Labixten (Bilastine 20mg) 30 Tablets/ Pack

General information

What is Labixten used for?

Labixten tablets 20mg contain the active substance bilastine which is an antihistamine. It is used to:

 • relieve the symptoms of hay fever (sneezing, itchy, runny, blocked-up nose and red and watery eyes) and other forms of allergic rhinitis.

 • treat itchy skin rashes (hives or urticaria).

How does Labixten work?

Labixten 20mg tablets contain the active ingredient bilastine, a second-generation, non-sedating antihistamine designed to provide 24-hour relief from allergic symptoms. It works by blocking the effects of histamine in the body. 

Mechanism of Action:

• Selective H1-Receptor Antagonist: Bilastine is a highly selective antagonist for the histamine H1-receptor. When you are exposed to allergens (like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites), your body releases histamine, causing symptoms. Bilastine blocks the H1 receptors, preventing histamine from attaching to them and triggering symptoms.
• High Affinity: Bilastine binds with high affinity to H1-receptors, which makes it highly effective at inhibiting histamine-mediated reactions.
• Peripherally Selective: Unlike older antihistamines, bilastine is "peripherally selective," meaning it does not easily cross the blood-brain barrier. This specificity reduces unwanted side effects like sedation, making it "non-drowsy" for most users. 

Key Effects and Characteristics:

• Fast-Acting: The effects of bilastine are noticed as early as one hour after taking the medication.
• 24-Hour Relief: It provides long-lasting relief that lasts for 24 hours, suitable for once-daily dosing.
• Reduces Symptoms: It is effective in treating itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and skin reactions like hives (urticaria).
• Low Metabolism: Bilastine does not undergo significant metabolism in the human body, meaning it is largely excreted unchanged, which reduces the risk of drug interactions. 

What does Labixten contain?

Labixten tablets 20mg contain the active substance bilastine.

Labixten tablets 20mg also contain microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, colloidal silicon dioxide and magnesium stearate.

What are the side effects of Labixten?

Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while taking Labixten tablets 20mg.

 Possible mild side effects of Labixten:

 • headache • drowsiness • dizziness • mild stomach upsets such as stomach pain, belly pain, nausea or diarrhoea • indigestion • tiredness • increased appetite • increased weight • dry or uncomfortable nose • thirst and dry mouth • itching • fever • cold sores

Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the following: • irregular heartbeat • anxiety • vertigo (a feeling of dizziness or spinning) • difficulty in breathing • tinnitus (ringing in the ears) These are serious side effects of Labixten tablets 20mg that may require medical attention.

If any of the following happen, tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital:

 • swelling of the face, lip, mouth or throat which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing • swelling and redness of the skin

 • collapsing or losing consciousness

These are very serious side effects. If you notice any of them, you may have had a serious allergic reaction to Labixten tablets 20mg. You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalisation. These side effects are rare.

When should Labixten not be used?

Do not take Labixten tablets 20mg if you are allergic to bilastine or any of the ingredients in this medication. Talk to your Healthcare professional before taking Labixten if you have moderate or severe renal impairment.

Warnings and precautions:

Children and adolescents: Do not give this medicine to children under 12 years of age. Taking other medicines: Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including any that you get without a prescription.

In particular, discuss with your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:

• Ketoconazole (an antifungal medicine)
• Erythromycin (an antibiotic)
• Diltiazem (to treat angina)
• Cyclosporine (to reduce the activity of your immune system)
• Ritonavir (to treat HIV/AIDS)
• Rifampicin (an antibiotic)

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility: There is very limited amount of data available on Labixten’s use in pregnant women, during breast-feeding and on the effects on fertility. Consult your Healthcare Professional before taking Labixten if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or are planning to have a baby.

Effects on ability to drive or use machinery: Labixten is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or use machines. However a few people may experience drowsiness, so care should be taken

How should Labixten be given?

Adults and children 12 years and over: Take one tablet daily with a glass of water for as long as required.

 Take your tablet on an empty stomach, either at least one hour before or two hours after having food or fruit juice.

Do not give this medicine to children under 12 years of age.

How long should Labixten be given?

You can stop taking Labixten tablets 20mg when you obtain relief from your symptoms. It can be restarted if your symptoms recur. Speak to your Healthcare Professional if you are unsure how long you should take Labixten tablets 20mg for. If symptoms persist, consult your Healthcare Professional.

Missed dose of Labixten?

If you forget to take Labixten tablets 20mg, take it as soon as you remember and then take your next tablet at the usual time.

 If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take the next tablet at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

How should Labixten be stored?

You should store your Labixten tablets 20mg in a cool, dry place away from sunlight where the temperature stays below 30°C.