Bilastine

Bilastine is a second-generation antihistamine that belongs to the piperidine class. It is commonly used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. The drug exerts its effects by selectively antagonizing the H1 histamine receptors.

Indications

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis. It is indicated for the symptomatic relief of nasal and non-nasal symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) in patients 12 years of age and older. Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria. Bilastine is indicated for the relief of the symptoms associated with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) (e.g. pruritus and hives), in patients 18 years of age and older.

Dosage

Oral; 20 mg once a day.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity to bilastine or to any ingredient in the formulation. - History of QT prolongation and/or torsade de pointes, including congenital long QT syndromes.

Special Precautions

-It should not be used in patients with a history of QTc prolongation and/or torsade de pointes, including congenital long QT syndromes. -Paediatric: The safety and efficacy in children under 12 years of age has not been established. Pregnancy: Not indicated. -Lactation: It is unknown whether bilastine is excreted in human breast milk. -Elderly: No dosage adjustments are recommended in subjects over 65 years of age.

Side Effects

Headache, dizziness and somnolence, upper abdominal pain.

Drug Interactions

Ketoconazole, erythromycin,, lorazepam, diltiazem, QTc prolonging drugs.