Loratadine

Loratadine is a second-generation peripheral histamine H₁-receptors blocker used to treat allergies. In structure, it is closely related to tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine, and is distantly related to the atypical antipsychotic quetiapine.

Loratadine was discovered in 1981 and came to market in 1993. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medications needed in a basic health system. It is available as a generic drug and is marketed for its nonsedating properties. There is a version combined with pseudoephedrine, a decongestant; known as pseudoephedrine/loratadine.

Medical uses

Loratadine is indicated for the symptomatic relief of allergy such as hay fever (allergic rhinitis), urticaria (hives), chronic idiopathic urticaria, and other skin allergies. For allergic rhinitis (hay fever), loratadine is effective for both nasal and eye symptoms: sneezing, runny nose, itchy or burning eyes. Loratadine could be also used to treat mild to moderate pain from headaches.