When to Use Claritin for Dogs
Claritin (active ingredient Loratadine) is an antihistamine from the piperidine class. Loratadine works by blocking the effects of histamine – the main chemical responsible for inflammation and allergies. Namely, when the immune system identifies a particle as an allergen, it triggers a chain of reactions mediated by histamine.
The histamine travels through the body in search of specific histamine receptors, and once bound with them, it causes itchiness, swelling, and other allergy symptoms. Loratadine, same as all antihistamines, prevents the histamine from binding with its receptors, thus inhibiting its major pro-inflammatory role and preventing the allergy reaction.
When Can Claritin Be Used for Dogs?
There are several situations where Claritin might be a solution for your dog’s symptoms. These include:
Claritin and other antihistamines that can treat allergies and inflammation in dogs is NOT a cure for allergies. It can help relieve symptoms and bring your dog some relief while they recover or while you take other steps to help prevent the allergies.
How Claritin Works for Dogs
The active ingredient in Claritin is Loratadine. It works by blocking the natural histamine reaction in dogs’ bodies.
As with humans, when your dog’s immune system identifies a foreign substance as an allergen, it signals to the mast cells to release histamine. Once the histamine is released, the allergic reaction, inflammation, or red bump that appears is the body fighting off the allergen. When Loratadine blocks the histamines, it also reduces the allergic response or inflammation.
Some vets may prescribe antihistamines like Claritin to help relieve allergic reactions in your dog. Besides Claritin, your vet may recommend other antihistamines like Cetirizine and Diphenhydramine. Vets sometimes choose Claritin because it won’t cause drowsiness and lasts longer than some other kinds of antihistamines.
