Can I Safely Take Claritin And Bronkaid Together?

Lynne asked

Can I safely take loratadine and Bronkaid together?? I have end-stage COPD, and it is hard to breathe. I have been using Bronkaid on occasion.

Answer

Hi Lynne and thank you for your great question! I always appreciate when my patients ask for my input for their OTC therapy. That way I know that they are getting a safe and effective choice.

First, there is no known interaction between Bronkaid (contains both ephedrine and guaifenesin) and loratadine (or under the brand name Claritin) and are safe to take together.

Loratadine (brand name Claritin) is a “second generation” antihistamine. It helps with allergies but doesn’t cause the drowsiness or drying effects (dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, etc.) that older antihistamines (like Benadryl or diphenhydramine) do.

Bronkaid is a combination drug. It contains both guaifenesin and ephedrine. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by helping to thin out mucus so that you can get rid of it easier by coughing. Ephedrine is a stimulant. It works by helping to open your airways, but it can also raise your blood pressure or worsen heart disease. If you don’t have high blood pressure or it’s under control, it’s usually safe to take it for a few days. However, if you find yourself taking it often, it’s probably a good idea to let your physician know. They will more than likely want to reevaluate your COPD, and may want to change your drug therapy.

Additionally, it would be unsafe to take Claritin-D (loratadine and pseudoephedrine) with Bronkaid. Both of these contain stimulants which may raise your heart rate and blood pressure to a dangerous level.

Feel free to reach out to us if you have any additional questions!