Effects of loratadine on postural control.

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.