What is the brand name for Loratadine?
The brand name for Loratadine is Claritin.
PTCE Top 200 · #105
Loratadine
Claritin
Loratadine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Claritin. It is an antihistamine (2nd generation) used to treat allergies. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Loratadine ranks #105 and is one of the most frequently tested respiratory/allergy medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Loratadine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Claritin |
| Drug class | Antihistamine (2nd generation) |
| Class group | Respiratory/Allergy |
| Common use | allergies |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Over-the-counter (OTC) |
What is Loratadine used for?
Second‑generation antihistamine used for allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria (hives).
What drug class is Loratadine?
Loratadine is an Antihistamine (2nd generation) in the Respiratory/Allergy group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Loratadine
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightFatigue
- arrow_rightSleepiness (usually mild)
- arrow_rightNausea
Major interactions
- arrow_rightKetoconazole, erythromycin, or cimetidine can increase loratadine levels (usually not clinically significant)
- arrow_rightAlcohol/sedatives may add drowsiness in sensitive patients
Is Loratadine a controlled substance?
No. Loratadine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Loratadine (PTCE mnemonic)
CLARI-tin keeps it CLEAR — lorata-DINE is the LEAST-sedating 2nd-gen H1 (vs Zyrtec). Once-daily, no anticholinergic SEs; hepatic clearance.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Loratadine is a low-sedation second-generation antihistamine — contrast with drowsy first-generation diphenhydramine. Claritin-D adds pseudoephedrine, which brings the PSE logbook rules.
Loratadine FAQ
What is Loratadine used for?
Loratadine is used to treat allergies. Second‑generation antihistamine used for allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria (hives).
What drug class is Loratadine?
Loratadine is an Antihistamine (2nd generation) (Respiratory/Allergy group).
Is Loratadine a controlled substance?
No. Loratadine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Respiratory/Allergy group
Drill Loratadine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).