Alavert
® (
loratadine) is an antihistamine medication available without a prescription. It is also available in combination with a decongestant
(see Alavert-D for more information). Compared to many non-prescription antihistamines, Alavert is much less likely to cause drowsiness.
Who Makes This Medication?
Alavert is made by Wyeth Consumer Healthcare.
Alavert is part of a class of drugs called antihistamines. Specifically, it is an H1 receptor antagonist. This means that it blocks a specific type of histamine receptor in the body known as H1 receptors. Because allergic reactions are partly caused by the release of histamine from certain cells in the body, this medication can help relieve or prevent
allergy symptoms.
When and How to Take Alavert
Some general considerations for those taking this drug include the following:
- Alavert comes in tablets or orally disintegrating tablets. It is usually taken by mouth once daily.
- You can take this medication with or without food. If Alavert bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- The orally disintegrating tablets dissolve rapidly on the tongue with no need for water. They are a good option for people who have trouble swallowing tablets.
- Try to take this medication at the same time each day to keep an even level in your blood.
- Some people need to take Alavert all year long, while others take it only during allergy season.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as directed by the package labeling. Please read the label closely.
For most people, there is only one standard recommended dose for Alavert, although a lower dosage may be recommended for some people with certain health problems. As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Just like any medicine, Alavert can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Some people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common. Of course, some "side effects," such as drowsiness, are not considered a side effect in certain situations, such as if you are taking the medication to fall asleep.
Common side effects of Alavert include but are not limited to:
(Click Alavert Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Liver disease, including liver failure, cirrhosis, or hepatitis
- Phenylketonuria
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Alavert may have overdose symptoms that include:
- Drowsiness
- A rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Headaches
- Feelings of a rapidly or forcefully beating heart (known as heart palpitations)
- Unusual body movements or muscle contractions.
If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Alavert Be Stored?
Alavert should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
For people who take this medication on a regular schedule (such as for
allergy treatment), if you do not take your Alavert as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
There are a few different forms of this medication, including:
- Alavert 10 mg orally disintegrating tablets (Citrus Burst, Bubble Gum, or Original Mint flavors)
- Alavert 10 mg tablets.
Generic Availability of Alavert
