Loratadine (Loratadine)
Overview of Loratadine
Loratadine is an oral non-sedating H 1-blocker that is similar in structure to cyproheptadine and azatadine, other H 1-blockers. It differs structurally from the other non-sedating H�-blockers terfenadine and astemizole. Due to poor penetration into the CNS and a low affinity for CNS H 1-receptors, CNS effects are less with it compared to the traditional H 1-blockers. It was approved by the FDA in April 1993 to relieve symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis. The mechanism of action is similar to other H1-blockers, it does not prevent the release of histamine but competes with free histamine for binding at the H1-receptor. This competitive antagonism blocks the effects of histamine on H1-receptors in the GI tract, uterus, large blood vessels, and bronchial muscle. It does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier, and it preferentially binds at H1-receptors in the periphery rather than within the brain, which probably accounts for some of its nonsedating character.
Indication of Loratadine
Loratadine is primarily indicated in conditions like Chronic urticaria, Hay fever, NSAID associated ulceration, Perennial rhinitis, Seasonal allergic rhinitis, Skin allergies, Symptomatic relief of allergy.
Contraindication of Loratadine
Loratadine is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects of Loratadine
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Loratadine, which give rise to further complications include Sinus tachycardia, Hair loss, Tinnitus, Hypotension, Insomnia, Blood dyscrasias, Tremors.,Loratadine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include QT prolongation. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Loratadine therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Loratadine include Hypotension, Nausea, Vomiting, Tachycardia, Convulsions, Drowsiness, Hallucinations, Ataxia, Hyperpyrexia, Tremor, Ventricular arrhythmias, Psychosis.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Loratadine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Drowsiness, Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Dry mouth, Pruritus, Sedation, Epigastric pain, gastric reflux.
Precautions of Loratadine
Loratadine should be used with caution in patients with history of heart disease, thyroid disease, kidney disease, liver disease, breathing problems or if have any allergy. It should be used with caution during pregnancy or lactation.