RINOLAN

This medicine contains the active ingredient loratadine, which belongs to a group of medicines called antihistamines. These medicines reduce the effects of histamine (a chemical produced in our body after the contact with pollen or other substances) by disabling histamine receptors to bind with histamine. If this binding is not disabled, we have symptoms such as itching, sneezing, wet eyes, runny nose. Loratadine is used to help us ease these symptoms of allergies, as well as symptoms of nettle rash (redness, itching).

Is Loratadine suitable for me?

Loratadine is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to loratadine  or to other ingredients of this medicine
• if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• if it is meant for a child under 2 years of age

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have porphyria (this is a rare inherited blood disorder)
• are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding
• have liver disease

Loratadine interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Loratadine?

This medicine is available in form of syrup, tablet and orodispersible tablet.

You should take loratadine exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• The usual dose for tablet is one tablet taken once a day.
• The usual dose for syrup is 2 x 5 ml spoonfuls taken once a day. The maximum dose for children under the age of 12 is 1 x 5 ml spoonful taken once a day.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Loratadine side effects?

Like all medicines loratadine can cause side effects, including:

Common:

• drowsiness
• headache
• increased appetite
• difficulty sleeping
• nervousness
• tiredness

Very rare:

• severe allergic reaction
• dizziness
• convulsion
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• nausea
• dry mouth
• upset stomach
• liver problems
• hair loss
• rash

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.