Allertine (Bilastine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Allertine Used For?
Allertine is a medication that helps relieve symptoms associated with hayfever and other allergic conditions.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat symptoms of hayfever such as sneezing, itchy, runny, or blocked nose, and red, watery, itchy eyes. It can also help with itchy skin rashes.
Good to know: Allertine is a non-drowsy antihistamine, meaning it is less likely to cause sleepiness.
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How to Take Allertine
Allertine should be taken as directed to effectively manage your symptoms.
Dosage Instructions
Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over should take one tablet or meltlet (20 mg of bilastine) daily. Swallow the tablet with a glass of water on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals or fruit juices.
Important: Do not take more than the recommended dose. If symptoms persist, consult your pharmacist or doctor.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- headache
- sleepiness
- stomach pain
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of face, lips, or tongue
- sudden rash or itching
- fainting or losing consciousness
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before taking Allertine.
Who Should Not Take Allertine
Do not use Allertine if you are allergic to bilastine or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Consult your pharmacist or doctor if you have kidney problems or are taking other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant, likely to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using Allertine.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Allertine and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit juice as it may interfere with the absorption of Allertine.
- Diltiazem (for high blood pressure and angina)
- Ciclosporin (to reduce immune system activity)
- Ketoconazole (for fungal infections)
- Erythromycin (for bacterial infections)
Alcohol & Driving
Allertine does not affect driving performance in adults, but individual responses may vary.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while taking Allertine.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Check how Allertine affects you before driving or operating machinery.
Storage
Store Allertine in a cool, dry place below 30°C and keep it in its original packaging.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Allertine, seek medical attention immediately. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 in Australia or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Allertine typically starts to relieve symptoms within an hour.
It is recommended to take Allertine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
No, Allertine is not considered addictive.
You can stop taking Allertine when you are no longer exposed to allergy triggers or have sufficient symptom relief.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while taking Allertine.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor before taking Allertine, especially if they have any pre-existing conditions.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.