Drug Name

Alavert (Loratadine)

Drug Uses

Alavert is used for relieving symptoms of seasonal allergies such as runny nose; sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; or itching of the nose and throat. It may also be used for other conditions determined by your doctor.

How Taken

Use Alavert as directed by your doctor.

• Take Alavert by mouth with food.
• Swallow whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Alavert.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Alavert is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Alavert and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Alavert at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Alavert out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Alavert if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Alavert.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important :

• Taking Alavert in high doses may cause drowsiness. Do not take more than the recommended dose without checking with your doctor.
• Alavert may interfere with skin allergy tests. If you are scheduled for a skin test, talk to your doctor. You may need to stop taking Alavert for a few days before the tests.
• Alavert has sodium in it. If you are on a low sodium diet, include this when you count your daily intake of sodium.
• Alavert should not be used in children younger than 2 years old without checking with the child's doctor; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Alavert while you are pregnant. Alavert is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Alavert, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• fast or uneven heart rate;
• feeling like you might pass out;
• jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes); or
• seizures (convulsions).

Less serious side effects may include:

• headache;
• nervousness;
• feeling tired or drowsy;
• stomach pain, diarrhea;
• dry mouth, sore throat hoarseness;
• eye redness, blurred vision;
• nosebleed; or
• skin rash.

More Information

Alavert is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.