Effects of loratadine on postural control

Acta Otolaryngol Suppl. 1995:520 Pt 2:310-2. doi: 10.3109/00016489509125258.

Abstract

The effects of classical sedating antihistamines on cognitive and perceptual functions are well known. Loratadine is a new antihistamine without sedative effects. In this study, loratadine 10 and 40 mg daily, clemastine 2 mg twice daily and placebo were evaluated in 8 healthy subjects in terms of effects on equilibrium as measured with dynamic posturography. Dynamic posturography comprises a sensory organization part in which the support surface and visual surround are either stable or referenced to the patient's sway, with eyes open or closed. In a movement coordination part, the platform makes active movements. Analysis of variance showed no effects on equilibrium attributable to loratadine. Comparing substances pairwise, however, a significant difference between loratadine and clemastine was displayed in 2 out of 6 sensory test conditions. In conclusion, loratadine can be considered safe regarding balance functions.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Clemastine / pharmacology
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Female
  • Histamine H1 Antagonists / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Loratadine / pharmacology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Postural Balance / drug effects*
  • Posture*
  • Reaction Time / drug effects
  • Vestibular Function Tests*

Substances

  • Histamine H1 Antagonists
  • Loratadine
  • Clemastine