Bilastine Introduction
Bilastine is a non-sedating antihistamine drug used to treat allergies. It prevents the release of substances in the body that cause an allergic reaction (such as itching, sneezing, watery eyes, and runny nose). Bilastine belongs to the family of medications called antihistamines.
Uses for Bilastine
Bilastine is used to treat the symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergies, such as sneezing; runny nose; itchy, red, watery eyes; and itchy throat or nose. It can also be used to treat cold urticaria, a condition where hives form in response to cold temperature.
Mechanism of Action
Bilastine blocks the action of histamine, a chemical that is released in response to an allergen. Histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms that come with an allergic reaction. By blocking the action of histamine, Bilastine relieves the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Bilastine typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to start working. The effects can last up to 24 hours. The effects may vary from person to person.
Absorption
Bilastine is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration.
Route of Elimination
Bilastine is eliminated from the body by hepatic metabolism and renal excretion. It is generally not detectable in the bloodstream.
Dosage
Adults & adolescents (12 years of age and over): 20 mg tablet once daily for symptomatic relief of allergic rhinitis, urticaria and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. The maximum recommended daily dose is 20 mg Bilastine (1 tablet) and should not be exceeded. If a dose is missed, the next scheduled dose should be taken. An extra dose should not be taken. 20 mg Bilastine tablet (1 tablet) once daily should be swallowed with water on an empty stomach to achieve optimal exposure to Bilastine.
Children between 6 to 11 years: 10 mg mouth dissolving tablet for the symptomatic relief of allergic rhinitis, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and urticaria. The Mouth dissolving tablet is for oral use only. It should be placed in the mouth. It will disperse rapidly in saliva and can be easily swallowed. Alternatively, the mouth dissolving tablet can be dispersed in a tea spoon of water before being swallowed by the children. The maximum recommended daily dose for children in between 6 to 11 years is 10 mg Bilastine mouth dissolving tablet (1 tablet) and should not be exceeded. If a dose is missed, the next scheduled dose should be taken. An extra dose should not be taken.
Children between 2 to 11 years: 4 ml once daily.
The recommended adult dose of Bilastine should not exceed 20 mg per day. The dose can be adjusted depending on the symptoms and the patient’s response.
Administration
Bilastine should be taken orally with or without food. It can also be taken as a single daily dose or in divided doses as directed by the doctor.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Bilastine may include nausea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness. Additionally, Bilastine may cause dry mouth, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
Toxicity
The toxicity of Bilastine is low when taken as directed. If taken in high doses, Bilastine can cause drowsiness and brain fog.
Precaution
Bilastine should be used with caution in patients with liver and kidney diseases, as well as in patients taking other medications. Patients should also refrain from driving or engaging in hazardous activities if they experience drowsiness due to taking Bilastine .
Interaction
Bilastine may interact with certain medications, so it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. It may also interact with alcohol and certain foods.
Disease Interaction
Bilastine may interact with certain diseases such as pre-existing liver or kidney impairments, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, epilepsy, asthma, and urinary retention.
Drug Interaction
Bilastine may interact with certain drugs such as antacids, opiates (codeine, hydrocodone etc.), cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics, antifungals, and monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Food Interaction
Bilastine may interact with certain foods such as grapefruit juice, alcohol, and dairy products.
Pregnancy Use
Bilastine is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
Lactation Use
Bilastine is not recommended for lactating women.
Acute Overdose
Symptoms of an acute overdose may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, fatigue, and abdominal pain. If an acute overdose occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Contraindication
Bilastine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Bilastine or any other ingredients of the formulation.
Use Direction
Bilastine should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. It should be taken orally with or without food.
Storage Condition
Bilastine should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light, heat and moisture.
Volume of Distribution
Bilastine has a volume of distribution of 5.2 L/kg.
Half-Life
The half-life of Bilastine is approximately 16 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of Bilastine is 7.3 ml/min/kg.
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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Bilastine
*** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.