What it means
A second-generation antihistaminean-tee-HIS-tuh-meenA drug that blocks the effects of histamine, used mostly for allergy symptoms.anti- againsthistamine Full entry sold over the counter. It relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and hives, and causes much less sleepiness and fewer anticholinergic effects than older antihistamines such as hydroxyzinehy-DROK-sih-zeenA sedating antihistamine used for anxiety, itching and nausea, and to calm clients before or after surgery.Full entry . Claritin-D also contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that can raise blood pressure.
For the nurse
Teach the client to check labels for combination products with decongestants if they have high blood pressure or heart disease, and to report drowsiness, which can still happen.
At a glance
| Drug class | antihistamine (second-generation) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Claritin, Alavert |
| Spanish | loratadina |
| Also written | Claritin, Alavert |
Related terms
allergy
A reaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless to most people.
antihistamine
A drug that blocks the effects of histamine, used mostly for allergy symptoms.
hydroxyzine
A sedating antihistamine used for anxiety, itching and nausea, and to calm clients before or after surgery.