Oral Antihistamines · Second-generation oral antihistamine
Loratadine (Claritin): Non-Drowsy Generic Allergy Relief
Brand names: Claritin
Last reviewed June 8, 2026 · Medically reviewed by AllergyCenter
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Buy generic — OTC
Generic Loratadine 10 mg — 30 tablets
30 tablets (1-month supply)
- Same active ingredient as the brand
- Free shipping (3–5 business days)
- No prescription needed
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For prescription strengths, combination products, or higher doses.
- Switch to a more effective antihistamine (cetirizine, fexofenadine, levocetirizine)
- Add a nasal steroid spray (Flonase, Dymista)
- Combination plan for moderate-to-severe symptoms
Reviewed within 24 hours. Rx sent to your pharmacy or shipped to your door.
Loratadine — sold OTC as Claritin — is one of the most popular daily allergy medications. It blocks histamine to reduce sneezing, itchy nose, runny nose, itchy eyes, and hives without making most people drowsy.
Generic loratadine is identical to Claritin in active ingredient and effect, at a fraction of the price. Standard adult dose is 10 mg once daily.
Quick Facts
- Generic name
- Loratadine
- Brand names
- Claritin, Claritin-D (with pseudoephedrine), Alavert
- Drug class
- Second-generation H1 antihistamine
- Form
- Tablet, chewable, dissolving tablet, liquid
- OTC or Rx
- OTC
- Typical adult dose
- 10 mg once daily
- Age range
- 2+ (dose by age)
- Onset of action
- 1–3 hours
TL;DR — At a Glance
- ·Loratadine (Claritin) is a non-drowsy daily antihistamine for allergies and hives.
- ·One pill lasts 24 hours.
- ·Standard adult dose: 10 mg daily. Generally the least sedating of the OTC antihistamines.
- ·Common side effects: headache, dry mouth, occasional fatigue.
- ·May feel less potent than cetirizine for severe allergy symptoms — talk to an allergist if it isn’t enough.
Loratadine not cutting it?
If once-daily loratadine isn’t controlling your symptoms, an allergist can switch you to a stronger antihistamine, add a nasal spray, or build a combination plan.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a licensed healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without consulting a qualified provider.