A: Loratadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. Loratadine is used to treat the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose. It's also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions. There are other non-drowsy antihistamines on the market, both as over-the-counter and as prescription medications.