loratadine + montelukast

Loratadine + montelukast is a fixed-dose combination of two small molecule drugs used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that acts as an antagonist at the histamine H1 receptor, reducing symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks cysteinyl leukotriene receptors (primarily CysLT1), thereby reducing inflammation and bronchoconstriction associated with allergic responses. The combination was developed to provide broader symptom relief in allergic rhinitis by targeting both histaminergic and leukotriene-mediated pathways. Clinical studies have shown that this combination can improve nasal symptoms more than either drug alone or placebo; however, it did not demonstrate superiority over intranasal corticosteroids like beclomethasone[2][3][5][8]. The product was developed by Schering-Plough/Merck Pharmaceuticals but was never approved by the FDA due to lack of additional benefit over taking the two drugs separately[1][6].

Brand names

Claritin + Singulair

Other names

loratadine and montelukast