Bilastine tablets and liquid medicine

Overview

Bilastine is an antihistamine used to treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, and skin rashes. It is commonly prescribed for hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and hives (urticaria).

It is available on prescription from a doctor or pharmacist.

Bilastine works by stopping the effects of a substance called histamine, a chemical released by the body when it is exposed to allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. This helps relieve symptoms such as itching, sneezing, watery eyes, and hives.

The most common side effects of bilastine are:

• Feeling sleepy.

• Headache.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the tablets, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

Bilastine may not be suitable for everyone. Before you start taking bilastine it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have epilepsy.

• If you have a rare inherited blood disorder called porphyria.

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to another antihistamine, or to any other medicine.

• Read the leaflet before use. It contains important information about bilastine and its possible side effects.

• Take bilastine exactly as prescribed.

  • Adults and children aged 12 years and over: Take one 20 mg tablet once daily. Swallow the tablet whole with water.

  • Children aged 6-11 years: May be prescribed 10 mg melt-in-the-mouth tablets or a liquid medicine. Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

• Take bilastine on an empty stomach. Take it at least 1 hour before food or 2 hours after food. Food can make bilastine less effective.

• Avoid fruit juice around the time of your dose. Do not drink fruit juice, especially grapefruit juice, for 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking bilastine, as it can reduce how well the medicine works.

• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember. Make sure your stomach is empty when you take it. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

• Many people only need to take an antihistamine when they have symptoms. Unless you are told otherwise, you should stop taking bilastine once your symptoms have eased.

• Although bilastine is classed as a non-drowsy antihistamine, it can still cause drowsiness in a few people. If this happens to you, do not drive and do not use tools or machines.

• If you drink alcohol while you are on bilastine, be aware of its effects on you and do not drink more than moderate amounts. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects from antihistamines.

• If you are having an operation, or any treatment or tests (particularly if it is to test for an allergy), make sure you say that you are taking an antihistamine.

• If you buy any medicines 'over the counter', check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with an antihistamine. This is because a number of other medicines can increase the risk of side effects. How to store bilastine tablets

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  

How quickly does bilastine work?

Bilastine usually starts to relieve allergy symptoms within 1-2 hours of taking a dose. Its allergy-relieving effects usually last for 24 hours.

Can I take bilastine every day?

Yes. Bilastine is designed for regular daily use to help control allergy symptoms. Take it exactly as prescribed and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Can I take bilastine with other allergy medicines?

Bilastine can sometimes be used alongside other allergy treatments, such as steroid nasal sprays or allergy eye drops. However, you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining it with other antihistamines.

Can I drink alcohol while taking bilastine?

Bilastine is not known to interact significantly with alcohol, but alcohol may increase drowsiness in some people. Take care until you know how the medicine affects you.