What it does
Rupatidine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms.
Commonly used for: allergic rhinitis (hay fever), urticaria (hives)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 19:47:58 · updated 2026-08-03 04:15:25
About this medicine
Rupatidine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms.
What it treats
- allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- urticaria (hives)
How it works
Rupatidine works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Who it's for
Rupatidine is suitable for adults and children who suffer from allergies.
Cautions
- • Consult a doctor if you have liver or kidney problems.
- • Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women unless advised by a doctor.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: rupatidine
BNF-referencedRupatidine is an antihistamine that functions as a dual antagonist of histamine H1 receptors and platelet activating factor (PAF) receptors. It is primarily used to alleviate symptoms associated with allergic reactions, such as nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, and itching. By blocking these receptors, rupatidine mitigates the physiological responses that contribute to allergic symptoms.
Indications
- Allergic rhinitis
- Chronic urticaria
- Other allergic conditions
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific pediatric dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines.
Mechanism of action
Rupatadine acts as a dual antagonist by blocking both histamine H1 receptors and PAF receptors. Histamine, released during an allergic response, binds to H1 receptors on target cells leading to symptoms like nasal blockage and itching. PAF, produced from phospholipids by phospholipase A2, causes vascular leakage contributing to rhinorrhea and nasal obstruction. By inhibiting both pathways, rupatidine reduces the severity of these allergic responses.
Pharmacodynamics
Rupatidine exhibits anti-allergenic properties, effectively reducing symptoms such as urticaria, rhinorrhea, sneezing, and itching by blocking the effects of histamine and PAF on their respective receptors.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of rupatidine are not detailed in the provided information. However, it is essential to note that antihistamines typically undergo absorption and distribution throughout the body, with metabolism primarily occurring in the liver and excretion through the kidneys. For specific pharmacokinetic parameters, refer to comprehensive drug references.
Adverse effects
- Somnolence
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
Precautions
- Caution in patients with a history of seizures
- Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment
Pregnancy
There are limited data on the use of rupatidine in pregnancy. Use only if clearly needed and after assessing potential risks and benefits.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether rupatidine is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding women.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Syrup
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: rupatidine
PubChem CID 133017Molecular formula: C26H26ClN3
Mechanism of action
Rupatadine is a dual histamine H1 receptor and platelet activating (PAF) receptor antagonist. During allergic response mast cells undergo degranulation, releasing histamine and other substances. Histamine acts on H1 receptors to produce symptoms of nasal blockage, rhinorhea, itching, and swelling. PAF is produced from phospholipids cleaved by phospholipase A2. It acts to produce vascular leakage which contributes to rhinorhea and nasal blockage. By blocking both the H1 receptor and PAF receptor, rupatidine prevents these mediators from exerting their effects and so reduces the severity of allergic symptoms.
Pharmacodynamics
Rupatadine is an anti allergenic and acts to reduce allergic symptoms like urticaria, rhinorrhea, sneezing and itching.
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.