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Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs (Brands May Vary)
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Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs (Brands May Vary)

Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs (Brands May Vary)

$1.40

Original: $3.99

-65%
Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs (Brands May Vary)

$3.99

$1.40

The Story

 

Are Loratadine 10mg Tablets Right for Your Hayfever?

 

Hayfever affects roughly one in five people in the UK, and for many, symptoms can be relentless from spring right through to early autumn. Sneezing, itchy eyes, a blocked nose — it all adds up. If you're looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to stay on top of your symptoms, this value bundle from Cured Pharmacy gives you three packs of 30 tablets, totalling 90 tablets, for just £3.99. That's a full season's supply at a fraction of the usual cost. You can browse the full range of allergy and hay fever treatments on our site if you'd like to compare your options.

Each tablet contains 10mg of loratadine, a well-established second-generation antihistamine licensed in the UK for the relief of hayfever and other allergic conditions. It's widely recommended by pharmacists and GPs alike, and it's been available over the counter for many years. The loratadine 10mg tablets in this bundle are suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over, making them a practical household staple during allergy season.

 

How Do Loratadine 10mg Tablets Work Against Allergies?

 

When your body encounters an allergen — pollen, dust mites, pet dander — it releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine binds to receptors throughout the body and triggers the familiar cascade of allergy symptoms. Loratadine works by blocking those receptors before histamine can act.

  • Loratadine selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors.
  • It prevents histamine from binding and triggering sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion.
  • Because it has low penetration of the blood-brain barrier, it causes significantly less sedation than older antihistamines.
  • It begins to take effect within one to three hours of taking a dose.
  • A single 10mg dose provides up to 24 hours of symptom relief.

 

Who Is Loratadine Suitable For?

 

Loratadine is one of the most widely used antihistamines in the UK precisely because it suits a broad range of people. It's particularly useful if you need to stay alert during the day — driving, working, or studying — since it's far less likely to cause drowsiness than first-generation options like chlorphenamine.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with hayfever or allergic rhinitis.
  • Children aged 6 and over weighing more than 30kg.
  • People with allergic skin conditions such as urticaria (hives).
  • Those who need to remain alert and cannot risk sedation from their antihistamine.

It is not suitable for everyone. People with severe liver impairment should avoid loratadine, and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should speak to a pharmacist or GP before use.

 

How Does Loratadine Compare to Other Antihistamines?

 

Feature Loratadine 10mg Cetirizine 10mg Chlorphenamine 4mg
Generation Second-generation Second-generation First-generation
Drowsiness risk Very low Low (slightly higher than loratadine) High
Dosing frequency Once daily Once daily Up to 4 times daily
Suitable for children 6+ Yes (over 30kg) Yes (over 30kg) Yes (with caution)

 

How Should You Store Loratadine Tablets and Are They Safe Long-Term?

 

Store your loratadine 10mg tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Because this bundle contains three packs, it's worth checking the expiry dates on all three before purchase — though for most people buying ahead of hayfever season, this won't be an issue.

Loratadine is generally considered safe for seasonal use over several weeks. If you find yourself needing it year-round for perennial allergic rhinitis or chronic urticaria, it's worth having a conversation with your GP to rule out any underlying causes. If you also suffer from eye-related allergy symptoms, you might find it helpful to explore our eye care range for complementary relief options.

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.

Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs specifications
Treatment category Allergy and hayfever relief
Active ingredient Loratadine 10mg
Mechanism of action Selective peripheral H1 histamine receptor antagonist
Drug class Second-generation antihistamine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral
Strengths 10mg
Pack sizes 3 x 30 tablets (90 tablets total)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 and over (over 30kg)
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Effective Within 1–3 hours; lasts up to 24 hours

Specifications of Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs

 

What Is Loratadine and What Is It Used For?

 

Loratadine is a second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conditions. It is licensed in the UK for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (including hayfever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It works by blocking the action of histamine, the chemical your immune system releases in response to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and animal dander.

Common conditions it treats include:

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever) — sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy eyes.
  • Perennial allergic rhinitis — year-round symptoms triggered by dust mites or pet hair.
  • Urticaria (hives) — itchy, raised welts on the skin caused by an allergic reaction.
  • Allergic conjunctivitis — itchy, watery, red eyes associated with allergies.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Loratadine Tablets?

 

Before taking loratadine, it's important to check whether it's appropriate for you. Read the following carefully.

Do not take loratadine if you:

  • Are allergic to loratadine or any of the other ingredients in the tablet.
  • Have severe liver impairment (hepatic failure).
  • Are under 6 years of age (tablets are not suitable; use a syrup formulation).
  • Weigh less than 30kg (children should use a lower-dose formulation).

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking loratadine if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding — loratadine passes into breast milk in small amounts.
  • Have kidney or liver problems.
  • Are taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies.

Known drug interactions — loratadine may interact with:

  • Ketoconazole (antifungal) — may increase loratadine blood levels.
  • Erythromycin (antibiotic) — may increase loratadine blood levels.
  • Cimetidine (for indigestion) — may increase loratadine blood levels.
  • Alcohol — may enhance any sedative effect, though this is generally mild with loratadine.

 

How Should You Take Loratadine 10mg Tablets?

 

Always take loratadine exactly as directed on the packaging or as advised by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Take one 10mg tablet by mouth.
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
  3. Take once daily — you do not need to take it with food, but you can if you prefer.
  4. Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent symptom control.
  5. Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Hayfever / allergic rhinitis Adults and children 6+ (over 30kg) 10mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Urticaria (hives) Adults and children 6+ (over 30kg) 10mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Children under 30kg or under 6 years Not applicable for tablets Use syrup formulation As directed by GP

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Loratadine?

 

Like all medicines, loratadine can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Mild drowsiness (less common than with first-generation antihistamines)

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Nervousness or agitation (particularly in children)
  • Palpitations
  • Skin rash
  • Dizziness

If you experience a serious allergic reaction — including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash — stop taking loratadine immediately and seek urgent medical attention. If you're also managing skin-related allergy symptoms, our skin care range includes products that may help soothe irritated or reactive skin.

 

How Should You Store Loratadine Tablets?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy for safe disposal.

If you suffer from both hayfever and cold-like symptoms, it may be worth exploring our ear, nose and throat range for additional nasal or throat relief products that can be used alongside loratadine.

References

  1. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/loratadine/
  2. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
  3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antihistamines/
  4. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
  5. 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 loratadine 10mg tablets online in the UK?

You can buy loratadine 10mg tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. This value bundle gives you 90 tablets across three packs for just £3.99, making it one of the most cost-effective options available. You can also browse the full allergy and hay fever collection for additional products to manage your symptoms.

How does loratadine work in the body?

Loratadine is a selective H1 histamine receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks the receptors that histamine would normally bind to during an allergic reaction. By preventing histamine from acting, it stops the chain of events that causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose, and watery eyes. Because it has low penetration of the blood-brain barrier, it causes far less drowsiness than older antihistamines like chlorphenamine.

How do I take loratadine 10mg tablets step by step?
  1. Take one 10mg tablet once daily.
  2. Swallow whole with a full glass of water.
  3. You can take it with or without food.
  4. Try to take it at the same time each day.
  5. Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours.

If symptoms do not improve after a few days, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What is the best time of day to take loratadine?

There is no strict requirement on timing, but many people find taking loratadine in the morning works well — particularly if hayfever symptoms tend to peak during the day when pollen counts are highest. Because it lasts up to 24 hours, a single morning dose should provide coverage throughout the day and into the evening. Consistency matters more than the specific time, so pick a time you can stick to daily.

Is loratadine really non-drowsy?

Yes, loratadine is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine and is significantly less sedating than first-generation antihistamines. Clinical studies have shown it does not impair driving performance or cognitive function at the standard 10mg dose in most people. However, a small number of individuals may still experience mild tiredness, so it's worth monitoring how you feel when you first start taking it.

Can children take loratadine 10mg tablets?

Loratadine 10mg tablets are suitable for children aged 6 and over who weigh more than 30kg. Children under 6 years old, or those weighing 30kg or less, should use a loratadine oral solution (syrup) at a lower dose as directed by a GP or pharmacist. Always check the packaging and consult a healthcare professional before giving any medicine to a child.

What happens if I miss a dose of loratadine?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed one entirely. Never take two tablets at once to compensate for a missed dose. Missing a single dose is unlikely to cause a significant return of symptoms, but try to get back on track the following day.

What are the side effects of loratadine 10mg?

Most people tolerate loratadine well. The most commonly reported side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Mild drowsiness

Less commonly, some people experience nausea, dizziness, or palpitations. If you develop a severe allergic reaction — such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing — stop taking the tablet and seek urgent medical help immediately.

Who should not take loratadine tablets?

Loratadine is not suitable for people with severe liver impairment, those allergic to loratadine or any tablet ingredient, or children under 6 years old. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medicines such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, or cimetidine, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use. People with kidney problems should also seek advice before starting loratadine.

What are the alternatives to loratadine for hayfever?

The main over-the-counter alternatives to loratadine are cetirizine 10mg and fexofenadine 120mg — both second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamines available without a prescription in the UK. Cetirizine is similarly priced and widely available, while fexofenadine is sometimes preferred by people who find cetirizine slightly more sedating. Your pharmacist can help you decide which is most appropriate for your symptoms and lifestyle.

How long can you take loratadine for?

Loratadine can be taken throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on the pollen type. For perennial allergies, some people take it year-round under GP guidance. If you've been taking it for more than a few weeks without adequate symptom control, it's worth speaking to your GP to review your treatment plan.

Can I take loratadine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The NHS advises that loratadine is generally considered one of the safer antihistamine options during pregnancy, but you should always consult your GP or midwife before taking any medicine while pregnant. Loratadine does pass into breast milk in small amounts, so breastfeeding mothers should seek medical advice before use. Your healthcare provider can weigh up the benefits and risks for your individual situation.

Can I drink alcohol while taking loratadine?

Loratadine has a very low sedative profile, but alcohol can enhance any drowsiness effect, even if mild. The NHS advises caution when combining antihistamines with alcohol. It's sensible to avoid drinking heavily while taking loratadine, particularly if you need to drive or operate machinery.

Does loratadine help with itchy eyes caused by hayfever?

Yes, loratadine can help relieve itchy, watery eyes associated with allergic conjunctivitis as part of hayfever. However, for more pronounced eye symptoms, antihistamine eye drops may provide faster, more targeted relief. You can explore our eye care range for allergy-specific eye drops that can be used alongside loratadine tablets.

What are the latest findings on loratadine use for allergies?

Loratadine remains one of the most studied and widely recommended antihistamines globally. Current NHS and NICE guidance continues to support its use as a first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis and urticaria in adults and children. Research consistently confirms its favourable safety profile, particularly its low sedation risk compared to first-generation antihistamines, making it a reliable long-term option for seasonal allergy management.

Description

 

Are Loratadine 10mg Tablets Right for Your Hayfever?

 

Hayfever affects roughly one in five people in the UK, and for many, symptoms can be relentless from spring right through to early autumn. Sneezing, itchy eyes, a blocked nose — it all adds up. If you're looking for a reliable, cost-effective way to stay on top of your symptoms, this value bundle from Cured Pharmacy gives you three packs of 30 tablets, totalling 90 tablets, for just £3.99. That's a full season's supply at a fraction of the usual cost. You can browse the full range of allergy and hay fever treatments on our site if you'd like to compare your options.

Each tablet contains 10mg of loratadine, a well-established second-generation antihistamine licensed in the UK for the relief of hayfever and other allergic conditions. It's widely recommended by pharmacists and GPs alike, and it's been available over the counter for many years. The loratadine 10mg tablets in this bundle are suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over, making them a practical household staple during allergy season.

 

How Do Loratadine 10mg Tablets Work Against Allergies?

 

When your body encounters an allergen — pollen, dust mites, pet dander — it releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine binds to receptors throughout the body and triggers the familiar cascade of allergy symptoms. Loratadine works by blocking those receptors before histamine can act.

  • Loratadine selectively blocks peripheral H1 histamine receptors.
  • It prevents histamine from binding and triggering sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion.
  • Because it has low penetration of the blood-brain barrier, it causes significantly less sedation than older antihistamines.
  • It begins to take effect within one to three hours of taking a dose.
  • A single 10mg dose provides up to 24 hours of symptom relief.

 

Who Is Loratadine Suitable For?

 

Loratadine is one of the most widely used antihistamines in the UK precisely because it suits a broad range of people. It's particularly useful if you need to stay alert during the day — driving, working, or studying — since it's far less likely to cause drowsiness than first-generation options like chlorphenamine.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with hayfever or allergic rhinitis.
  • Children aged 6 and over weighing more than 30kg.
  • People with allergic skin conditions such as urticaria (hives).
  • Those who need to remain alert and cannot risk sedation from their antihistamine.

It is not suitable for everyone. People with severe liver impairment should avoid loratadine, and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should speak to a pharmacist or GP before use.

 

How Does Loratadine Compare to Other Antihistamines?

 

Feature Loratadine 10mg Cetirizine 10mg Chlorphenamine 4mg
Generation Second-generation Second-generation First-generation
Drowsiness risk Very low Low (slightly higher than loratadine) High
Dosing frequency Once daily Once daily Up to 4 times daily
Suitable for children 6+ Yes (over 30kg) Yes (over 30kg) Yes (with caution)

 

How Should You Store Loratadine Tablets and Are They Safe Long-Term?

 

Store your loratadine 10mg tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Because this bundle contains three packs, it's worth checking the expiry dates on all three before purchase — though for most people buying ahead of hayfever season, this won't be an issue.

Loratadine is generally considered safe for seasonal use over several weeks. If you find yourself needing it year-round for perennial allergic rhinitis or chronic urticaria, it's worth having a conversation with your GP to rule out any underlying causes. If you also suffer from eye-related allergy symptoms, you might find it helpful to explore our eye care range for complementary relief options.

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.

Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs specifications
Treatment category Allergy and hayfever relief
Active ingredient Loratadine 10mg
Mechanism of action Selective peripheral H1 histamine receptor antagonist
Drug class Second-generation antihistamine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral
Strengths 10mg
Pack sizes 3 x 30 tablets (90 tablets total)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 and over (over 30kg)
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Effective Within 1–3 hours; lasts up to 24 hours

Specifications of Hayfever and Allergy Relief Loratadine 10mg 30 Tablets x 3 packs

 

What Is Loratadine and What Is It Used For?

 

Loratadine is a second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conditions. It is licensed in the UK for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (including hayfever) and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It works by blocking the action of histamine, the chemical your immune system releases in response to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and animal dander.

Common conditions it treats include:

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hayfever) — sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy eyes.
  • Perennial allergic rhinitis — year-round symptoms triggered by dust mites or pet hair.
  • Urticaria (hives) — itchy, raised welts on the skin caused by an allergic reaction.
  • Allergic conjunctivitis — itchy, watery, red eyes associated with allergies.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Loratadine Tablets?

 

Before taking loratadine, it's important to check whether it's appropriate for you. Read the following carefully.

Do not take loratadine if you:

  • Are allergic to loratadine or any of the other ingredients in the tablet.
  • Have severe liver impairment (hepatic failure).
  • Are under 6 years of age (tablets are not suitable; use a syrup formulation).
  • Weigh less than 30kg (children should use a lower-dose formulation).

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking loratadine if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding — loratadine passes into breast milk in small amounts.
  • Have kidney or liver problems.
  • Are taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies.

Known drug interactions — loratadine may interact with:

  • Ketoconazole (antifungal) — may increase loratadine blood levels.
  • Erythromycin (antibiotic) — may increase loratadine blood levels.
  • Cimetidine (for indigestion) — may increase loratadine blood levels.
  • Alcohol — may enhance any sedative effect, though this is generally mild with loratadine.

 

How Should You Take Loratadine 10mg Tablets?

 

Always take loratadine exactly as directed on the packaging or as advised by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

  1. Take one 10mg tablet by mouth.
  2. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
  3. Take once daily — you do not need to take it with food, but you can if you prefer.
  4. Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent symptom control.
  5. Do not take more than one tablet in any 24-hour period.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Hayfever / allergic rhinitis Adults and children 6+ (over 30kg) 10mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Urticaria (hives) Adults and children 6+ (over 30kg) 10mg (1 tablet) Once daily
Children under 30kg or under 6 years Not applicable for tablets Use syrup formulation As directed by GP

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Loratadine?

 

Like all medicines, loratadine can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Mild drowsiness (less common than with first-generation antihistamines)

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Nervousness or agitation (particularly in children)
  • Palpitations
  • Skin rash
  • Dizziness

If you experience a serious allergic reaction — including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash — stop taking loratadine immediately and seek urgent medical attention. If you're also managing skin-related allergy symptoms, our skin care range includes products that may help soothe irritated or reactive skin.

 

How Should You Store Loratadine Tablets?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy for safe disposal.

If you suffer from both hayfever and cold-like symptoms, it may be worth exploring our ear, nose and throat range for additional nasal or throat relief products that can be used alongside loratadine.

References

  1. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/loratadine/
  2. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/
  3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antihistamines/
  4. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/allergies/
  5. 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 loratadine 10mg tablets online in the UK?

You can buy loratadine 10mg tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. This value bundle gives you 90 tablets across three packs for just £3.99, making it one of the most cost-effective options available. You can also browse the full allergy and hay fever collection for additional products to manage your symptoms.

How does loratadine work in the body?

Loratadine is a selective H1 histamine receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks the receptors that histamine would normally bind to during an allergic reaction. By preventing histamine from acting, it stops the chain of events that causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose, and watery eyes. Because it has low penetration of the blood-brain barrier, it causes far less drowsiness than older antihistamines like chlorphenamine.

How do I take loratadine 10mg tablets step by step?
  1. Take one 10mg tablet once daily.
  2. Swallow whole with a full glass of water.
  3. You can take it with or without food.
  4. Try to take it at the same time each day.
  5. Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours.

If symptoms do not improve after a few days, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What is the best time of day to take loratadine?

There is no strict requirement on timing, but many people find taking loratadine in the morning works well — particularly if hayfever symptoms tend to peak during the day when pollen counts are highest. Because it lasts up to 24 hours, a single morning dose should provide coverage throughout the day and into the evening. Consistency matters more than the specific time, so pick a time you can stick to daily.

Is loratadine really non-drowsy?

Yes, loratadine is classified as a non-drowsy antihistamine and is significantly less sedating than first-generation antihistamines. Clinical studies have shown it does not impair driving performance or cognitive function at the standard 10mg dose in most people. However, a small number of individuals may still experience mild tiredness, so it's worth monitoring how you feel when you first start taking it.

Can children take loratadine 10mg tablets?

Loratadine 10mg tablets are suitable for children aged 6 and over who weigh more than 30kg. Children under 6 years old, or those weighing 30kg or less, should use a loratadine oral solution (syrup) at a lower dose as directed by a GP or pharmacist. Always check the packaging and consult a healthcare professional before giving any medicine to a child.

What happens if I miss a dose of loratadine?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed one entirely. Never take two tablets at once to compensate for a missed dose. Missing a single dose is unlikely to cause a significant return of symptoms, but try to get back on track the following day.

What are the side effects of loratadine 10mg?

Most people tolerate loratadine well. The most commonly reported side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Mild drowsiness

Less commonly, some people experience nausea, dizziness, or palpitations. If you develop a severe allergic reaction — such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing — stop taking the tablet and seek urgent medical help immediately.

Who should not take loratadine tablets?

Loratadine is not suitable for people with severe liver impairment, those allergic to loratadine or any tablet ingredient, or children under 6 years old. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medicines such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, or cimetidine, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use. People with kidney problems should also seek advice before starting loratadine.

What are the alternatives to loratadine for hayfever?

The main over-the-counter alternatives to loratadine are cetirizine 10mg and fexofenadine 120mg — both second-generation, non-drowsy antihistamines available without a prescription in the UK. Cetirizine is similarly priced and widely available, while fexofenadine is sometimes preferred by people who find cetirizine slightly more sedating. Your pharmacist can help you decide which is most appropriate for your symptoms and lifestyle.

How long can you take loratadine for?

Loratadine can be taken throughout the hayfever season, which in the UK typically runs from late March to September depending on the pollen type. For perennial allergies, some people take it year-round under GP guidance. If you've been taking it for more than a few weeks without adequate symptom control, it's worth speaking to your GP to review your treatment plan.

Can I take loratadine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The NHS advises that loratadine is generally considered one of the safer antihistamine options during pregnancy, but you should always consult your GP or midwife before taking any medicine while pregnant. Loratadine does pass into breast milk in small amounts, so breastfeeding mothers should seek medical advice before use. Your healthcare provider can weigh up the benefits and risks for your individual situation.

Can I drink alcohol while taking loratadine?

Loratadine has a very low sedative profile, but alcohol can enhance any drowsiness effect, even if mild. The NHS advises caution when combining antihistamines with alcohol. It's sensible to avoid drinking heavily while taking loratadine, particularly if you need to drive or operate machinery.

Does loratadine help with itchy eyes caused by hayfever?

Yes, loratadine can help relieve itchy, watery eyes associated with allergic conjunctivitis as part of hayfever. However, for more pronounced eye symptoms, antihistamine eye drops may provide faster, more targeted relief. You can explore our eye care range for allergy-specific eye drops that can be used alongside loratadine tablets.

What are the latest findings on loratadine use for allergies?

Loratadine remains one of the most studied and widely recommended antihistamines globally. Current NHS and NICE guidance continues to support its use as a first-line treatment for allergic rhinitis and urticaria in adults and children. Research consistently confirms its favourable safety profile, particularly its low sedation risk compared to first-generation antihistamines, making it a reliable long-term option for seasonal allergy management.