Loratadine

Loobeylou

I seem to recall that I have read on this site something about taking Loratadine (I think it is) both prior to a foreign holiday and whilst away, to ward off bites from mozzies. Can anyone refresh me on the details, as I have done a search and not come up with the answer.

With thanks.

lisyloo

I don't think Loratadine will ward off mozzies. It's an antihistamine so could certainly improve your reaction to bites.

You can get a cheap generic type here (no connection).
http://www.chemist-4-u.com/eshop/home.php

For warding them off I can recommend the "soft & fresh" dry oil spray from Avon. It's usually £5 from Avon (they recently had a BOGOF offer on) but you can get it cheaper on Ebay.
I can recommend it from my husbands experience.
I have also heard that roadside workers and the SAS use it.

They can't actually sell it as "mosquito repellant" because they haven't done the legally required tests to prove it, but I've read about it in magazines etc. and know from personal experience that it works (my husband used to get bitten all the time and doesn't now).

This is probably better for most people than taking tablets.

Loobeylou

Many thanks Lisyloo for your response - yes the tablet mentioned is an antihistamine, and for the first time last year I followed the advice on this website and gave it a try. For the first time ever I was not bitten, but the other three people I was on holiday with all had several bites.

Not sure why it worked, but I do believe it did. I had also heard of the Avon product, again on this site, and may give it a try although I did find taking the tablets rather easier than remembering to slather the cream on all the time.

Edit: I was trying to find out the details of Loratadine for a friend, as I could not remember how many tablets I took per day
or how much time before the holiday I was taking these tablets.

misskool

Look out for natural sprays which contain lemongrass (citronella), they work at repelling mosquitos and most insects. I'd prefer them to taking tabs. It helps if you can keep your body cool, they like warmer people.

lday77

Loratadine is on BOGOF in Boots, tradename Clarityn.