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Rupatadine: uses, side effects & brands
Rupatadine treats allergic rhinitis and chronic hives. It belongs to the Antihistamine (extra) group. More antihistamines for allergy symptoms, mostly low-drowsiness.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Antihistamine (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Year-round allergic rhinitis
- Chronic hives (urticaria)
Common brand names
- India: Rupanex, Rupared, Alrup
- Worldwide: Rupafin
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Dry mouth
Before taking it — precautions
- Avoid grapefruit juice, which raises its levels
- Tell your doctor if you take ketoconazole, erythromycin, statins or medicines that affect heart rhythm
- Tell your doctor about heart-rhythm problems, liver or kidney disease, pregnancy or breastfeeding
When to see a doctor urgently
- Fast or irregular heartbeat or fainting (urgent)
- Swelling of face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing (urgent)
- Severe drowsiness or confusion
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of rupatadine 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 should I avoid grapefruit juice?
Grapefruit slows the breakdown of rupatadine, which can increase side effects.
Is it drowsy?
It is a newer antihistamine, but some people do feel sleepy. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
How is it different from other antihistamines?
Besides blocking histamine, it also blocks another allergy chemical (PAF), which may help with hives.
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.