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Loratadine
Hay fever and other allergies, and itchy hives.
General information only, not medical advice, and no doses. Read the leaflet in your pack and ask a pharmacist about your own situation, other medicines, pregnancy or any health condition.
At a glance
| Generic name | Loratadine |
|---|---|
| Type | Non-drowsy antihistamine |
| Commonly used for | Hay fever and other allergies, and itchy hives. |
| With food? | Can be taken with or without food. |
| Alcohol | It causes little drowsiness, so it usually mixes with the occasional drink better than older antihistamines. |
| Timing | Once a day, at roughly the same time each day. |
Food and drink
Can be taken with or without food. It causes little drowsiness, so it usually mixes with the occasional drink better than older antihistamines.
When to take it
Once a day, at roughly the same time each day.
Good to know
If allergy symptoms do not settle after a couple of weeks, ask a pharmacist about other options. If anything about your own use is unclear, a pharmacist can advise for free.
Other common medicines
Paracetamol
Mild to moderate pain such as headache, toothache and muscle aches, and lowering a fever.
Ibuprofen
Pain, inflammation and fever — for example period pain, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
Aspirin
Pain and fever at normal doses; a low daily dose is used, only on medical advice, to reduce clotting risk.
Naproxen
Pain and inflammation, including muscle and joint pain and period pain; it is longer-acting than ibuprofen.
Omeprazole
Heartburn, acid reflux and stomach or gut ulcers.
Cetirizine
Hay fever, allergies and hives.
Source: General medicine information paraphrased from standard patient-information-leaflet guidance. Always read the leaflet in your pack. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What is Loratadine used for?
Hay fever and other allergies, and itchy hives.
Can I drink alcohol with Loratadine?
It causes little drowsiness, so it usually mixes with the occasional drink better than older antihistamines.
Should I take Loratadine with food?
Can be taken with or without food.
See the pattern over time
TempoLife logs symptoms, food and sleep, so you can bring a clear picture to your pharmacist or doctor.