Bilastine Discontinuation Before Attempting Conception
Bilastine should be discontinued at least one month before attempting to conceive to minimize any potential risks to early fetal development. 1
Rationale for Discontinuation
Bilastine is a second-generation H1 antihistamine used for treating allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and urticaria. While not extensively studied in pregnancy, preconception care guidelines recommend discontinuing medications that aren't essential for maternal health when alternatives exist.
The recommendation to stop bilastine one month before conception is based on several factors:
- Bilastine has an elimination half-life of approximately 14 hours 2, allowing for complete clearance within the one-month timeframe
- The American College of Cardiology recommends discontinuing medications that may affect pregnancy 1-2 months before attempting conception 1
- This timeframe provides sufficient washout period to ensure the medication is fully eliminated from the body before conception occurs
Management of Allergic Conditions During Conception Attempts
If you require treatment for allergic conditions during the conception period, consider:
Non-pharmacological approaches:
- Allergen avoidance
- Saline nasal irrigation
- Environmental controls to reduce allergen exposure
Alternative medications:
- If antihistamine therapy is necessary, discuss with your healthcare provider about switching to antihistamines with better-established safety profiles in pregnancy 1
Important Considerations
- Timing is important: Take bilastine at least one hour before and no sooner than two hours after a meal to avoid interference with absorption 3
- Preconception consultation: Schedule a consultation with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive allergy management plan during conception attempts and pregnancy 1
- Medication alternatives: If you require ongoing treatment for allergic conditions, your provider can recommend safer alternatives during the conception period
Caution
While bilastine is generally well-tolerated with minimal sedative properties and no significant drug interactions 4, the precautionary approach of discontinuing it before conception is recommended since medications that could potentially affect early fetal development should be avoided when possible.
Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen, as they can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and allergy severity.