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Can You Mix Alcohol with Loratadine?

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You should avoid mixing alcohol with Loratadine.
Although it’s classified as a non-drowsy hay fever medicine, there is a possibility that you could experience side effects, including drowsiness, which can be exacerbated by alcohol.
This article will help you to understand the side effects, potential risks, and how to use Loratadine safely when treating allergies.

 

Key Findings: Loratadine and Alcohol

  • Alcohol can increase the risk of sedative effects such as drowsiness and confusion  
  • Loratadine may become less effective in blocking the effects of histamine if mixed with alcohol  
  • You should seek medical advice if you plan on drinking alcohol whilst using a hay fever treatment 

Can You Drink Alcohol With Loratadine?

The latest medical advice from the NHS states you should not drink alcohol with Loratadine. This is because some people can still feel sleepy after taking it. In fact, it is the most common side effect, with more than 1 in 100 people affected.  

Loratadine is the same active ingredient found in the branded allergy medicine, Claritin. Although it is a second-generation histamine and classed as a non-drowsy medicine, drowsiness can be worsened when combined with alcohol because of its sedative effect.

What are the risks of mixing alcohol and loratadine? 

Your ability to make decisions and alertness may be compromised if you mix alcohol with Loratadine. Drowsiness can put you at higher risk of accidents, as well as affect your day-to-day activities.  

It may not work as effectively, too. This means that your symptoms could not improve or take far longer to do so after taking Loratadine.  

Mixing alcohol with loratadine may pose long-term risks. The liver is key when it comes to processing both alcohol and loratadine. Chronic alcohol consumption can elevate the risk of liver damage and affect the metabolism of Loratadine, so it's important to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any liver issues. 

How to use Loratadine Safely

The typical dosage is one tablet, taken daily. It's important to always follow your doctors' instructions to ensure you are using Loratadine safely.  

You should be aware of possible interactions and warnings because this can affect whether Loratadine is suitable or not for you. The most up-to-date advice can be found on the patient information leaflet.  

Here are some key things to know when it comes to how to use Loratadine safely: 

  • Do not take Loratadine if you are due to have a skin allergy test. 
  • If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver problems, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. 
  • It is safe to take with most medicines; however, there are some exceptions, including amiodarone, cimetidine, erythromycin, and ketoconazole. Always refer to the patient information leaflet for the full listing before taking Loratadine. 

Next Steps of Taking Loratadine

Loratadine for hay fever is available to buy online from Chemist Click, a trusted UK pharmacy. Our expert team of friendly pharmacists can help you find the best hay fever treatment for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a strong antihistamine or a fast-acting nasal spray, our selection of safe and effective hay fever medications can be delivered on our next-day delivery service.  

FAQs

How Long After Taking Antihistamines can I Drink?

Avoid mixing alcohol and antihistamines, especially those that have drowsy side effects. If you do drink alcohol, you should wait at least four hours after taking antihistamines which cause drowsiness.  

How Long After Taking Loratadine can I Drink Alcohol?

It’s best not to drink after taking Loratadine. It is a non-drowsy hay fever tablet; however, drowsiness is listed as a side effect, which can be intensified by alcohol.  

Can you Take Allergy Medicine With Alcohol?

No, it can be dangerous to mix allergy medicine with alcohol because it can have a sedative effect.  

Sources


Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.

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