escription

Rupatadine is a non-sedating antiallergic compound which displays strong antagonist activity towards both histamine H1 receptors and Platelet- Activating Factor (PAF) receptors. PAF and histamine are known to complement and promote secretion of each other. PAF induces vasodilatation and an increase in vascular permeability, which may be responsible for the appearance of rhinorrhoea and nasal congestion. PAF may have a major role in the late phase allergic reaction. Rupatadine’s PAF antagonistic activity represents the likely mechanism behind the inhibition of eosinophil migration which has been suggested to be beneficial in the treatment of chronic urticaria.

Indications

Rupatadine is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of Seasonal & Perennial Allergic Rhinitis and Urticaria.
Dosage & Administration

Rupatadine Tablet: The recommended dosage is 10 mg once daily, with or without food.

Rupatadine Oral Solution (Children aged 2 to 11 year):

    Children weighing 25 kg or more: 1 teaspoonful (5 ml) of oral solution once daily with or without food.
    Children weighing equal or more than 10 kg to less than 25 kg: 1/2 teaspoonful (2.5 ml) oral solution once daily with or without food.

Interaction
CYP3A4 inhibitors like Erythromycin & Ketoconazole inhibits both the presystemic and systemic metabolism of Rupatadine. Due to this potential interaction, it is not recommended to use Rupatadine in combination with Ketoconazole, macrolides or any other inhibitors of CYP3A4. Co administration of Rupatadine and CNS depressants or alcohol may increase CNS depressant effect.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to Rupatadine or to any of the excipients.
Side Effects
The most common undesirable effects occurs somnolence, headache and fatigue. Other common undesirable effects include dizziness, asthenia and increase appetite.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy category B2 (by TGA, Australia). There is no clinical data available on the exposure of Rupatadine during pregnancy. Pregnant women should therefore not use Rupatadine, unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk for the fetus. No information is available, whether Rupatadine is excreted in the mother’s milk. Therefore, it should not be used during lactation, unless the potential benefits for the mother justify the potential risk to the infant.