Biltal M Tab

BILTAL M TAB

BILTAL M TAB is a combination medication manufactured by INDOCO-SPADE (Indoco Remedies Ltd.) used for the comprehensive management of allergic conditions.

Composition

BILTAL M TAB contains two active ingredients:

• Bilastine: 20 mg
• Montelukast: 10 mg

Uses

BILTAL M TAB is prescribed to treat various allergic conditions, providing dual-pathway control by targeting both histamine and leukotrienes.

• Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Effectively relieves symptoms such as sneezing, runny or blocked nose, nasal congestion, and itchy/watery eyes caused by seasonal or perennial allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.
• Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (Hives): Helps reduce wheals (raised bumps) and itching, improving skin comfort.
• Asthma Management (Adjunct Therapy): Reduces swelling and mucus in the airways, preventing airway narrowing and improving breathing, particularly when allergies exacerbate breathing discomfort. It is not intended as a rescue medicine for acute asthma attacks.
• Prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: Aids in preventing the tightening of airways that can occur during or after exercise.

Dosage and Administration

• Typical Dosage: The usual adult dose is one tablet once daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
• Method of Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew.
• Timing: For optimal absorption, take BILTAL M TAB on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after food.
• Consistency: Take the medicine at the same time each day. Evening dosing may be beneficial for night-time symptoms.
• Food and Drink Interactions: Avoid taking with fruit juices (e.g., grapefruit, orange, apple) as they can reduce the absorption of Bilastine.
• Treatment Duration: Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, even if symptoms improve.

Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, BILTAL M TAB may cause some side effects:

• Common Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, dry mouth, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, cough, nasal irritation, sore throat, skin rash, drowsiness (less common with Bilastine but possible with Montelukast), upper respiratory tract infection, fever, and otitis media (ear infection).
• Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced): Signs of severe allergic reaction (e.g., wheezing, severe rash, significant swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or difficulty breathing), severe mood or behavior changes (such as agitation, anxiety, sleep disturbances, depression, or suicidal thoughts), yellowing of the eyes or skin, persistent vomiting, severe skin reactions (blistering, peeling), or irregular heartbeat.

Precautions

• Allergies: Inform your doctor about any known allergies to Bilastine, Montelukast, or any other ingredients in the tablet.
• Liver and Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems; dose adjustment or monitoring may be necessary.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using BILTAL M TAB if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should only be used if clearly indicated and the benefits outweigh the potential risks.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If affected, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Alcohol Consumption: Limit or avoid alcohol intake as it may increase the risk of drowsiness and dizziness.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Avoid taking with indigestion medicines containing magnesium or aluminum as they can reduce effectiveness. Potential interactions with phenytoin, rifampicin, and certain antifungal medications have been noted.
• Neuropsychiatric Effects: Report any new or worsening mood or behavior changes to your doctor immediately.
• Allergy Testing: Antihistamines, including Bilastine, can interfere with allergy test results; consult your doctor about stopping the medicine before such tests.
• Pediatric Use: BILTAL M TAB is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Storage

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine in its original blister pack.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Biltal M Tablet:

What is Biltal M Tablet used for?

Biltal M Tablet is primarily used to treat various allergic conditions, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever), seasonal and perennial allergies, and chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives). It helps relieve symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, and skin itching and rashes. It may also be used as an adjunct in managing asthma and preventing exercise-induced breathing difficulties, especially when allergies worsen respiratory discomfort.

How does Biltal M Tablet work?

Biltal M Tablet contains two active ingredients: Montelukast and Bilastine. Montelukast works by blocking leukotrienes, which are chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, swelling, and increased mucus in the airways. This action helps reduce inflammation and improves breathing. Bilastine is an antihistamine that blocks the action of histamine, a chemical responsible for causing allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, and swelling. Together, these two components target different pathways to provide comprehensive relief from allergy symptoms and inflammation.

What is the usual dosage for Biltal M Tablet?

Biltal M Tablet typically contains Bilastine 20 mg and Montelukast 10 mg. The exact dosage and duration will be prescribed by your doctor based on your condition. It is generally taken once daily and can be taken with or without food. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions.

What are the possible side effects of Biltal M Tablet?

Common side effects may include nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, or weakness. These side effects usually improve over time. In rare cases, Montelukast, one of the components, has been associated with neuropsychiatric effects such as agitation, anxiety, sleep disturbances, depression, or suicidal thoughts. If you experience any persistent or worsening side effects, especially mood or behavioral changes, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Biltal M Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Specific information regarding the safety of Biltal M Tablet during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not explicitly detailed in available public sources. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before taking this medicine.

Can Biltal M Tablet be taken with other medications?

Taking Biltal M Tablet with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants may increase the risk of drowsiness or dizziness. It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication. Always inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using Biltal M Tablet?

Inform your doctor if you have any existing liver or kidney problems, as dose adjustments or monitoring may be necessary. Since dizziness or drowsiness can occur in some individuals, exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Monitor for any mood or behavioral changes, and seek medical attention if such symptoms arise. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if your symptoms improve.

What happens if a dose of Biltal M Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns about missed doses.

How should Biltal M Tablet be stored?

Biltal M Tablet should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The storage temperature should generally be below 30ºC. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.