Seasonal allergies, hives and itching · Over the counter
Claritin (loratadine) dosage for children
Also sold as Children’s Claritin, generic loratadine
Children’s Claritin liquid is 5 mg per 5 mL, given once a day in the morning. Children 2 to 5 years take 2.5 mL, 6 to 11 years take 5 mL, and 12 and older take 10 mL. It isn’t approved for children under 2, and it isn’t advised for colds at any age. Like Zyrtec, the loratadine dose goes by age, not weight.
Source: St. Louis Children's Hospital
Claritin dose calculator
Claritin dosage chart
| Age | Dose (mg) | Liquid 5 mg/5 mL | Chewable 5 mg | Tablet 10 mg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-5 years | 2.5 mg | 2.5 mL | not used | not used |
| 6-11 years | 5 mg | 5 mL | 1 tablet | not used |
| 12 years and older | 10 mg | 10 mL | 2 tablets | 1 tablet |
- Under 2 years: loratadine isn’t FDA-approved at this age. Don’t use it unless your child’s doctor tells you to.
Chart: St. Louis Children's Hospital. A hyphen means that product isn’t used at that age.
Claritin, Zyrtec or Allegra?
All three are once- or twice-a-day antihistamines that cause less drowsiness than Benadryl. St. Louis Children’s notes that loratadine lasts up to 24 hours but doesn’t control allergy symptoms quite as well as the older antihistamines. If it isn’t enough, ask your pediatrician about cetirizine (Zyrtec) or fexofenadine (Allegra). Don’t give two antihistamines together unless a doctor advises it.
When to see the pediatrician
- Your child is under 2 and has allergy symptoms, hives or itching.
- Symptoms don’t improve after a week of daily use.
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction: trouble breathing, or swelling of the lips, tongue or throat. Call 911.
Common questions
Can I give Claritin to my 1-year-old?
Only if your child’s doctor tells you to. It isn’t FDA-approved for children under 2.
Is Claritin or Zyrtec better for kids?
Both are once-daily and dosed the same way by age. Cetirizine (Zyrtec) works a little more strongly for some children but can be more sedating. Your pediatrician can help you choose.
Does Claritin help a cold?
No. St. Louis Children’s advises against using it for colds at any age.
Sources
- Loratadine (Claritin) Dose Table. St. Louis Children's Hospital (Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines). Checked 2026-09-25.
- Drug Facts label on the package. Manufacturer, U.S. OTC Drug Facts. Checked 2026-09-18.