Bilachek M Tab

BILACHEK M Tablet

BILACHEK M Tablet, manufactured by Mankind Pharma Ltd., is a combination medication designed to provide comprehensive relief from allergic conditions.

Composition

Each tablet of BILACHEK M contains:

• Bilastine (20 mg): A non-sedating, second-generation antihistamine that blocks histamine activity at H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and redness of eyes.
• Montelukast (10 mg): A leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks leukotrienes, chemicals involved in allergic reactions, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways and nasal passages.

Uses

BILACHEK M Tablet is primarily used for the management of symptoms associated with:

• Allergic Rhinitis: Including seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, providing relief from nasal and ocular symptoms such as sneezing, runny or itchy nose, nasal congestion, and itchy or watery eyes.
• Asthma Management: Helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, making breathing easier, and can be used alongside standard asthma therapy when allergies worsen breathing discomfort.
• Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (Hives): Reduces wheals (raised bumps) and itching.

Dosage and Administration

The typical dosage is one tablet once daily, as directed by a healthcare professional. It can be taken with or without food, but some sources suggest taking it on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food) to optimize Bilastine absorption and avoiding fruit juices around dosing. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew or crush it. Consistency in taking the medicine at the same time each day is recommended for optimal effect.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Fatigue/Drowsiness/Dizziness
• Abdominal pain/Stomach discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Upper respiratory infection, cough, sore throat
• Dry mouth

Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing) and neuropsychiatric effects such as mood or behavior changes (e.g., aggression, depression, suicidal thoughts). Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use with caution and only if clearly necessary, after consulting a doctor to weigh potential risks and benefits.
• Liver and Kidney Disease: Caution is advised for patients with liver or kidney impairment; dose adjustment or monitoring may be required.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid such activities if affected.
• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to bilastine, montelukast, or any other ingredients.
• Other Conditions: Not indicated for acute asthmatic attacks. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, including hereditary problems like galactose intolerance.

Storage

Store BILACHEK M Tablet below 30°C. Protect it from light and moisture. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date before use.

Frequently Asked Questions about BILACHEK M TAB

What is BILACHEK M TAB used for?

BILACHEK M TAB is a combination medication primarily used to manage symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. It helps relieve nasal and ocular symptoms such as sneezing, itchy or runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy or watery eyes. It is effective for both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis and can also be used to manage chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives). Additionally, it may be used as an adjunct to standard asthma therapy when allergies worsen breathing discomfort.

How does BILACHEK M TAB work?

BILACHEK M TAB contains two active ingredients: Bilastine (20 mg) and Montelukast (10 mg). Bilastine is a non-sedating, second-generation antihistamine that works by blocking the activity of histamine at H1 receptors in your body, thereby reducing allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and red eyes. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks the action of leukotrienes, chemicals produced during an allergic reaction that cause inflammation, swelling, and mucus production in the airways of the lungs and nasal passages. By inhibiting these actions, Montelukast helps alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma. The combination of these two ingredients provides comprehensive relief by targeting two key mediators of the allergic response.

What is the usual dosage for BILACHEK M TAB?

The usual adult dose of BILACHEK M TAB is one tablet once daily, or as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, but it is often recommended to take it on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after food, for optimal absorption of Bilastine. It's important to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water and not to chew or crush it. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and duration, as it can vary based on the severity of your condition and your response to the medicine.

What are the possible side effects of BILACHEK M TAB?

Common side effects of BILACHEK M TAB include headache, fatigue, dizziness, upper respiratory infection (which may cause a runny nose, sore throat, and cough), abdominal pain, diarrhea, and dry mouth. Less common or rare side effects can include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and changes in mood or behavior (such as agitation, anxiety, sleep disturbances, depression, or suicidal thoughts) associated with Montelukast. If you experience any severe side effects or if common side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Is BILACHEK M TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

BILACHEK M TAB should be used during pregnancy only if clearly necessary and as advised by a doctor after weighing the benefits against the potential risks. Caution is also advised when BILACHEK M TAB is given to a nursing woman, as it is unknown whether the active ingredients are excreted in human milk. It is best to consult your doctor before starting this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can BILACHEK M TAB be taken with other medications?

BILACHEK M TAB can interact with certain medications. For example, Montelukast may interact with medicines like phenytoin or fluconazole. Taking it with other antihistamines or sedatives may increase drowsiness. Indigestion medicines containing magnesium or aluminum should be taken at least 2 hours apart from BILACHEK M TAB, as they can reduce its effectiveness. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken when using BILACHEK M TAB?

Avoid taking BILACHEK M TAB if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, as dosage adjustments or monitoring may be required. Avoid consuming grapefruit juice or other fruit juices (like orange or apple) around the time of taking the medication, as they can reduce Bilastine absorption and effectiveness. Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness. If you experience mood changes, agitation, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, seek medical help immediately. This medicine is not recommended for children below 12 years of age.

What happens if a dose of BILACHEK M TAB is missed?

If you forget to take your regular dose of BILACHEK M TAB, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed tablet.

How should BILACHEK M TAB be stored?

BILACHEK M TAB should be stored below 30°C (or 25°C), in a cool, dry place. Protect it from light and moisture to preserve its efficacy. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date before using the medicine.