💊 Dipa (Rupatadine)

Dipa is a powerful, long-acting, and non-sedating antihistamine. It is unique because it has a dual mode of action: it blocks both histamine and Platelet Activating Factor (PAF), both of which are major triggers for allergy symptoms and inflammation.

📋 Indications

• Allergic Rhinitis: Relief from seasonal (hay fever) and year-round allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

• Urticaria: Treatment of hives and itchy skin rashes.

🥄 Dosage & Administration

• Adults & Adolescents (Over 12 years): One 10 mg tablet once daily.

• Children (2 to 11 years - Oral Solution):

  • Weight 25 kg or more: 1 teaspoonful (5 ml) once daily.

  • Weight 10 kg to 25 kg: 1/2 teaspoonful (2.5 ml) once daily.

• Note: It can be taken with or without food.

⚠️ Important Food & Drug Interactions

• Grapefruit Alert: 🛑 Do not take Dipa with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as this can significantly increase the medicine's levels in your body.

• Drug Interactions: Use with caution if you are taking Ketoconazole (antifungal), Erythromycin (antibiotic), or Statins (cholesterol medicine).

• Alcohol: Use caution if consuming alcohol or other CNS depressants, as they may increase drowsiness.

⚠️ Side Effects

• Common: Feeling tired (asthenia), dizziness, or mild drowsiness.

• Uncommon: Dry throat, nausea, increased appetite, or minor stomach discomfort.

• Rare: Heart palpitations or increased heart rate.

🤰 Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Not recommended unless specifically prescribed by a doctor who has balanced the risks and benefits.

• Lactation: Use is generally avoided during breastfeeding as it is unknown if the drug passes into breast milk.

🛡️ Precautions

• Heart Conditions: Use with caution if you have a history of heart rhythm issues (QT prolongation) or low potassium.

• Liver/Kidney Issues: Currently not recommended for patients with impaired liver or kidney function due to a lack of clinical data.

• Elderly: Patients over 65 should use this medication with extra caution.

📦 Storage

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place.

• Protect from light and moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children. 🚫👶