Can I Take claritin and diphenhydramine Together?

SUMMARY:

Combining loratadine (Claritin) with diphenhydramine can increase overall antihistamine and anticholinergic effects, most notably increased drowsiness and dry mouth; avoid combining unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Loratadine is a second‑generation, largely non‑sedating antihistamine; diphenhydramine is a first‑generation, sedating antihistamine with strong anticholinergic effects. Taking them together can produce additive sedation, impaired coordination, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Risk is higher in older adults and people with glaucoma, benign prostatic hyperplasia, heart disease, or when using other sedating or anticholinergic drugs. If short‑term additional symptom relief is needed, discuss safer alternatives or timing with a clinician or pharmacist rather than routinely combining both.