Product Description

Bilastine Tablets 20 mg is a second-generation antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of various allergic conditions, such as a blocked or runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and skin rashes. An allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances (allergens) like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods. Symptoms can vary widely; for example, seasonal allergies (e.g., hay fever) are triggered by pollen, while others may result from pet dander or food. This medication provides targeted relief without significant sedation, making it suitable for daytime use. It is available by prescription in some regions and requires medical advice for proper use.

Uses

1) Treatment of allergic conditions, including:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (e.g., hay fever caused by pollen).

• Perennial allergic rhinitis (year-round allergies due to dust mites or pet dander).

• Chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives, characterized by skin redness, swelling, and itching).

2) Relief of symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and rashes associated with these allergies.

How it works

Bilastine Tablets 20 mg contain bilastine, a selective H1-receptor antagonist (antihistamine). It works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during allergic reactions, which causes symptoms like itching, swelling, and inflammation. By inhibiting histamine's effects on H1 receptors in the nasal passages, eyes, and skin, bilastine reduces these symptoms without significantly affecting other receptors, minimizing side effects like drowsiness. It has a rapid onset (1–2 hours) and a duration of action up to 24 hours, with minimal metabolism and primarily renal excretion.

Benefits

• Effective symptom relief: Quickly alleviates allergic symptoms such as nasal congestion, itching, and rashes, improving daily comfort and quality of life.

• Non-sedating: Unlike first-generation antihistamines, bilastine causes less drowsiness, making it ideal for use during the day.

• Broad applicability: Suitable for both seasonal and year-round allergies, as well as skin-related issues like urticaria, with clinical studies showing significant symptom reduction in 70–80% of patients (based on trials like those in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology).

• Convenient dosing: Once-daily tablet allows for easy adherence without building tolerance.

How to use

Swallow Bilastine Tablets 20 mg whole with a glass of water, preferably at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet, as this may affect its efficacy. Follow your doctor's instructions, and take it as prescribed for the full duration.

Side Effects

Common side effects (usually mild and temporary):

• Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, nausea.

• Neurological: Headache, dizziness.

• Other: Dry mouth, sore throat.

If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor. Serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions (e.g., rash, swelling).

Safety Advice

• Alcohol Interaction: May cause excessive dizziness when combined with alcohol; avoid concurrent use.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Classified as Pregnancy Category B (animal studies show no risk, but human data are limited), so use only if the potential benefits outweigh risks. Consult your doctor; it is excreted in breast milk, so use caution during breastfeeding.

• Other Precautions: Use with caution in patients with a history of liver or kidney diseases, as dose adjustments may be needed (e.g., reduce dose in severe renal impairment). Avoid in individuals with hypersensitivity to bilastine. Inform your doctor if you have epilepsy or urinary retention, as it may exacerbate these. Regular monitoring is advised for long-term use.

• Interactions: May interact with ketoconazole or erythromycin (which can increase bilastine levels), so inform your doctor of all medications. It does not typically interact with food or most other drugs.

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature below 86°F (30 °C). Protect from light and moisture.

FAQs

What is the use of Bilastine Tablets 20 mg?

Bilastine Tablets 20 mg is used‚ to treat various allergic symptoms like blocked/runny/itchy nose, red/watery eyes, and skin rashes.

How does Bilastine Tablets 20 mg work?

Bilastine Tablets 20 mg contain bilastine, an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical in the body responsible for causing allergic reactions such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and a runny nose.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is an allergy caused due to outdoor or indoor allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, or tiny flecks of skin and saliva shed by cats, dogs, and other animals with fur or feathers (pet dander). It leads to cold-like symptoms (running nose, watery eyes).

Do Bilastine Tablets 20 mg cause drowsiness?

Bilastine Tablets 20 mg is an antihistamine providing instant relief from allergic conditions; however, in some people, it may cause sleepiness and induce some drowsiness during the day. Hence, you are recommended to take it at night if you are experiencing excessive drowsiness during the day.

In which conditions should I avoid taking Bilastine Tablets 20 mg?

You should not take Bilastine Tablets 20 mg if you have had an allergic reaction to Bilastine Tablets 20 mg, are intolerant to lactose or sorbitol, have liver or kidney failure, epilepsy (fits), or difficulty peeing. Tell your doctor that you are taking Bilastine Tablets 20 mg and have booked an allergy test, as it might affect the diagnostic result.

Can I stop taking Bilastine Tablets 20 mg on my own?

No, you are not recommended to stop taking Bilastine Tablets 20 mg without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen the condition or cause recurring symptoms. Therefore, take Bilastine Tablets 20 mg for as long as your doctor has prescribed it, and if you experience any difficulty while taking Bilastine Tablets 20 mg, please consult your doctor.