Does Claritin Make You Drowsy?

Claritin (loratadine) is considered a less-drowsy antihistamine, but it can still make some people sleepy. Unlike first-generation antihistamines such as Benadryl, Claritin doesn't easily cross the blood-brain barrier, which significantly reduces drowsiness risk. In clinical trials, drowsiness and fatigue occurred at rates close to those seen with placebo, although results vary by study and by the older antihistamine used for comparison. However, individual responses vary, and some people may feel tired. Until you know how Claritin affects you, avoid driving or other activities that require alertness if you feel drowsy, and use caution with alcohol or other medicines that cause sleepiness.