Wal-itin Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

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# Wal-itin

Generic name: loratadine [ lor-AT-a-deen ]
Brand names: Alavert, Claritin, Claritin Reditab, ohm Allergy Relief, Tavist ND, Wal-itin
Drug class: Antihistamines

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 13, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is Wal-itin?

Wal-itin is an antihistamine that is used to treat symptoms of hay fever or other allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and itching in your nose or throat.

Wal-itin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

## Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

## Before taking this medicine

You should not use Wal-itin if you are allergic to Wal-itin.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:

- kidney disease; or

- liver disease.

The disintegrating tablet may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.

## How should I take Wal-itin?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or allergy medicine is only for short-term use.

Wal-itin is usually taken once per day.

Swallow the regular tablet whole.

Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Measure liquid medicine with the supplied syringe or a dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

A child's dose is based on age and some forms of loratadine are not for use in children younger than 6 years old. Carefully follow the dosing instructions provided with this medicine.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Detailed Wal-itin dosage information

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Wal-itin is used when needed. Do not use Wal-itin more than once in a 24-hour period. Do not use two doses at one time.

## What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

## What should I avoid while taking Wal-itin?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

## Wal-itin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of Wal-itin may include:

- headache; or

- feeling tired or drowsy.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Wal-itin side effects (more detail)

## What other drugs will affect Wal-itin?

Other drugs may affect Wal-itin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Wal-itin drug interactions (more detail)

## Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

## Popular FAQ

## Does loratadine make you sleepy?

Loratadine does not usually cause drowsiness and is considered a non-sedating antihistamine. However, some people may get sleepy so use caution before driving, operating machinery or performing other hazardous tasks until you know how loratadine affects you.

## Does loratadine raise blood pressure?

Loratadine (brand example: Claritin), an over-the-counter (OTC) non-sedating antihistamine, does not usually increase blood pressure when used alone as a single ingredient. Some OTC combination products do contain loratadine plus the decongestant pseudoephedrine (brand example: Claritin-D), which can raise your blood pressure. In the US, Claritin-D and the generic are normally kept behind the pharmacy counter. If you have high blood pressure, are being treated for high blood pressure, or have concerns about your blood pressure, ask your doctor before you use pseudoephedrine in any form.

## How long does loratadine take to work?

Loratadine fully works within one hour after you take it and its effect should last for 24 hours. Your symptoms should start to improve in about 20 minutes. You only have to take loratadine once a day. Loratadine is an effective over-the-counter, non-sedating antihistamine used to treat sneezing, runny nose or watery eyes due to a cold or allergy, skin hives and itching.

Can you give loratadine to dogs?

Yes, you can give loratadine to dogs, it is usually well tolerated and is unlikely to produce side effects such as drowsiness that tend to happen with some of the older antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (also known as Benadryl). The human form of loratadine is the same as the form administered to dogs and it can be purchased at any drug store or grocery store. Continue reading

### More FAQ

- Why do you take Claritin with Neulasta?
- Can you take 10mg of loratadine twice a day?
- Can you take antihistamines when pregnant?

## More about Wal-itin (loratadine)

- Check interactions
- Reviews (2)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: antihistamines
- Breastfeeding
- En español

### Patient resources

#### Other brands

Claritin, Alavert, Claritin Reditabs, Children's Claritin Allergy, ... +2 more

### Professional resources

- Prescribing Information

### Related treatment guides

- Allergic Rhinitis
- Urticaria

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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