Bilastine 20 mg

Bilastine 20 mg — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is used to treat allergic conditions caused by histamine release in the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, runny or blocked nose, and itchy, watery eyes
• Relief of itching, redness and swelling caused by chronic urticaria (hives)
• Seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms

HOW IT WORKS

• Bilastine blocks the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction
• By blocking histamine (H1) receptors, it reduces itching, swelling, redness and sneezing
• It does not cure the allergy but controls the symptoms while it is being taken

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used to treat bacterial or viral infections
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat fever
• It is not meant for emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis
• It does not treat asthma directly, though it may help with allergic symptoms alongside asthma

How to Use Bilastine 20 mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Usually taken once daily, at the same time each day
• Take on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after food, unless your doctor tells you otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not chew or crush it
• Avoid taking with fruit juices such as grapefruit or apple juice, as they may reduce its effectiveness

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the tablet in its original blister pack until ready to use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Bilastine 20 mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Drowsiness (less than older antihistamines but can occur)
• Dizziness
• Tiredness or fatigue

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Abdominal pain
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Severe skin reaction such as blistering or peeling
• Irregular or fast heartbeat
• Fainting or severe dizziness

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Bilastine 20 mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available in India only with a valid doctor's prescription.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to bilastine or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Are under 12 years of age, unless specifically advised by a doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney problems
• Have a heart condition, especially irregular heartbeat
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as you may be more sensitive to side effects
• Are taking any other allergy medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Ketoconazole and erythromycin, which may increase blood levels of bilastine
• Diltiazem, a heart medicine
• Ritonavir and other drugs affecting drug transport in the body
• Other sedating antihistamines or medicines causing drowsiness
• St. John's Wort and certain herbal supplements

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive or operate machinery after taking this medicine?

Most people do not feel drowsy, but a few may feel sleepy, so check how you react before driving.

Can I take this medicine with food?

It is best taken on an empty stomach, as food can reduce its absorption.

How long can I take this medicine for?

• Duration depends on your condition; follow your doctor's advice on how long to continue.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.