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Claritin, known generically as loratadine, is usually prescribed to treat seasonal allergy symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and itching. Although it was originally available only with a doctor's prescription, you can now get it over the counter. Claritin or loratadine has been shown to quickly relieve allergy symptoms as well as hives and histamine induced reactions without causing drowsiness. Some people believe that Claritin is responsible for their hair loss. Although it seems serious, hair loss caused by Claritin or loratadine isn't permanent and ends when the user stops taking the medication.

Typically, Claritin induced hair loss is not extensive, and provides little or no cause for alarm. When considering the advantages and disadvantages of taking Claritin or loratadine to treat allergies, most people find that the relief they receive from their seasonal allergies to be of far greater benefit than the less significant potential for hair loss.

Every drug or medication has the potential for harmful side effects, particularly if used inappropriately. Concern for potential side effects should not automatically dissuade the person who is suffering from allergies from trying Claritin or loratadine. Consult with your physician before beginning Claritin, loratadine, or any other medication. Self-medication is not advised because of the increased risk of unforeseen complications, untoward side effects, and interactions with other foods, medicines, or over the counter remedies. Not all side effects of this, or any other medication, manifest immediately, so it can be very difficult for the layman to know whether or not a recent health-related problem is related to the intake of a particular drug or medication.

Any prescription medication has a variety of possible side effects, and a variety of likely side effects. Make sure that the discussion with your physician, or other healthcare prescriber, about Claritin or loratadine includes discussion of side effects other than just the potential for hair loss. Additionally, it is wise to read the package insert for warnings and dosage instructions, and if questions remain, to consult your physician or pharmacist again.