Mizolastine Tablets: Guide To Dosage, Benefits & Side Effects
Comprehensive guide to Mizolastine (Mizollen): uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information for allergy relief.
Mizolastine, marketed as Mizollen, is a second-generation non-sedating antihistamine used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and urticaria. It selectively blocks peripheral H1 receptors and has mast cell-stabilizing properties, providing relief from itching, sneezing, runny nose, and skin hives without significant drowsiness.
About Mizolastine Tablets
Mizolastine tablets, commonly known under the brand name Mizollen, belong to the class of non-sedating antihistamines. These medications are designed to alleviate allergy symptoms by antagonizing histamine H1 receptors, which are responsible for allergic responses like inflammation and itching. Unlike first-generation antihistamines, Mizolastine crosses the blood-brain barrier minimally, reducing sedation risks.
The tablets are film-coated, typically 10 mg strength, and rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract with a bioavailability of about 65%. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 1.5 hours, and the elimination half-life is approximately 13 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.
Mizolastine is indicated for seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic or acute urticaria. It is available internationally under brands like Mizolen, Zolim, and Zolistan, though availability varies by region.
Key facts
- Non-sedating: Minimal drowsiness compared to older antihistamines.
- Dosage: 10 mg once daily for adults and children over 12 years.
- Onset: Relief starts within 1 hour; duration up to 24 hours.
- Not for: Children under 12, severe liver/heart disease, or with QT-prolonging drugs.
- Pregnancy: Use only if benefits outweigh risks; caution in breastfeeding.
About allergies
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, releasing histamine. This causes symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose in allergic rhinitis, or raised itchy welts in urticaria. Antihistamines like Mizolastine block histamine action, reducing these symptoms effectively.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is triggered by pollen, while perennial form persists year-round from indoor allergens. Urticaria can be acute (less than 6 weeks) or chronic, often idiopathic.
Types of tablets
Mizolastine is available as 10 mg film-coated tablets for oral use. Modified-release formulations may exist in some markets, but standard tablets are taken once daily with or without food.
How and when to take Mizolastine
Take one 10 mg tablet daily, swallowed whole with water, at the same time each day. It can be with or between meals. For best results, start treatment before allergen exposure or at symptom onset.
Missed dose: Take as soon as remembered unless near next dose; do not double up.
Duration: Use as directed, typically until symptoms resolve. Long-term use for chronic conditions under medical supervision.
Dosage
| Group | Dosage |
|---|---|
| Adults (18+ years) | 10 mg once daily |
| Children (12-17 years) | 10 mg once daily |
| Children under 12 years | Not recommended |
| Elderly | 10 mg once daily; monitor for side effects |
Adjust in mild-moderate liver impairment; avoid in severe cases.
How it works
Mizolastine selectively antagonizes peripheral H1 histamine receptors, preventing histamine-mediated effects like smooth muscle contraction and increased vascular permeability. It also stabilizes mast cells, reducing further histamine release. Metabolized by CYP3A4 and glucuronidation into inactive metabolites; 98.4% plasma protein bound.
Who can and cannot take it
Who can take Mizolastine
- Adults and adolescents over 12 with allergic rhinitis or urticaria.
- Those without contraindications like heart rhythm issues.
Who cannot take it
- Patients with severe heart disease, arrhythmias, QT prolongation, bradycardia, or electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalaemia).
- Severe hepatic impairment.
- Concomitant use with macrolides (erythromycin), imidazoles (ketoconazole), or QT-prolonging drugs.
- Children under 12 years.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Limited data; use only if clearly needed. Animal studies show no teratogenicity, but caution advised.
Breastfeeding: Enters breast milk; weigh risks vs. benefits. Consider alternatives.
Side effects
Most side effects are mild. Common ones include:
- Gastrointestinal: Dry mouth, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia.
- Nervous system: Headache, dizziness, transient drowsiness.
- General: Fatigue (asthenia), weight gain from increased appetite.
Serious (rare): QT prolongation, CNS depression. Seek immediate help for irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or allergic reactions (rash, swelling).
Monitor liver enzymes; rare increases reported.
Caution with other medicines
Avoid with drugs prolonging QT interval (Class I/III antiarrhythmics, some antibiotics/antifungals). Ketoconazole and erythromycin increase Mizolastine levels via CYP3A4 inhibition.
| Drug Class | Risk |
|---|---|
| Macrolides (e.g., erythromycin) | Potentially fatal QT prolongation |
| Imidazole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) | Increased plasma levels |
| QT-prolonging agents | Arrhythmia risk |
Common questions
Will it make me drowsy?
Less sedating than first-generation antihistamines, but transient drowsiness possible, especially in elderly. Avoid driving if affected.
Can I drink alcohol?
Limit alcohol; may enhance drowsiness.
How long until it works?
Onset within 1 hour; full effect in days for chronic use.
Can I stop suddenly?
No rebound issues; taper if long-term under advice.
Storage
Below 25°C, dry place, out of reach of children.
Related medicines
- Cetirizine (Zirtek): Similar non-sedating H1 blocker.
- Loratadine (Claritin): Once-daily allergy relief.
- Fexofenadine (Telfast): Non-sedating for rhinitis/urticaria.
Further reading and references
For more on allergies, consult official health resources.
References
- Mizolastine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More — MIMS Singapore. 2023. https://www.mims.com/singapore/drug/info/mizolastine
- Mizolastine – Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions — Medindia. 2024. https://www.medindia.net/doctors/drug_information/mizolastine.htm
- Mizolastine: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action — DrugBank Online. 2024-01-15. https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB12523
- MIZOLLEN TABLETS 10 mg Film-coated tablets — Israel Ministry of Health. 2023. https://mohpublic.z6.web.core.windows.net/IsraelDrugs/Rishum01_8_212133323.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Mizolastine used for?
A: Mizolastine treats allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and urticaria symptoms like sneezing, itching, and hives.
Q: Is Mizolastine safe for children?
A: Approved for ages 12+ at 10 mg daily; not for under 12.
Q: Does Mizolastine cause weight gain?
A: Possible due to increased appetite; monitor diet.
Q: Can I take Mizolastine with other allergy meds?
A: Consult doctor; avoid combining with sedating antihistamines.
Q: What if I have liver problems?
A: Caution in mild-moderate; contraindicated in severe impairment.
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