From the FDA Drug Label
DIRECTIONS •use only with enclosed dosing cup adults and children 6 years and over 2 teaspoonfuls (tsp) daily; do not take more than 2 teaspoonfuls (tsp) in 24 hours children 2 to under 6 years of age 1 teaspoonful (tsp) daily; do not take more than 1 teaspoonful (tsp) in 24 hours ACTIVE INGREDIENT(S) (in each 5 mL teaspoonful) Loratadine USP, 5mg
The recommended dose of loratadine is:
- 2 teaspoonfuls (10mg) daily for adults and children 6 years and over
- 1 teaspoonful (5mg) daily for children 2 to under 6 years of age 1 1
From the Research
The recommended dose of loratadine is 10 mg once daily for adults and children 6 years and older, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 2.
Key Considerations
- Children 2-5 years of age should take 5 mg (half the adult dose) once daily.
- Loratadine can be taken with or without food, and is typically taken in the morning since it provides 24-hour relief of allergy symptoms.
- For those with severe liver disease, a reduced dose of 10 mg every other day is recommended due to decreased metabolism of the medication.
Mechanism of Action
- Loratadine works by blocking histamine receptors, which reduces allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose without causing significant drowsiness compared to older antihistamines.
Efficacy and Onset of Action
- The medication typically begins working within 1-3 hours, with maximum effect after 8-12 hours, as shown in a comparative study with fluticasone propionate nasal spray 2.
- A single dose of loratadine-pseudoephedrine tablet has been shown to quickly and significantly improve nasal airflow after ragweed pollen challenge in an environmental exposure unit 2.
Important Notes
- Loratadine should not be taken more frequently than prescribed, as this won't improve symptom relief but may increase side effects.
- The most recent study 2 provides the strongest evidence for the recommended dose and efficacy of loratadine, prioritizing morbidity, mortality, and quality of life as the outcome.