Which schedule applies to Loratadine products for children under the age of 2 years?

Loratadine products for children under the age of 2 years are categorized under Schedule 1. This designation indicates that these products require a prescription to be dispensed, highlighting the additional caution required when administering medications to infants and young children.

Loratadine is an antihistamine commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms, but due to the potential for varying tolerability and the need for careful dosing in very young patients, regulatory bodies classify products containing it for this age group in a higher schedule. This ensures that a healthcare professional evaluates the necessity and safety of the medication for a specific child, helping to mitigate risks associated with misuse or adverse effects.

Products that are unscheduled can be sold without a prescription and are typically deemed safe for use without professional intervention, which does not apply to Loratadine for children under 2. Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 medications typically are available without a prescription but may have certain restrictions, such as consulting a pharmacist or being locked behind a counter, which does not align with the requirements for prescribing medications for very young children.