Billi 20 is a prescription medication containing Bilastine, a second-generation antihistamine used primarily for the symptomatic relief of allergic conditions. It is a highly selective peripheral H1 receptor antagonist that works by blocking the effects of histamine, the chemical responsible for allergy symptoms. Produced by Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd., this medication is favored for its long-acting and non-sedating properties.
What is Billi 20 Used For?
Billi 20 mg is prescribed for the management of:
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Allergic Rhinitis: Relief of seasonal and perennial symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion.
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Allergic Rhinoconjunctivitis: Management of itchy, red, and watery eyes associated with hay fever.
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Urticaria: Symptomatic treatment of itchy skin rashes and hives.
Clinical Insight: Bilastine is noted for its high affinity for H1 receptors—up to 3 times higher than Cetirizine. Research published in Taylor & Francis confirms that it effectively improves quality of life by controlling symptoms without the heavy sedation common in older antihistamines. For a deeper look at its molecular properties, you can review Bilastine on DrugBank.
Dosage
For adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older, the standard dosage is one 20 mg tablet once daily.
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Administration: To achieve optimal absorption, the tablet must be taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after food or fruit juice).
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Instructions: Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of 20 mg.
Common Side Effects
Billi 20 is generally well-tolerated, with an adverse event profile similar to placebo in clinical trials. Common side effects may include:
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Drowsiness (rare at standard doses)
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Fatigue or somnolence
2026 Safety Update: While Bilastine is non-sedating for most, global health reviews suggest that very rare individuals may experience drowsiness. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, patients should observe their reaction to the drug before driving or operating heavy machinery.
Important Warnings & Precautions
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Empty Stomach: Food and fruit juices (especially grapefruit juice) significantly reduce the efficacy of the drug.
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Renal Impairment: Patients with moderate to severe kidney issues should avoid co-administration with P-glycoprotein inhibitors (like Ketoconazole or Erythromycin).
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Alcohol: Standard doses do not typically enhance the effects of alcohol, but caution is always advised.
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Liver Health: Bilastine is not significantly metabolized by the liver, making it generally safe for patients with hepatic impairment.
Billi 20 vs. Fexo 120: Key Differences and Usage
Both are non-sedating antihistamines, but Billi (Bilastine) often shows a faster onset and longer duration of action in comparative studies.
| Feature | Billi 20 (Bilastine) | Fexo 120 (Fexofenadine) |
| Drug Class | 2nd Gen Antihistamine | 2nd Gen Antihistamine |
| Primary Use | Chronic Allergies & Urticaria | Seasonal Allergies & Itching |
| Absorption | Must be on an empty stomach | Can be taken with/without food |
| Potency | Very High H1 Affinity | High H1 Affinity |
| Common Dosage | Once Daily (20 mg) | Once or Twice Daily (120 mg) |
| Unit Price | ৳15.00 | ৳8.00 – ৳10.00 |
Billi 20 Price in Bangladesh (January 2026 Update)
The following pricing reflects the current market rates for Beximco’s Billi range.
| Product Name | Strength | Unit Price (BDT) | Strip Price (15 Tablets) |
| Billi 20 | 20 mg | ৳15.00 | ৳225.00 |
| Billi Meltab | 10 mg | ৳15.00 | ৳225.00 |
| Billi Oral Solution | 2.5mg/ml | ৳140.00 (60ml) | N/A |
Billi 20 Alternative Brands & Prices
If you are looking for an alternative to Billi 20, here are the top 10 alternatives in Bangladesh as of January 2026:
| Brand Name | Company Name | Price per Unit (BDT) |
| Bilan 20 | ACME Laboratories Ltd. | ৳15.00 |
| Bilista 20 | Square Pharmaceuticals | ৳15.00 |
| Tinabil 20 | Incepta Pharmaceuticals | ৳15.00 |
| Biltin 20 | Eskayef (SK+F) | ৳15.00 |
| Zilas 20 | Healthcare Pharmaceuticals | ৳15.00 |
| Bilastin 20 | Popular Pharmaceuticals | ৳16.00 |
| Opexa 20 | Renata PLC | ৳15.00 |
| Bilamin 20 | Ibn Sina Pharmaceuticals | ৳15.00 |
| Beltas 20 | Opsonin Pharma | ৳15.00 |
| Elargen 20 | Delta Pharma Ltd. | ৳10.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Billi 20
Q: What is the Billi 20 mg price in Bangladesh?
As of January 2026, the retail price is ৳15.00 per tablet. A 15-tablet strip costs ৳225.00.
Q: What is Billi 20 used for?
It is primarily used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose), allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (itchy/watery eyes), and urticaria (hives).
Q: What are the Billi 20 side effects?
Common side effects include headache, dizziness, and mild drowsiness. It is much less likely to cause sleepiness compared to older antihistamines.
Q: Is Billi 20 safe during pregnancy?
Limited data is available. As a precaution, it is preferable to avoid use during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. You can check the PMC Archive for clinical studies.
Q: What is the recommended Billi 20 dose?
The standard dose for adults and children over 12 is one 20 mg tablet once daily on an empty stomach.
Q: Can I take Billi 20 with food?
No. Food and fruit juices significantly reduce the drug’s absorption. Take it 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.
Q: Does Billi 20 make you sleepy?
Billi 20 is non-sedating for the vast majority of users, though rare cases of somnolence have been reported.
Q: Is Bilastine (Billi) better than Cetirizine?
Clinical studies suggest Bilastine has a similar efficacy but a significantly lower rate of drowsiness compared to Cetirizine.
Q: Are there any alternatives to Billi 20 in Bangladesh?
Yes, high-quality alternatives include Bilan 20, Bilista 20, and Tinabil 20, all priced at ৳15.00.
Disclaimer: This is educational information only (updated January 2026). Not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified physician before starting/stopping any medication.
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