Bilastine helps relieve allergy symptoms such as runny nose, itch, watery eyes, and sneezing.
This medicine also helps relieve allergic skin conditions such as hives and itchy rash.
Take Bilastine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Bilastine is available as a tablet, orodispersible tablet, or oral solution.
If you are taking the tablet, swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
To take the orodispersible tablet, follow these steps:
- Remove it from the foil only just before you take it. Do not leave the orodispersible tablet exposed to air. Do not push the orodispersible tablet through the foil as it is fragile and easily broken.
- Remove the orodispersible tablet with dry hands by peeling the backing off the foil and tipping the tablet onto your dry hands.
- Place the orodispersible tablet directly on your tongue as soon as it is taken out of the foil. The orodispersible tablet will immediately start to melt on the tongue. It can then be swallowed with or without water. Alternatively, you may dissolve the orodispersible tablet in a teaspoon of water before taking it.
Do not cut, break, or crush the orodispersible tablets.
If you are taking an oral solution, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- kidney disease
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child (6 years old and above). Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Bilastine may cause drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: dry mouth, thirst, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and itch.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- ketoconazole (medicine for fungal infection)
- erythromycin (antibiotic)
- ciclosporin (medicine used in organ transplant or certain immune disorders)
- ritonavir (medicine for HIV infection)
- diltiazem (medicine for heart disease)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Bilastine.
Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid excessive consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice or other fruit juices (more than 1 litre a day).
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.