Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/22/2025

Non-Sedating Properties of Bilastine

Classification and Mechanism

  • Bilastine's peripheral action is sufficient for treating allergic conditions, unlike first-generation antihistamines that require CNS penetration for efficacy in conditions like motion sickness, according to Praxis Medical Insights 1

Clinical Context: Comparison to Other Second-Generation Antihistamines

  • Bilastine is considered truly non-sedating at recommended doses, similar to fexofenadine, loratadine, and desloratadine, as stated by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 2, 3
  • Cetirizine may cause sedation at recommended doses, with a sedation rate of 13.7% compared to 6.3% for placebo, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 2, 3

REFERENCES

1

Motion Sickness Management [LINK]

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025