From the Guidelines
Yes, an overdose can occur with Claritin (Loratadine), but it is considered to have a good safety profile when used at recommended doses, especially compared to first-generation antihistamines 1.
Key Points
- Sedative properties: Loratadine does not cause sedation at recommended doses, but may cause sedation at doses exceeding the recommended dose 1.
- Overdose risk: While the risk of overdose is present, it is generally considered low when used as directed 1.
- Recommended use: Claritin is recommended for use in adults and children over 2 years of age, with a maximum daily dose of 10mg 1.
- Important considerations: Patients with low body mass may be at increased risk of sedation and overdose due to elevated dosage levels (on a milligram per kilogram basis) 1.
Evidence Summary
The evidence suggests that while an overdose can occur with Claritin, it is generally considered safe when used at recommended doses. Second-generation antihistamines like loratadine have a better safety profile compared to first-generation antihistamines, with a lower risk of sedation and overdose 1. However, it is still important to use the medication as directed and follow the recommended dosage to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
- Yes, an overdose can occur with Claritin (Loratadine) as indicated by the warning to get medical help in case of overdose 2.
- If an overdose is suspected, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately.
From the Research
Overdose Risk with Claritin (Loratadine)
- An overdose can occur with Claritin (Loratadine), as evidenced by a case report of a 6-year-old child who intentionally ingested 300 mg of loratadine, resulting in minor elevation of blood pressure and heart rate 3.
- The study suggests that high-dose loratadine exposures can be managed with supportive care, but further studies are needed to establish a minimum toxic dose 3.
- Other studies have reported that loratadine is generally well-tolerated and has a low incidence of sedation and other adverse effects 4, 5, 6.
- However, in cases of overdose, particularly with large amounts (approximately >3 to 4 times the normal therapeutic daily dose), medical attention is recommended, and patients should be monitored for 2 to 3 hours after ingestion 7.
Management of Overdose
- There is no specific antidote for antihistamine overdose, and treatment is supportive, particularly for ingestions of first-generation compounds 7.
- Ingestion of excessive doses of loratadine, a third-generation antihistamine, may usually be adequately managed at home, but patients ingesting large amounts should receive medical attention 7.
- Patients ingesting cetirizine, another third-generation antihistamine, should be advised about the potential for sedation 7.
Safety Profile of Loratadine
- Loratadine has been shown to be efficacious with few adverse events, including no clinically relevant cytochrome P450 mediated metabolic-based drug-drug interactions or QT interval prolongation/cardiac dysrhythmias 4, 7, 6.
- The safety profile of loratadine is improved compared to older antihistamines, making it a useful addition to the treatment of patients with allergic diseases 5, 6.