BILASTINE

Written By:P. Thirumal ReddyB. Pharm Reviewed By:Dr. Tejashwin AdigaMBBS

Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)

BILASTINE

Background and Date of approval BILASTINE

Bilastine is an antihistamine drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for treating allergic conditions.

Uses of BILASTINE

Bilastine is used to treat allergic rhinitis (a condition caused by nasal inflammation resulting from an immune system overreaction to airborne allergens) and chronic urticaria (long-term hives, which are raised, itchy skin welts that can occur due to various factors). This drug brings relief to individuals experiencing symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and runny nose.

How is BILASTINE administered?

Take the Bilastine as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.

Side Effects of BILASTINE

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Bilastine are headache and drowsiness. Some serious side effects include swelling of lips, face, throat, or tongue, and difficulty breathing.

Warnings

Do not take Bilastine if you are allergic to it or any other ingredients listed in the medicine's information. If you have moderate or severe renal impairment and are taking other medications, consult your physician before using the drug. This tablet is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.

Precautions

There is limited available data regarding the use of this medicine in pregnant women during breast-feeding and its effects on fertility. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, suspect you might be pregnant, or are planning to conceive, it is highly recommended to consult your physician before taking this medication.

Word of Advice

This tablet should not be taken with food or grapefruit juice or other fruit juices, as these can decrease the effectiveness of Bilastine. To ensure optimal absorption, take the tablet and wait for one hour before consuming food or juice. If you have consumed food or fruit juice, wait for two hours before taking the tablet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.

Can I take Bilastine for cold symptoms?

Bilastine is specifically designed to treat allergy symptoms and may not be as effective for cold symptoms caused by viruses. It's best suited for allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria.

Q2.

Is Bilastine sedating?

Bilastine is classified as a non-sedating antihistamine, which means it's less likely to cause drowsiness compared to some older antihistamines. However, individual responses may vary.

Q3.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Bilastine?

It's generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Bilastine, as alcohol can enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of drowsiness.

Q4.

How soon does Bilastine start working?

Bilastine starts working within about 1 to 2 hours after ingestion, providing relief from allergy symptoms.

Q5.

Can I take Bilastine if I have other medical conditions?

Before taking Bilastine, inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, such as liver or kidney problems. Your doctor will evaluate whether the medication is suitable for your situation.

References

Menarini International Operations Luxembourg S.A, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2020] [ Accessed on 25th August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4551.pdf
La Renon Healthcare Private Limited; [ Accessed on 25th August 2023], https://www.larenon.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/BILAHENZ.pdf

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.

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