Patented in 1980, Loratadine was developed by Schering-Plough, which was a United States-based pharmaceutical company, as part of a quest for a non-sedating antihistamine. Naturally, as a "non-sedating "antihistamine, Loratadine should cause less sedation and psychomotor retardation than the older antihistamines because it penetrates the blood/brain barrier to a smaller extent. This medication is taken by mouth, and is basically used to treat sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other cold or allergy symptoms. In addition, it is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions. However, before you take this medication, you should first tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use. Besides, you need to ask a doctor or pharmacist beforehand if you have liver or kidney disease, lest you end up dealing a with the unpleasant side effects that may include difficulty in breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat.