Bepotastine Besilate
Indications
Bepotastine Besilate is an antihistamine used in two forms. As eye drops it relieves itching of the eyes caused by allergic conjunctivitis (allergy affecting the clear lining of the eye). As tablets it is used for allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny or blocked nose from allergy), urticaria (hives) and itching from skin conditions such as eczema.
How It Works
Bepotastine blocks histamine H1 receptors, so histamine released during an allergic reaction cannot cause itching, redness and sneezing. It also helps stabilise mast cells (cells that release histamine) and reduces the movement of inflammatory cells into the affected area. It causes little drowsiness compared with older antihistamines.
Dosage and Administration
- Eye drops (1.5%): 1 drop into each affected eye twice a day.
- Tablets: usually 10 mg twice a day for adults, as prescribed.
For eye drops, wash your hands, avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye, and remove contact lenses before use; wait at least 10 minutes before putting them back. Children's doses should be set by a doctor.
Interactions
No important interactions are known for the eye drops. With tablets, alcohol and other sedating medicines may add to any drowsiness. If you use other eye drops, leave at least 5 minutes between them.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Bepotastine or any ingredient in the product.
Side Effects
- Eye drops: a mild taste in the mouth after use, brief eye irritation, headache
- Tablets: drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, stomach discomfort
- Rarely, changes in liver blood tests
Get urgent medical help if you have severe eye pain, sudden change in vision, swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is limited information about use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use only if a doctor considers the benefit greater than the possible risk. Eye drops reach the body in very small amounts.
Precautions and Warnings
Eye drops are for use in the eye only and should not be used to treat irritation from contact lenses. Tablets may cause drowsiness in some people, so take care when driving. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, as tablet doses may need adjusting.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely with eye drops. If many tablets are swallowed, drowsiness may occur; contact a doctor for advice.
Therapeutic Class
Second-generation antihistamine (H1 blocker) with mast cell stabilising action.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Discard eye drops 4 weeks after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Bepotastine Besilate