Second-generation H1 antihistamine
Loratadine with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Loratadine (Loratadine). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Loratadine at 5mg, 10mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Second-generation H1 antihistamine agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Loratadine at 5mg, 10mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Loratadine, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Loratadine is co-administered. Adjusted 5mg, 10mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Loratadine during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Loratadine is metabolised and may need a temporary 5mg, 10mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Loratadine regimen.
Will antibiotics make Loratadine stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Loratadine efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Loratadine levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Loratadine
More on Loratadine
- With alcoholLoratadine and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Loratadine be taken with food?
- Side effectsLoratadine side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideLoratadine dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Loratadine start working?
- DurationHow long does Loratadine last?
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