine compare to cetirizine for hayfever?
Both loratadine and cetirizine are second-generation antihistamines and are effective for hayfever. Loratadine is generally considered to have a slightly lower risk of causing drowsiness in some individuals, while cetirizine may have a marginally faster onset of action for certain people. Individual responses vary, so if one does not suit you, your pharmacist can advise on alternatives.
How long can I use the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops for?
The Optrex Allergy Eye Drops can be used throughout the allergy season for ongoing symptom relief. Once opened, the bottle should be used within 28 days and then discarded, even if solution remains. If your eye symptoms do not improve after a few days of use, or if you develop pain, significant redness, or changes in vision, seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.
Are there any alternatives to this loratadine and Optrex bundle?
Yes — alternatives include other antihistamines such as cetirizine or fexofenadine for systemic symptoms, and different eye drop formulations for ocular symptoms. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are also recommended by the NHS for moderate to severe hayfever. You can explore a wider range of options in our eye care collection and allergy range.
What does the latest research say about loratadine for hayfever?
Loratadine has been extensively studied and remains one of the most widely recommended non-drowsy antihistamines for allergic rhinitis in clinical guidelines. The NHS and NICE both recognise it as a first-line treatment option for hayfever. Research continues to confirm its favourable safety profile and efficacy compared to first-generation antihistamines, particularly for daytime use when sedation is undesirable.
Description
What Is the Loratadine Hayfever Tablets and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops Bundle?
Hayfever affects roughly one in five people in the UK, and for many, the symptoms hit from multiple angles at once — sneezing, a streaming nose, and eyes that itch and water relentlessly. This bundle brings together two trusted over-the-counter treatments in one convenient purchase: 30 loratadine hayfever tablets at 10mg strength, paired with a 10ml bottle of Optrex Allergy Eye Drops. Together, they target both the systemic and localised symptoms of allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis, giving you a more rounded approach to managing allergy season. You can explore the full range of allergy and hayfever treatments available at Cured Pharmacy if you need additional options.
Loratadine is a second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamine that has been used widely in the UK for decades. The Optrex Allergy Eye Drops contain sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v, a mast cell stabiliser specifically formulated to relieve itchy, watery, and red eyes caused by allergic reactions. At just £7.00 for both products, this bundle offers genuine value for anyone managing seasonal or perennial allergies.
How Does This Allergy Bundle Work to Relieve Symptoms?
The two products in this bundle work through different but complementary mechanisms, which is exactly why combining them makes clinical sense.
- Loratadine (tablets): Selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors. When your immune system detects an allergen such as pollen, it triggers the release of histamine — the chemical responsible for sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion. Loratadine prevents histamine from binding to its receptors, reducing these responses without significantly crossing the blood-brain barrier, which is why it causes far less sedation than first-generation antihistamines like chlorphenamine.
- Sodium cromoglicate (eye drops): Works as a mast cell stabiliser. It prevents mast cells in the conjunctiva from releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators in response to allergens. This reduces redness, itching, and watering of the eyes at the source.
- Combined effect: The tablet addresses whole-body allergic symptoms — sneezing, runny nose, skin itching — while the eye drops provide targeted, localised relief directly where eye symptoms occur.
Who Is This Bundle Suitable For?
This bundle is designed for adults and children aged 2 years and over who experience allergic symptoms, particularly during the spring and summer pollen season. It is equally useful for people with perennial (year-round) allergies triggered by dust mites, pet dander, or mould spores.
- Adults and teenagers with seasonal hayfever
- People who experience both nasal and eye allergy symptoms simultaneously
- Those who need a non-drowsy daytime antihistamine suitable for work or driving
- Anyone looking to consolidate their allergy management into a single, cost-effective purchase
How Does This Bundle Compare to Buying Separately?
| Feature | This Bundle (Loratadine + Optrex) | Buying Separately |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £7.00 for both | Typically £4–£6 each |
| Symptom coverage | Systemic + ocular | Depends on products chosen |
| Convenience | Single order, one delivery | Multiple orders or trips |
| Drowsiness risk | Low (non-drowsy loratadine) | Varies by antihistamine chosen |
How Should You Store This Bundle and Is It Clinically Appropriate for You?
Store both products below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach of children. Once opened, the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops should be used within 28 days — discard any remaining solution after this period. The loratadine tablets should be kept in their original blister packaging until use.
If you have liver or kidney impairment, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before using either product. People who wear soft contact lenses should remove them before instilling the eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting. For those managing eye-related allergy symptoms specifically, our eye care collection includes further options worth considering.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Allergy & Hayfever Relief Loratadine and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops Bundle - 30 Tablets + 10ml specifications
| Treatment category | Allergy & Hayfever Relief |
| Active ingredient (tablets) | Loratadine 10mg |
| Active ingredient (eye drops) | Sodium Cromoglicate 2% w/v |
| Mechanism of action | H1 antihistamine (tablets); Mast cell stabiliser (eye drops) |
| Pack sizes | 30 tablets + 10ml eye drops |
| Strengths | Loratadine 10mg; Sodium Cromoglicate 2% w/v |
| UK classification | General Sale / Pharmacy Medicine (P) |
| Drug class | Second-generation antihistamine; Mast cell stabiliser |
| Preparation | Film-coated tablet; Sterile eye drops solution |
| Route of administration | Oral (tablets); Ocular (eye drops) |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 2 years and over |
| Effective for | Hayfever, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis |
Specifications of Allergy & Hayfever Relief Loratadine and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops Bundle - 30 Tablets + 10ml
What Is This Bundle and What Is It Used For?
This bundle contains two separate medicines: loratadine 10mg film-coated tablets and Optrex Allergy Eye Drops containing sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v. Loratadine is used to relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hayfever), including sneezing, itchy and runny nose, and skin reactions such as urticaria (hives). The Optrex Allergy Eye Drops are used to relieve allergic eye symptoms including itching, redness, and watering caused by hayfever or other airborne allergens.
Both products are available over the counter in the UK without a prescription. They are intended for short-term symptomatic relief during allergy season, though loratadine can also be used for perennial allergic rhinitis under pharmacist or GP guidance.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using This Bundle?
Do not use this bundle if any of the following apply to you:
- You are allergic to loratadine, sodium cromoglicate, or any other ingredient in either product
- You have severe hepatic (liver) impairment — loratadine should be used with caution and at a reduced frequency
- You are under 2 years of age
- You wear soft contact lenses (remove before using eye drops; wait 15 minutes before reinserting)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice before use, as loratadine passes into breast milk in small amounts
The following medicines may interact with loratadine. Tell your pharmacist if you are taking:
- Cimetidine (used for indigestion)
- Ketoconazole (antifungal)
- Erythromycin (antibiotic)
- Any other antihistamines
- Medicines that cause drowsiness, including some sleeping tablets or anxiolytics
How Should You Use This Bundle Correctly?
Follow these steps for the loratadine tablets:
- Take one 10mg tablet by mouth once daily.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water — it can be taken with or without food.
- Take at the same time each day for consistent symptom control.
- Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period.
For the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before use.
- Remove soft contact lenses if worn.
- Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket.
- Instil 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye.
- Blink gently. Do not touch the dropper tip to your eye or any surface.
- Use 2 to 4 times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist.
| Product | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loratadine tablets | Adults & children ≥12 years | 10mg (1 tablet) | Once daily |
| Loratadine tablets | Children 2–12 years (>30kg) | 10mg (1 tablet) | Once daily |
| Loratadine tablets | Children 2–12 years (≤30kg) | 5mg (syrup preferred) | Once daily |
| Optrex Allergy Eye Drops | Adults & children ≥6 years | 1–2 drops per eye | 2–4 times daily |
What Are the Possible Side Effects of This Bundle?
Like all medicines, both products in this bundle can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Common side effects of loratadine (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Nervousness (particularly in children)
Less common side effects of loratadine:
- Nausea
- Gastritis (stomach irritation)
- Skin rash
- Tachycardia (fast heartbeat) — rare
Side effects of Optrex Allergy Eye Drops:
- Mild, transient stinging or burning on instillation
- Temporary blurred vision immediately after use
Stop using either product and seek medical advice immediately if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash. If you are looking for additional support managing allergy-related symptoms, our ear, nose and throat collection may also be helpful.
How Should You Store This Bundle?
- Store both products below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink — moisture can degrade the tablets
- Once opened, use the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops within 28 days and then discard
- Do not use either product after the expiry date printed on the packaging
- Do not freeze the eye drops
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/loratadine/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/loratadine/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the loratadine and Optrex allergy eye drops bundle online in the UK?
You can buy this bundle directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, without needing a prescription. It is available as an over-the-counter product and is dispatched quickly to UK addresses. Simply add it to your basket and complete your order through our secure checkout. You can also browse our full allergy and hayfever collection for additional products.
How do loratadine hayfever tablets work in the body?
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that selectively blocks H1 histamine receptors in the body. When you are exposed to an allergen like pollen, your immune system releases histamine, which triggers sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. By blocking these receptors, loratadine reduces those symptoms without causing significant drowsiness, because it does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier.
How do I use the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops step by step?
Start by washing your hands thoroughly and removing any soft contact lenses. Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid, and instil 1 to 2 drops into each affected eye. Blink gently afterwards and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any surface to prevent contamination. Use 2 to 4 times daily as needed.
What is the correct dose of loratadine for adults and children?
Adults and children aged 12 years and over should take one 10mg loratadine tablet once daily. Children aged 2 to 12 years who weigh more than 30kg can also take one 10mg tablet once daily, while those weighing 30kg or less are usually better suited to a 5mg loratadine syrup formulation. Never exceed the recommended daily dose.
What is the best time of day to take loratadine hayfever tablets?
Loratadine can be taken at any time of day, with or without food, and it works for a full 24 hours. Many people find it helpful to take it in the morning before heading outdoors during high pollen periods. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain consistent levels in your system for ongoing symptom control.
Can I take loratadine every day throughout hayfever season?
Yes, loratadine is suitable for daily use throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on the pollen type. It does not lose effectiveness with regular use, unlike some older antihistamines. If your symptoms persist beyond the expected season or worsen significantly, speak to your GP for further assessment.
Who should not use this loratadine and Optrex bundle?
This bundle is not suitable for children under 2 years of age, or for anyone with a known allergy to loratadine or sodium cromoglicate. People with severe liver impairment should seek medical advice before using loratadine. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medicines that may interact, always check with your pharmacist first.
What are the common side effects of loratadine hayfever tablets?
The most commonly reported side effects of loratadine include headache, dry mouth, and fatigue. These are generally mild and tend to resolve without any treatment. Serious side effects such as a fast heartbeat or severe allergic reaction are rare, but if they occur you should stop taking the tablets and seek medical attention promptly.
How do I manage side effects from the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops?
A mild stinging or burning sensation immediately after instilling the drops is normal and usually passes within a few seconds. Temporary blurred vision can also occur, so avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears. If irritation persists or worsens, stop using the drops and consult your pharmacist or GP.
Can I use this bundle if I wear contact lenses?
You should remove soft contact lenses before instilling the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. The loratadine tablets are not affected by contact lens use. If you regularly wear lenses and suffer from allergic eye symptoms, it is worth discussing your options with an optometrist or pharmacist.
What happens if I miss a dose of loratadine?
If you forget to take your loratadine tablet, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case simply skip the missed dose. Never take two tablets at once to make up for a missed one. Missing an occasional dose is unlikely to cause a significant return of symptoms, but try to take it consistently for best results.
How does loratadine compare to cetirizine for hayfever?
Both loratadine and cetirizine are second-generation antihistamines and are effective for hayfever. Loratadine is generally considered to have a slightly lower risk of causing drowsiness in some individuals, while cetirizine may have a marginally faster onset of action for certain people. Individual responses vary, so if one does not suit you, your pharmacist can advise on alternatives.
How long can I use the Optrex Allergy Eye Drops for?
The Optrex Allergy Eye Drops can be used throughout the allergy season for ongoing symptom relief. Once opened, the bottle should be used within 28 days and then discarded, even if solution remains. If your eye symptoms do not improve after a few days of use, or if you develop pain, significant redness, or changes in vision, seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.
Are there any alternatives to this loratadine and Optrex bundle?
Yes — alternatives include other antihistamines such as cetirizine or fexofenadine for systemic symptoms, and different eye drop formulations for ocular symptoms. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are also recommended by the NHS for moderate to severe hayfever. You can explore a wider range of options in our eye care collection and allergy range.
What does the latest research say about loratadine for hayfever?
Loratadine has been extensively studied and remains one of the most widely recommended non-drowsy antihistamines for allergic rhinitis in clinical guidelines. The NHS and NICE both recognise it as a first-line treatment option for hayfever. Research continues to confirm its favourable safety profile and efficacy compared to first-generation antihistamines, particularly for daytime use when sedation is undesirable.
