Claritin Dosage

Each patient is given a different Claritin dosage based on several factors that include the patient’s age, the medical condition being treated and other existing medical conditions.  As with any other medication, do not take more than the recommended dose, unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider.

Below is the usual Claritin dose as recommended by the manufacturer. However, it is possible for you to get a different prescription, therefore, do not adjust or increase your dose without consulting your doctor.

For Adults and Older Children

For adults and children over 6 years of age: The recommended dose is 10 mg taken once a day (10 mg regular tablet, liquigel, or reditab; or two teaspoonfuls (10 mL) of syrup). Claritin is available in different drug formulations. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent dose.

Patients with history or existing liver or kidney impairment (GFR <30 mL/min) may need a lower dose of Claritin. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider if you are to take this drug. Usually, the starting dose for adults with liver or kidney disease is 10 mg taken every other day. In children younger than 2 to 5 years with liver or kidney disease, the recommended stating dose is 5 mg taken every other day.

If you are taking the rapidly-disintegrating tables, it should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve before swallowed. It can be taken with or without water or foods.

Dosage for Young Children

The recommended dose for children ages 2 to 5 years is 5 mg taken once a day. This is equivalent to one teaspoonful or 5 ml of Claritin syrup or one Claritin chewable tablet. However, be sure that you are taking the appropriate drug formulation. Take note that Claritin is available in different drug formulations therefore be sure to read the prescription label carefully before starting the medication and before taking each dose. Younger children may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug and hence may be prone to drug overdose.

Young children with liver or kidney impairment may need lower dose of this drug. Consult your child’s healthcare provider before giving this drug.