Sammy asked
I give my child Claritin daily. However, they recently were prescribed Tamiflu and was wondering if it was safe.
At a glance
- There are no known drug interactions between Tamiflu and Claritin. They are considered safe to take together.
Answer
There are no known drug interactions between Tamiflu and Claritin (loratadine). They are considered to be safe to take together.
Below is some additional information regarding Tamiflu and Claritin.
Claritin Information
Claritin (loratadine) is an non-sedating, "second-generation" antihistamine (H1-blocker).
Unlike "first-generation" antihistamines, Claritin doesn't penetrate the central nervous system in high concentrations and, therefore, does not cause significant sedation.
Claritin was first approved by the FDA in April 1993 as a prescription medication and was approved for over the counter sale in December 2002.
Claritin may be taken with or without food, with the onset of action occurring within 1 to 3 hours. Peak effects are generally seen in 8 to 12 hours. Claritin has a long duration of action and is therefore dosed once daily.
Tamiflu Information
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is an oral neuraminidase inhibitor (NAI) indicated for the treatment and prevention of acute, uncomplicated seasonal influenza infections.
Clinical benefit from Tamiflu is greatest when used as soon as possible after flu symptoms appear.
The FDA approved labeling recommends initiating Tamiflu within 48 hours of influenza symptom onset (for treatment)or close contact with an infected individual (post-exposure prophylaxis).
In terms of dosing, Tamiflu may be taken orally with or without food. Taking it with food, however, may increase tolerability and reduce gastrointestinal side effects. As mentioned, for best effects, begin treatment within 48 hours of symptom onset or within 48 hours of exposure.
It is important to note that Tamiflu is not considered a substitute for annual influenza virus vaccination.
