Saw Palmetto - Claritin (Loratadine) Interaction
Herbal: Saw Palmetto
Also Known As: Serenoa repens, American Dwarf Palm Tree, Baies du Palmier Scie, Cabbage Palm, Chou Palmiste, Ju-Zhong, Palmier Nain, Palmier Scie, Sabal, Sabal Fructus, Saw Palmetto Berry
Drug: Loratadine
Brand names:
Claritin

Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Loratadine and Saw Palmetto. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
Saw palmetto is not known to interact with antihistamines, loratadine included.
Additionally, saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and isn't reported to have serious adverse effects in most individuals. Combining it with Claritin isn't thought to produce any additive side effects.
It is important to note, however, that antihistamines have been reported, in some cases, to worsen symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) due to their 'drying effects'.
If you are taking saw palmetto to help with prostate health, there is a chance that antihistamines, like Claritin, could worsen symptoms.
Nevertheless, the 'drying' effect with antihistamines is generally only a problem with the older-generation ones, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
Saw palmetto is not known to interact with antihistamines, loratadine included.
Additionally, saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and isn't reported to have serious adverse effects in most individuals. Combining it with Claritin isn't thought to produce any additive side effects.
It is important to note, however, that antihistamines have been reported, in some cases, to worsen symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) due to their 'drying effects'.
If you are taking saw palmetto to help with prostate health, there is a chance that antihistamines, like Claritin, could worsen symptoms.
Nevertheless, the 'drying' effect with antihistamines is generally only a problem with the older-generation ones, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
-----
On the whole, saw palmetto has very few reported drug interactions due to its lack of effects on liver metabolizing enzymes (e.g., CYP P450 enzymes).
There have been some reports of minor interactions with anticoagulants, estrogens, and contraceptives due to saw palmetto's purported effects on blood clotting and various hormones in the body. However, these interactions have generally only been seen in lab studies and for most individuals, are not considered clinically significant.
As always, however, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new medications or supplements so you can be appropriately monitored.
Saw palmetto is not known to interact with antihistamines, loratadine included.
Additionally, saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and isn't reported to have serious adverse effects in most individuals. Combining it with Claritin isn't thought to produce any additive side effects.
It is important to note, however, that antihistamines have been reported, in some cases, to worsen symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) due to their 'drying effects'.
If you are taking saw palmetto to help with prostate health, there is a chance that antihistamines, like Claritin, could worsen symptoms.
Nevertheless, the 'drying' effect with antihistamines is generally only a problem with the older-generation ones, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
Comprehensive analysis does not indicate a significant interaction.
Saw palmetto is not known to interact with antihistamines, loratadine included.
Additionally, saw palmetto is generally well-tolerated and isn't reported to have serious adverse effects in most individuals. Combining it with Claritin isn't thought to produce any additive side effects.
It is important to note, however, that antihistamines have been reported, in some cases, to worsen symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) due to their 'drying effects'.
If you are taking saw palmetto to help with prostate health, there is a chance that antihistamines, like Claritin, could worsen symptoms.
Nevertheless, the 'drying' effect with antihistamines is generally only a problem with the older-generation ones, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDSaw Palmetto Overview

Loratadine Overview
-
Loratadine is used to temporarily relieve the symptoms of hay fever (allergy to pollen, dust, or other substances in the air) and other allergies. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, nose, or throat. Loratadine is also used to treat itching and redness caused by hives. However, loratadine does not prevent hives or other allergic skin reactions. Loratadine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
-
Loratadine is also available in combination with pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, others). This monograph only includes information about the use of loratadine alone. If you are taking the loratadine and pseudoephedrine combination product, read the information on the package label or ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Saw Palmetto - More Interactions
Saw Palmetto interacts with 173 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
Return to the main supplement interaction checker page
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.