BILASTINE,MONTELUKAST

Background and Date of Approval

Bilastine and Montelukast belongs to the medication class of antihistamines and leukotriene receptor antagonists. It is used to treat allergic rhinitis and asthma in patients with allergies.

Uses

Bilastine + Montelukast treats allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose, congestion, stuffy nose, or watery eyes) and asthma.

How is it administered?

Take the Bilastine + Montelukast as your physician advises. 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

The most common side effects of Bilastine + Montelukast are headache, drowsiness, fatigue, upper respiratory infection, fever, pharyngitis, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, influenza, rhinorrhea, and sinusitis.

Warnings

Bilastine + Montelukast should not be consumed if you are allergic to Bilastine + Montelukast or any of its ingredients in the medication. Notify your doctor if you have a kidney or liver disease because, in such conditions, this medicine should be taken cautiously. It is not recommended for use in children under the age of 6. Avoid taking grapefruit juice or other fruit juices. Patients with aspirin sensitivity should avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents while taking the medication.

Precautions

Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. It is important for patients to be alert for potential neuropsychiatric events and to report any symptoms promptly. Montelukast has been associated with systemic eosinophilia, which may resemble Churg-Strauss syndrome, especially when oral corticosteroid therapy is reduced.

Word of Advice

Inform your doctor of all underlying medical conditions before beginning treatment. Do not discontinue the medicine unless advised by your doctor. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed dose. Report any serious side effects to your doctor. Consult your doctor for additional information.

References

Exemed Pharmaceuticals, [Revised on January 2021] [Accessed on 7th July 2023], https://www.centaurpharma.com/downloads/2021/entchestphysician/cold/AllerDuo.pdf Clinicaltrials.gov, [Accessed on 27th June 2023], https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02761252 Arlak biotech, [Accessed on 7th July 2023], https://www.arlakbiotech.com/product/bilastine-20mg-montelukast-10-mg/

Frequently Asked Questions

How to manage the side effects of Bilastine + Montelukast?

To manage the side effects of Bilastine + Montelukast, follow the prescribed dosage, and report side effects promptly. Stay hydrated, and monitor blood pressure regularly. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a balanced diet and attending follow-up appointments.

Can children use Bilastine + Montelukast?

Bilastine + Montelukast is not recommended for use in children under the age of 6 because there is not enough data available to support its safety and effectiveness in this age group. The suitability of any medication depends on factors such as age, weight, and specific medical conditions.

What are the side effects of Bilastine + Montelukast?

Common side effects of Bilastine + Montelukast include headache, drowsiness, fatigue, upper respiratory infection, fever, pharyngitis, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, influenza, rhinorrhea, and sinusitis. It is crucial to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.

Can Bilastine + Montelukast be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Information regarding the usage of Bilastine + Montelukast during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown. So, it is recommended to get healthcare professionals' advice before consuming the medicine. The potential benefits and risks of the medicine should be carefully assessed.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Bilastine + Montelukast?

If you miss a tablet dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose of the Bilastine + Montelukast.

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS