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Bilastine: uses, side effects & brands
Bilastine is a newer non-drowsy antihistamine for allergies and hives. It belongs to the Antihistamine (allergy) group. Antihistamines relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose and hives.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Antihistamine (allergy) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Hay fever and allergic rhinitis
- Chronic hives (urticaria)
- Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms such as itchy eyes
Common brand names
- India: Bilagram, Blorm, Bilafast
- Worldwide: Bilaxten, Ilaxten
Common side effects
- Headache
- Drowsiness (uncommon)
- Tiredness
Before taking it — precautions
- Take on an empty stomach — avoid food and fruit juice around the dose
- Tell your doctor about kidney problems or other medicines
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding — check with your doctor
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe allergy — swelling or breathing difficulty (urgent)
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Fainting
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of bilastine depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Why take bilastine on an empty stomach?
Food and fruit juice reduce how much is absorbed, so it is taken away from meals.
Is bilastine non-drowsy?
It causes little or no drowsiness in most people.
Can I take it for hives?
Yes, it is used for chronic hives; your doctor will guide how long.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.