This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Common side effects of loratadine
The most common side effect of loratadine is feeling sleepy. This happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
There are things you can do to help cope with these common side effects:
Feeling sleepy and tired
Try a different non-drowsy antihistamine. If this does not help, talk to your doctor. Do not drive, ride a bike or use tools or machinery until you feel better, and fully alert and awake.
Side effects in children may include:
Headaches
Make sure they rest and drink plenty of fluids. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller. Talk to your doctor if they do not go away or are severe.
Feeling tired or nervous
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if these side effects do not go away. They may be able to recommend a different antihistamine.
Keep taking loratadine, but talk to your doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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