Beltas Forte Tab

BELTAS FORTE TAB by GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LTD

Name

Common Name: Beltas Forte Tablet Brand Name: BELTAS FORTE TAB by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Composition

BELTAS FORTE TAB contains Bilastine (40 mg) as its active ingredient. Bilastine acts as a histamine H1 receptor antagonist, blocking the action of histamine, a chemical messenger released during allergic reactions, thereby reducing inflammation and itching.

Uses

BELTAS FORTE TAB is primarily used for managing symptoms of:

• Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): This includes symptoms such as sneezing, itchy, runny, or blocked-up nose, and red or watery eyes.
• Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (Hives): It helps in alleviating itchy skin rashes, including wheals (raised, itchy patches). It also provides relief from general allergic reactions, reducing discomfort, swelling, and inflammation.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults & Adolescents (12 years of age and over): The recommended dose is one 40 mg tablet once daily.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. It should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally at least one hour before or two hours after food or fruit juice, as food can reduce its effectiveness. Do not chew or crush the tablet.

Side Effects

Common side effects of BELTAS FORTE TAB may include:

• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Nasal rhinitis (nasal irritation)
• Allergic conjunctivitis (eye irritation)
• Sore throat

Most of these side effects are temporary and generally resolve without medical attention. Consult your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Caution is advised. Consult a doctor before use, as limited information is available regarding its safety during pregnancy, and caution is recommended during breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it can enhance drowsiness and impair coordination.
• Driving & Operating Machinery: BELTAS FORTE TAB may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some individuals. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Kidney Impairment: Use with caution in patients with moderate to severe kidney impairment. It is not recommended for severe kidney failure (creatinine clearance less than 10 ml/min).
• Liver Conditions: Can be taken safely by individuals with mild to severe liver conditions; no specific dosage adjustments are typically required, but discuss your liver health with your doctor.
• Heart Problems: Not recommended for patients with a history of irregular heartbeats. Use with caution if you have a personal or family history of heart problems.
• Allergies: Do not take this medicine if you have a known allergy to bilastine or any other ingredients in the tablet.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. Caution is advised with medicines like ketoconazole, erythromycin, Diltiazem, and Ritonavir. Avoid antacids 30 minutes before or after taking BELTAS FORTE TAB, as they may hinder its absorption.
• Allergy Testing: Discontinue BELTAS FORTE TAB at least three days prior to an allergy test, as it can interfere with test results.
• Children: BELTAS FORTE TAB (40 mg) is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.
• Elderly Patients: Can be taken without dosage adjustment, but medical supervision is advised due to potential increased susceptibility to side effects.

Storage

Store BELTAS FORTE TAB at room temperature, ideally between 15-30°C. Protect the medicine from light and moisture to maintain its efficacy. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

What is BELTAS FORTE TAB used for?

BELTAS FORTE TAB is primarily used to relieve symptoms of hay fever and other forms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, itching, a runny or stuffy nose, and red or watery eyes. It is also used to manage itchy skin rashes, also known as hives or urticaria.

How does BELTAS FORTE TAB work?

BELTAS FORTE TAB contains Bilastine, an antihistamine. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical messenger produced by the immune system that triggers allergic reactions. By inhibiting histamine from binding to its receptors, it helps reduce inflammation and allergic symptoms. It is considered a non-sedating antihistamine, meaning it aims to minimize drowsiness.

What is the usual dosage for BELTAS FORTE TAB?

The typical recommended dose for BELTAS FORTE TAB (40 mg) is one tablet taken once a day. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water on an empty stomach, ideally at least one hour before eating or two hours after meals or fruit juices, as food can decrease its effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects of BELTAS FORTE TAB?

Common side effects may include headache, drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, nasal irritation (rhinitis), allergic conjunctivitis (eye irritation), stomach pain, sore throat, and nausea. If any side effects worsen or persist, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Is BELTAS FORTE TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

BELTAS FORTE TAB is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as a precautionary measure due to limited safety information. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor. For breastfeeding women, caution is advised, and it should be used only after consulting a doctor, as it is unknown if the medicine passes into human milk or passes in limited quantities.

Can BELTAS FORTE TAB be taken with other medications?

BELTAS FORTE TAB can interact with certain medications, including antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), antibacterials (e.g., erythromycin, rifampicin), anti-anginals (e.g., diltiazem), immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine), anti-retrovirals (e.g., ritonavir), and anticonvulsants (e.g., pregabalin). It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using BELTAS FORTE TAB?

It should be taken on an empty stomach, avoiding food, grapefruit juice, or other fruit juices, as they can decrease its effect. Use with caution if you have moderate to severe kidney impairment or a history of heart problems, including irregular heartbeats. This medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Alcohol consumption should be avoided or limited as it may enhance drowsiness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating machinery. Discontinue the medication at least three days before an allergy test, as it can affect test results.

What happens if a dose of BELTAS FORTE TAB 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 one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should BELTAS FORTE TAB be stored?

BELTAS FORTE TAB should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 15-30°C or below 30°C, and protected from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children and pets.