22 Nov 2022
Claritin is the brand name of a medicine called Loratadine, and it is used to treat different types of allergies. Antihistamine medicines are divided into H1, H2, H3, and H4 histamine blockers.
H1 blockers are further divided into two generations. Loratidine belongs to 2nd generation H1 histamine receptor blockers. It is available in different forms, such as tablets, syrups, and suspensions.
How Does It Work On The Body?
It works by blocking histamine, a chemical substance that triggers allergic reactions in your Body.
Claritin treats itching, runny nose, hives, and hay fever caused by excessive histamine release in your Body.
Uses
It is used in treating different allergic symptoms
- Skin allergy
- Hives
- Runny nose
- Hay fever
- Sneezing
- Itching in the eyes, nose, or throat
- Watery eyes
How Does Constipation Happen Through Antihistamines?
Studies have shown that one of the side effects of 1st generation antihistamines (Chlorpheniramine, Promethazine, Diphenhydramine, etc.) is Constipation. They greatly penetrate the brain or central nervous system and block the Acetylcholine chemical.
Acetylcholine is a chemical or neurotransmitter which plays a vital role in the brain and other activities such as muscle control, learning, and memory.
When 1st generation antihistamines block the acetylcholine, the movements of intestinal muscles (which help expel waste out of the Body) slow down and result in Constipation.
Does Claritin Cause Constipation?
Research studies and clinical trials do not support the statement that Claritin can cause Constipation. It belongs to the 2nd generation of the Antihistamine class of medicines and has minimal to zero effect on acetylcholine. It does not interfere with gastric movements and does not result in Constipation.
How Long Does The Constipation Last?
The duration of Constipation is dependent on the cause. If Constipation is associated with taking some medicines, it is imminent that it will go on its own when the medications are stopped.
If the cause of Constipation is due to other diseases, then it will go only by treatment.
Can Constipation Be Cured Naturally Or Medically?
Constipation can be cured naturally, depending on the current condition.
If you do self-care, it can be fixed naturally if you follow these tips
- Eating fiber-rich diet
- Drinking extra glasses of water and fruit juices
- Avoiding caffeine and other drinks which can cause dehydration
- Daily exercise
- If it does not go naturally, then you have to take a variety of over-the-counter medications that help to treat Constipation, such as
- Bisacodyl
- Docusate
- Senna
Various prescription medications are available to treat Constipation, such as lubiprostone, prucalopride, plecanatide, and linaclotide.
Conclusion
Claritin is an anti-allergy medicine that is used to treat several allergies. The mechanism by which Claritin acts on the Body has revealed that it is not associated with Constipation. But this is not true for all antihistamines as the medicines from the same class can cause Constipation by blocking acetylcholine.
