Claritin (loratadine) helps manage sinus drainage if caused by allergies, as it reduces histamine-induced congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. For sinus pressure and congestion, Claritin-D (which includes a decongestant) is more effective. It is generally less effective for non-allergic mucus issues.
Decongestant & Antihistamine Medications
Antihistamine medications, such as Claritin, Zyrtec or Benadryl, can also offer sinus infection symptom relief. While these medications specifically target allergy symptoms, sinus infection symptoms are similar, making antihistamines worth a try.
Claritin tends to start working within 1 to 3 hours after taking it. The difference in time can depend on which type of product you take. Oral tablets seem to kick in faster than capsules. Claritin's full effects should be felt about 8 to 12 hours after a dose.
How to stop post nasal drip
Loratadine/pseudoephedrine (Claritin-D) and guaifenesin/pseudoephedrine (Mucinex D) are both over-the-counter medications that help relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure. They both contain pseudoephedrine, a decongestant, which helps clear your sinuses.
Common Claritin side effects include headache, dizziness, and digestive side effects such as nausea. Less commonly, some people may experience dry mouth, drowsiness, or fatigue. Claritin side effects are typically mild and can be managed at home.
Fexofenadine (brand Allegra) and loratadine (brand Claritin) are good second-generation antihistamines that are non-sedating and could be good for mild to moderate postnasal drip symptoms.
Remedies that may ease sinus drainage include:
Studies have shown equal effectiveness for Zyrtec and Claritin for allergic rhinitis and urticaria. Studies have not compared the effects of Zyrtec and Claritin for conditions such as postnasal drip, but research suggests intranasal antihistamines such as azelastine are more effective.
Antihistamines and decongestants can often help with postnasal drip caused by sinusitis and viral infections. They also can be effective, along with steroid nasal sprays, for postnasal drip caused by allergies.
In addition, do not take loratadine (Claritin) while taking erythromycin (an antibiotic), ketoconazole (an antifungal drug), cimetidine (a heartburn medicine), or clarithromycin (an antibiotic) due to potential drug interactions and an increased risk of side effects.
Postnasal drip is when mucus drips down from the back of the nose into the throat. Many things can cause postnasal drip, including allergies, pollution, certain foods, or changes in temperature. The mucus can have different colors and thicknesses. This depends on what is causing it.
The choice between Claritin and Zyrtec depends on individual needs. Claritin has fewer side effects and is suitable for long-term use, while Zyrtec acts faster and is more effective at relieving severe symptoms. However, Zyrtec may cause drowsiness. Always consult a healthcare provider.
Put a warm compress over the nose and forehead to help relieve sinus pressure. Use a decongestant or saline nasal spray. Breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water or shower. Ask your healthcare provider about over-the-counter medicines that can help you feel better.
What time of day should I take Claritin®? Claritin® products are non-drowsy and can be taken at any time.
Antihistamines are medicines that treat allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine. Antihistamines come as pills, chewable tablets, capsules, liquids, nasal sprays, and eye drops. There are also injectable forms used mainly in health care settings.
If your allergy symptoms include sinus congestion, it may be worth considering Zyrtec-D (cetirizine / pseudoephedrine), Claritin-D (loratadine / pseudoephedrine), or Allegra-D (fexofenadine / pseudoephedrine).
Sinus surgery using a nasal endoscope is the most commonly recommended procedure for people with chronic sinusitis. The surgeon uses the same type of thin endoscope used during the diagnostic exam. This procedure requires no visible incisions, is performed under general anesthesia.
Common symptoms of a sinus infection include: Postnasal drip (mucus dripping down your throat). Runny nose with thick yellow or green mucus. Stuffy nose.
Self-care at home
To fix postnasal drip due to allergies, you should avoid things you're allergic to. Symptom relief may include medicines like: Antihistamines, such as loratadine-pseudoephedrine (Claritin®).
What is the best medicine for constant sinus drainage?
Oral antihistamines, such as Benadryl, Zyrtec, and Claritin, aren't known to increase blood pressure. Other antihistamine forms also aren't known to have a major effect on blood pressure.
Antihistamine drugs work because the active ingredient is a molecule that fits like a cap onto the histamine receptor, blocking the signal that causes itchy, watery symptoms.