This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Dosage and how to take loratadine
Dosage and strength
Loratadine comes in 10mg tablets and as a liquid medicine (labelled either 5mg/5ml or 1mg/1ml).
The usual dose in adults is 10mg, taken once a day.
Doses are usually lower for people with liver problems and may be taken every other day.
For children, your doctor will use your child's weight or age to work out the right dose. Children aged between 6 and 12 years can only take loratadine tablets if they weigh more than 30kg. Give children loratadine liquid instead of tablets if they are under 6 years or weigh 30kg or less.
How to take it
Swallow tablets with a drink of water, milk or juice. If the tablet has a line across the middle, you can break it in half if you find it hard to swallow it whole. Do not chew it.
Loratadine liquid may be easier for children to take than tablets. The liquid medicine will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to help you measure out the right dose. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.
You can take all types of loratadine with or without food.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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