Rhinitis in the elderly is a common but often neglected condition. Structural changes in the nose associated with aging, predisposes the elderly to rhinitis. There are a number of specific factors that affect medical treatment of the elderly including polypharmacy, cognitive dysfunction, changes in Doctors give trusted answers on uses, effects, side-effects, and cautions: Dr. Schlichtemeier on claritan safe for elderly: Your own doctor knows best about your particular case. But in general, Ativan (lorazepam) is a safer benzodiazepine than others in its class because it has no metabolic by-products to build up in your system. It's also. Claritin is an antihistamine used to treat the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose. Learn about side effects, interactions and indications. Learn about side effects, interactions and indications. Right now, the Claritin, Flonase and Patanol eye drops are working pretty well for him. His allergies aren't awful but they are bad enough that the allergist recommends the shots. We have His allergies aren't awful but they are bad enough that the allergist recommends the shots. Detailed Loratadine dosage information for adults and children. Includes dosages for Allergic Rhinitis and Urticaria; plus renal, liver and dialysis adjustments. How to use Claritin Tablet. If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all the directions on the product package before taking this medication. In a study involving twelve healthy geriatric subjects (66 to 78 years old), the AUC and peak plasma levels (Cmax) of both loratadine and descarboethoxyloratadine were approximately 50% greater than those observed in studies of younger subjects. The pharmacist said he started Zyrtec two weeks ago and it can have the opposite effect in some elderly people and he advised we ask the dr to stop it. How many elderly patients with insomnia use over-the-counter sleep aids that contain antihistamines? Could these drugs be the reason for morning confusion? Summary. Most individuals do not experience Claritin side effects when they take the medication as directed. While it is a safe medication that is sold over the counter, patients should be aware of all of the possible side effects they may experience during treatment, including dry mouth, drowsiness, jaundice or seizures.