Do you also get frequent colds? Are you tired of the runny nose and the discomfort of having a stuffy nose that makes it hard to breathe? A combination of Loratadine and Pseudoephedrine is a medicine that doctors often recommend for these types of allergies and cold symptoms. So today, let's talk about this medicine in detail and in simple terms, about the things you need to be careful about when using it.
What exactly is this medicine?
Simply put, this is a combination of two types of medication.
1. Loratadine: This is an antihistamine . When we have an allergy, our body produces a chemical called 'Histamine'. Things like sneezing, itching, and runny noses are caused by this histamine. So, what this medicine called Loratadine does is stop the action of that histamine. It's like controlling a nuisance.
2. Pseudoephedrine: This is a type of decongestant . Your nose is blocked because the small blood vessels inside your nose swell. This medicine works by reducing that swelling, clearing your nasal congestion, and helping you breathe easier. It's like clearing a blocked nose.
When these two medicines are combined, many of those annoying allergy symptoms are relieved at once.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
This is very important. Before you start taking this medicine, you should give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell him/her if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Condition/Occasion | Why should I inform you? (Simply) |
|---|---|
| High blood pressure | Pseudoephedrine can further increase blood pressure. |
| Heart disease | This medicine may change the heart rate. |
| Diabetes | Sometimes blood sugar levels can be affected. |
| Glaucoma | There is a possibility of increasing eye pressure. |
| Thyroid disease | Interactions with thyroid hormone levels may occur. |
| Kidney or liver disease | The process of removing the drug from the body may be affected. |
| Prostate disease / difficulty urinating | It can make urination more difficult. |
| If you have taken MAOI medication in the past 14 days | This is prohibited because it can cause a very dangerous interaction. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | Medical advice is essential as it may affect the baby. |
Additionally, don't forget to mention any allergies you have to other medications, foods, or dyes.
The correct way to use the medicine
Usually, this medicine is said to be taken with a glass of water. Never break the pill, crush it, or chew it like chewing gum. This is because some pills are designed to be absorbed slowly into the body. If you break it, all the medicine can be absorbed into the body at once and cause side effects.
Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the time and in the amount prescribed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Warning: This medicine is for you only. Do not give this medicine to a friend who has the same symptoms as you. It can be dangerous.
What if you give it to children?
This medicine is sometimes given to children over 12 years of age. But only on medical advice. If you are giving this medicine to your child, talk to your pediatrician about it.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital.
Other medicines that should not be used with this medicine
This is very important. When taking this medicine, tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements). Some medicines can have dangerous side effects when taken with this medicine.
| Medicines that should never be taken together | |
|---|---|
| MAOI type medication | These medications, which are given for conditions such as depression, can dangerously increase blood pressure. |
| Other cold and allergy medications | Increasing the dose of medication may cause side effects. |
| Ergot alkaloids | Some medications for migraines. |
| Medicines that should be taken with caution and only on medical advice | |
| Digoxin (for heart disease) | Heart rate can be affected. |
| Certain medicines for depression | Side effects may increase. |
| Linezolid, Erythromycin, Ketoconazole (antibiotics) | The level of medication in the body can be altered. |
What side effects can you experience?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately:
- Severe allergic reaction: skin rash, swelling of the lips, tongue, and face.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Severe dizziness, vision changes, eye pain.
- Insomnia, restlessness, agitation.
- Seizures.
- Difficulty urinating or change in the amount of urine you pass.
- Feeling unusually tired.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking the medication and see a doctor immediately.
Side effects that are commonly seen, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist:
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Sore throat
- Feeling a little tired
Chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on a low-sugar candy, and drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help with dry mouth.
Take-Home Message
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor about all medical conditions you have (especially high blood pressure, heart disease) and all other medications you are taking.
- Never take other cold or allergy medications together without a doctor's advice.
- Swallow the pill whole without breaking, crushing, or chewing.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects such as rapid heartbeat, extreme restlessness, or difficulty breathing.
- This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with others.
- Store the medicine at room temperature, out of the reach of children.
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