I took loratadine for relief from seasonal allergies and it had no effect whatsoever on my symptoms. I spoke to 2 different pharmacies and one said it needed to build up in my system to be effective or in other words I needed to take it for several days before any symptom relief would take effect. The other pharmacist said it should be effective the first day I took it. Which is correct?
Loratadine - Why is it Not Working?
Question posted by ilvlife on 15 Sep 2009
Last updated on 25 March 2012
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Answers
Marvell
15 Sep 2009
For me personally Loratadine doesn't work whether I take it for a day or a couple of days. Cetirizine works almost immediately.
Sometimes I think some antihistamines don't work that well for some people.
Try cetirizine and see if you have any relief.
ilvlife
15 Sep 2009
Thanks for your help. Is cetirizine and over the counter medication and what would it be called?
Inactive
15 Sep 2009
It is generic for Zyrtec, cetirizine is the generic name. It worked better for me, Loratidine does nothing for my symptoms either. Dollar General Stores have it the cheapest where I live.
ilvlife
17 Sep 2009
Thank you so much! I will try it.
Jason1wang1
25 March 2012
I am a pharmacist, and generally loratadine does need time to build up in your system. The same also goes for cetirizine and fexofenadine, although some people do experience relief within hours of taking them. If you are not finding relief with any of these antihistamines within a few days, you may experience some relief by taking the cetirizine twice daily. If this does not help, you may consider switching to a more drowsy antihistamine like diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine.
Related topics
hay fever, loratadine, allergic rhinitis
Further information
- Loratadine uses and safety info
- Loratadine prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Loratadine (detailed)
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