Loratadine Oral Suspension (Anhydrous)
Loratadine is a compounded formulation containing Loratadine, prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
How to Give Anhydrous Oral Suspension
Oral Suspension (Anhydrous) is a liquid medication that does not contain water in its base. This might be an oil-based or other special base to help stabilize the medicine. It will look like a regular liquid medication, but often needs a good shake because the drug can settle. Here's how to give it:
- Shake well each time to mix the medication (5-10 seconds).
- Measure the dose using the syringe/dropper provided or one recommended by your vet. Insert the top of the oral syringe into the bottle adapter. Turn the bottle upside down and pull the plunger until the medicine reaches the volume required
- Hold your pet steady: a towel or helper can assist with squirmy pets.
- Administer the dose slowly into the side of the mouth. Allow small pauses if needed for swallowing.
- Raise the head slightly to help the medication go down and clean any spills with a little water or tissue.
- Praise your pet and offer a treat or water (unless advised against feeding right after).
- Clean the syringe with water immediately after use. Store the bottle as directed, out of sunlight.
- Consistency is key: Shake each time, measure accurately, and contact your vet if any issues arise.
The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine utilized in veterinary medicine for managing the body's response to environmental triggers. It is available as a prescription and over-the-counter medication for use in dogs and cats, frequently considered by veterinarians for patients presented with allergic dermatitis. Professional guidance is essential to ensure the dose and formulation are safe for your pet's individual needs.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
At a pharmacological level, it acts as a peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. This mechanism is considered to manage the physiological response to histamine while minimizing crossing of the blood-brain barrier, which is associated with less sedation than first-generation antihistamines. Commonly observed effects include localized digestive changes such as vomiting or temporary behavioral shifts. Owners should monitor for any unusual changes in energy and contact their veterinarian promptly. It is typically evaluated carefully in patients with known hepatic or renal impairment.
While loratadine is available over-the-counter, professional guidance is required to ensure the dose and product are appropriate for your pet. Mixlab verifies authorization before preparing any medication.
Yes. Mixlab specializes in compounding loratadine into customized strengths and flavored oral formats, such as flavored oral liquids, to support easier administration. The decision rests with your prescribing veterinarian.
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine, which is considered less likely to cause sedation than older antihistamines. Your veterinarian will monitor for observational signs of lethargy to ensure it is suitable for your pet.
Many human products contain additional ingredients like decongestants or xylitol that are toxic to pets. You should only use formulations that have been specifically reviewed and authorized by your veterinarian.
Veterinarians discuss loratadine because it is considered to block the receptors associated with swelling and itching in response to allergens. Your veterinarian will determine if it is appropriate for your pet's skin comfort needs.
