Introduction
Contents
Claritin is a popular over-the-counter allergy medication that has been widely used since its introduction in the 1990s. It is a brand name for the drug loratadine, which belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ingredients in Claritin and how they work to relieve allergy symptoms.
What is Loratadine?
Loratadine is the active ingredient in Claritin. It is a second-generation antihistamine that works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that is released by the body in response to allergens. Histamine is responsible for causing many allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. By blocking histamine, loratadine helps to relieve these symptoms.
How does Loratadine Work?
Loratadine works by blocking the histamine H1 receptor, which is responsible for causing allergy symptoms. When histamine is released in response to an allergen, it binds to the H1 receptor, causing symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Loratadine blocks the H1 receptor, preventing histamine from binding to it and causing these symptoms.
Other Ingredients in Claritin
In addition to loratadine, Claritin also contains several inactive ingredients, which are listed on the label. These include:
– Corn starch
– Lactose monohydrate
– Magnesium stearate
– Pregelatinized starch
These ingredients are used to make the tablet form of Claritin and are not active ingredients that contribute to the medication’s effectiveness.
Side Effects of Claritin
Claritin is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects of Claritin include:
– Headache
– Dry mouth
– Fatigue
– Drowsiness
These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Claritin is a popular medication for relieving allergy symptoms. Its active ingredient, loratadine, works by blocking the histamine H1 receptor, which is responsible for causing allergy symptoms. Claritin also contains several inactive ingredients that are used to make the tablet form of the medication. While Claritin is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some people. If you experience any side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider.
