Alavert D XR Is an Over-the-Counter Extended-Release Tablet That Combines the Antihistamine Loratadine With the Decongestant Pseudoephedrine to Treat Allergy Symptoms and Nasal Congestion for Up to 12 Hours

If you're shopping for an allergy medication that also tackles stuffiness, you've probably come across Alavert D XR. But with so many allergy products on the market, it's worth understanding exactly what this one does, how it works, and whether it's right for you.

Here's everything you need to know about Alavert D XR in 2026.

What Is Alavert D XR?

Alavert D XR is an over-the-counter (OTC), extended-release combination tablet used to relieve allergy symptoms and nasal congestion. It's manufactured by Foundation Consumer Brands, LLC (Pittsburgh, PA).

Each tablet contains two active ingredients:

• Loratadine 5 mg — a second-generation antihistamine
• Pseudoephedrine Sulfate 120 mg — a nasal decongestant

You may also see it labeled as Alavert D-12 Hour Allergy & Congestion or Alavert Allergy and Congestion D-12 Hour. The generic equivalent is Loratadine-D 12 Hour, and the most well-known brand-name equivalent is Claritin-D 12 Hour.

Alavert D XR is not a controlled substance, but because it contains Pseudoephedrine, it's kept behind the pharmacy counter. You need a valid photo ID to buy it — no prescription required.

What Is Alavert D XR Used For?

Alavert D XR is approved for temporary relief of symptoms caused by hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and upper respiratory allergies, including:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Itching of the nose or throat
• Nasal congestion
• Sinus congestion and pressure

It's also used for nasal congestion associated with the common cold. The combination works especially well when you need both allergy relief and decongestion — something a plain antihistamine alone won't provide.

Some people also use it off-label for Eustachian tube dysfunction or sinus pressure related to flying and altitude changes, though these aren't officially approved uses.

How Is Alavert D XR Taken?

The standard dosing for adults and children 12 years and older:

• 1 tablet every 12 hours
• Do not take more than 2 tablets in 24 hours
• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water
• Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the tablet — it's extended-release, and breaking it can release too much medication at once

Special Dosing Considerations

• Children under 12: Ask a doctor before use
• Kidney or liver disease: Ask a doctor — the dosage may need to be adjusted
• Older adults: May be more sensitive to Pseudoephedrine effects; consult a doctor

For best results with sleep, take your second daily dose at least 6 hours before bedtime, since Pseudoephedrine can cause insomnia.

Who Should Not Take Alavert D XR?

Do not take Alavert D XR if you:

• Are allergic to Loratadine, Pseudoephedrine, or any inactive ingredient in the tablet
• Currently take or have taken an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days (such as Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine, or Selegiline)
• Have narrow-angle glaucoma
• Have severe high blood pressure or severe coronary artery disease
• Have urinary retention

Talk to a doctor before use if you have:

• High blood pressure (even if controlled with medication)
• Heart disease or irregular heartbeat
• Thyroid disease
• Diabetes
• Difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate
• Kidney or liver disease

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a healthcare provider before using Alavert D XR.

For a complete breakdown of interactions, read our guide on Alavert D XR drug interactions.

Common Side Effects

Most people tolerate Alavert D XR well. The most common side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Nervousness or restlessness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

For detailed information about side effects, including serious ones to watch for, see our full guide on Alavert D XR side effects.

How Much Does Alavert D XR Cost?

Since Alavert D XR is an OTC product, pricing varies by retailer:

• Alavert D XR (brand name): $12 to $22 for 12-24 tablets
• Generic Loratadine-D 12 Hour (store brand): $8 to $15 for 12-24 tablets

Most health insurance plans do not cover OTC products, but you may be able to use your FSA or HSA to pay for it. Some insurance plans with OTC benefits may also reimburse the cost.

The generic store-brand version contains the exact same active ingredients at the same doses — there's no medical reason to choose the brand name over the generic unless you have a personal preference.

For more savings tips, check out our guide on how to save money on Alavert D XR.

How Does It Compare to Similar Medications?

Alavert D XR is one of several antihistamine-decongestant combinations available OTC:

• Claritin-D 12 Hour — Same active ingredients (Loratadine/Pseudoephedrine 5 mg/120 mg). The brand-name equivalent
• Zyrtec-D (Cetirizine/Pseudoephedrine) — Similar combination but may be slightly more sedating due to Cetirizine
• Allegra-D 12 Hour (Fexofenadine/Pseudoephedrine) — Least sedating option among the three
• Sudafed + Loratadine separately — Taking the ingredients as separate tablets allows more flexible dosing

For a full comparison of alternatives, see our guide on alternatives to Alavert D XR.

Where to Buy Alavert D XR

Alavert D XR is available at most major pharmacies and retailers, including CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, and Rite Aid. Remember that you'll need to ask at the pharmacy counter and show your ID.

If you're having trouble finding it in stock, use Medfinder to locate nearby pharmacies that carry it. You can also read our guide on how to check pharmacy stock without calling.

Final Thoughts

Alavert D XR is a solid, well-established OTC option for people who need both allergy relief and nasal decongestion in one tablet. It's affordable, widely available in generic form, and works for up to 12 hours per dose. The main things to be aware of are the Pseudoephedrine-related precautions — especially if you have heart or blood pressure issues — and the behind-the-counter purchase requirement.

If you're unsure whether Alavert D XR is right for you, a quick chat with your doctor or pharmacist can help you decide.