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is loratadine safe in pregnancy

Author

Sarah Parker

Updated on August 04, 2026

There is currently no concern that exposure to loratadine in early pregnancy is linked to birth defects in the baby. However, relatively small numbers of women taking loratadine have been studied and ongoing research is required to confirm this.

What is the safest antihistamine during pregnancy?

Many allergy medications really aren’t safe to take during pregnancy. But loratadine (found in Claritin®) and cetirizine (found in Zyrtec® and Alleroff®) are two over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine medications that doctors consider as being safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, Dr. Zanotti says.

Can I take loratadine in first trimester?

Many allergy drugs may be fine to keep taking during pregnancy, but have the discussion so you can have peace of mind. Oral antihistamines, like cetirizine (Zyrtec), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin) seem to be safe.

What is category B in pregnancy?

Category B

Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

What are the side effects of loratadine?

Loratadine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
headache.dry mouth.nosebleed.sore throat.mouth sores.difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.nervousness.weakness.

Can you take antihistamines when pregnant?

Most people can safely take antihistamines. But speak to a pharmacist or GP for advice if you: are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Is Claritin safe when pregnant?

Loratadine is considered safe to use during pregnancy as it is not associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Do loratadine make you sleepy?

Loratadine is classed as a non-drowsy antihistamine, but some people still find it makes them feel slightly sleepy. Children may have a headache and feel tired or nervous after taking loratadine. It’s best not to drink alcohol while you’re taking loratadine as it can make you feel sleepy.

What can a pregnant woman take for seasonal allergies?

Medications for seasonal allergies during pregnancy
cetirizine (Zyrtec)chlorpheniramine (ChlorTrimeton)diphenhydramine (Benadryl)loratadine (Claritin)

Does Claritin cause miscarriage?

A study of 161 people taking loratadine during the first trimester of pregnancy did not show an increased chance for miscarriage.

What are contraindications of loratadine?

Contraindications to loratadine include patients with documented hypersensitivity to the drug or components of the formulation, with strong contraindications in children under the age of 2 due to its antihistamine properties, which may cause CNS stimulation or seizures in young patients.

Is loratadine the same as Claritin?

Claritin (loratadine) is an antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms. Claritin blocks the action of histamine, a substance in the body that initiates allergic symptoms like itching, sneezing, runny nose, and allergic skin rashes. Claritin is available as a generic drug.

How quickly does loratadine work?

Onset of action is within 1 hour and duration is at least 24 hours. Once-daily dosing is recommended. Generally, loratadine is as efficacious as existing antihistamines in relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and in suppressing wheal formation.