Bilagra M Tablet (10 Tab)

BILAGRA M TABLET

BILAGRA M TABLET is a combination medication manufactured by Lupin Ltd., primarily used to manage various allergic conditions.

Composition

BILAGRA M TABLET contains two active ingredients:

• Bilastine (20 mg): An antihistamine that blocks histamine, a chemical responsible for allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, and swelling.
• Montelukast (10 mg): A leukotriene receptor antagonist that reduces inflammation, swelling, and mucus production in the airways.

Uses

BILAGRA M TABLET is prescribed to treat a range of allergic conditions by controlling both inflammation and allergic reactions.

• Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Relieves symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy/watery eyes.
• Seasonal Allergies: Effectively manages symptoms associated with seasonal allergens.
• Asthma Management: Helps reduce airway inflammation and may be used alongside standard asthma therapy when allergies worsen breathing discomfort or night cough.
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: Prevents tightening of the airways during or after exercise.
• Chronic Urticaria (Hives): Relieves skin hives.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage should be prescribed by a doctor and is usually taken once daily.

• Standard Dose: One tablet daily, preferably in the evening.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Timing: Take on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals, as food can affect its absorption.
• Avoid with Fruit Juices: Do not take with fruit juices (e.g., orange, apple, grapefruit) as they may reduce the effectiveness of Bilastine.

Side Effects

Common side effects are usually mild and may include:

• Headache
• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
• Fatigue, cough, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention:

• Mood or behavior changes (e.g., aggression, depression, thoughts of self-harm)
• Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing)

Precautions

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Bilagra M Tablet or any of its ingredients.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption, as it may increase drowsiness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Liver and Kidney Issues: Use with caution in patients with a history of liver or kidney diseases; dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Maintain a 2-hour gap between Bilagra M Tablet and indigestion remedies containing magnesium or aluminum, as they can reduce its effectiveness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid activities requiring mental alertness if affected.
• Children: Not recommended for children below 12 years of age.
• Acute Asthma Attacks: This medicine is not for sudden, acute asthma attacks.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Store below 30°C.

BILAGRA M TABLET (10 TAB) by LUPIN LTD.: Frequently Asked Questions

BILAGRA M TABLET is a combination medication containing Bilastine and Montelukast, primarily used to manage allergic conditions.

What is BILAGRA M TABLET used for?

BILAGRA M TABLET is used to treat various allergic conditions, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, and urticaria (hives). It helps alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, nasal congestion, itching, watery eyes, and helps prevent and manage asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. It is also used to prevent exercise-induced breathing difficulties.

How does BILAGRA M TABLET work?

BILAGRA M TABLET combines two active ingredients: Bilastine and Montelukast. Bilastine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical in the body responsible for allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and swelling. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks chemicals called leukotrienes, which reduce inflammation, swelling, and mucus production in the airways. Together, they provide comprehensive relief from both inflammation and allergic reactions.

What is the usual dosage for BILAGRA M TABLET?

The dosage of BILAGRA M TABLET should be taken as advised by your doctor. It is typically recommended to take it once daily. For optimal absorption, it's often advised to take Bilastine in the morning on an empty stomach, while Montelukast is usually taken in the evening. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Maintain a 2-hour gap between taking this medicine and consuming food or fruit juices like orange, apple, or grapefruit, as they may reduce its effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects of BILAGRA M TABLET?

Common side effects of BILAGRA M TABLET may include headache, drowsiness, fatigue, stomach pain, diarrhea, dry mouth, nausea, and upper respiratory infection. If side effects persist or worsen, it is important to consult your doctor. In rare cases, mood changes such as depression, self-harming thoughts, or aggressive behavior have been reported with Montelukast; seek medical advice immediately if these occur.

Is BILAGRA M TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

The safety of BILAGRA M TABLET during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established. It is recommended to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using this medication. It may be used only if the doctor determines that the benefits outweigh the potential risks.

Can BILAGRA M TABLET be taken with other medications?

BILAGRA M TABLET may interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions. Specifically, it may interact with:

• Drugs for high lipid levels (e.g., gemfibrozil).
• Antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin).
• Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole).
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital).
• Tuberculosis medications (e.g., rifampicin).
• Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum; maintain a 2-hour gap between taking these and BILAGRA M TABLET.
• Alcohol, as it may increase drowsiness.

What precautions should be taken?

• Do not take BILAGRA M TABLET if you are allergic to bilastine, montelukast, or any of its ingredients.
• Avoid consuming fruit juices such as orange, apple, and grapefruit with BILAGRA M TABLET, as they may reduce its effectiveness.
• Consult your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems, or a history of mental illness or psychosis.
• BILAGRA M TABLET is generally not recommended for children below 12 years of age.
• If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
• It is not meant for relief from acute asthma attacks; use appropriate rescue medicine as prescribed by your doctor.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of BILAGRA M TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next 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.

How should it be stored?

Store BILAGRA M TABLET in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.