Astelin

1 What is Astelin?

Brand: Astelin, Astelin Ready-Spray, Astepro

Generic: Azelastine Hydrochloride

Azelastine nasal spray is an antihistamine that is used to help treat symptoms of seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis and vasomotor rhinitis.

Its mechanism of action is preventing the effects of histamine in the body which causes itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.

2 What to Know Before Using

Tell to your doctor if you are allergic to azelastine or to any other medications.

Safety and effectiveness of Phenol have not been established in children. Although this medicine have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems, older patients are more likely to have age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients who are receiving azelastine nasal spray.

Pregnancy C - The use of azelastine during pregnancy is warranted only if benefits justify risks to the fetus and only when no alternative management is appropriate.

There are no adequate studies whether azelastine can pass through breast milk or if it could cause harmful effects to the infant. Discuss with your doctor if you are breastfeeding a baby.

Taking azelastine with Bupropion and Donepezil is usually not recommended, but with exception in some cases. Also, taking azelastine with Cimetidine may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. Your doctor may change the dose or the frequency of one or both of your medicines if both medicines are prescribed together.

If you have kidney disease, use this medicine with caution. The effects may be increased due to slower removal of the medicine from the body.

3 Proper Usage

Take azelastine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Excessive use of this medication will increase the chance for side effects.

Direction to use azelastine nasal spray:

  • Prime the spray when it is your first time to use it by pressing down fully the top of the pump 6 times or until a fine spray comes out. If it has not been used for 3 or more days, prime again with 2 sprays.
  • Blow your nose softly before using the spray. Slightly tilt your head back and insert the tip of the nose piece into your nostril.
  • Close the opposite nostril by pinching it with a finger. Release 1 spray and at the same time, breathe in gently through the nostril.
  • Hold your breath for a few seconds then breathe out slowly through your mouth.
  • Spray the opposite nostril using the same steps.
  • After using the spray, do not blow your nose or tip your head back.
  • Wipe the tip of the outside of the nose piece with a clean, dry tissue or cloth and put the cap back on.
  • Discard the medicine after you consumed 200 sprays.

For nasal spray user:

  • Recommended dosage for treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis:
    • Adults and children 12 years of age—2 sprays in each nostril two times a day. Each spray contains 137 or 205.5 micrograms of azelastine.
    • Children 6 to 11 years of age—1 spray in each nostril two times a day. Each spray contains 137 or 205.5 mcg of azelastine.
    • Children 6 months to 5 years of age—1 spray in each nostril two times a day. Each spray contains 137 mcg of azelastine.
    • Children younger than 6 months of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • Recommended dosage for treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis:
    • Adults and children 12 years of age—1 or 2 sprays in each nostril two times a day, or 2 sprays in each nostril once a day. Each spray contains 137 or 205.5 micrograms (mcg) of azelastine.
    • Children 6 to 11 years of age—1 spray in each nostril two times a day. Each spray contains 137 or 205.5 mcg of azelastine.
    • Children 2 to 5 years of age—1 spray in each nostril two times a day. Each spray contains 137 mcg of azelastine.
    • Children younger than 2 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is near for your next dose, skip the missed dose and start again to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Store the medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not keep expired medications.

4 Precautions To Take

Check with your doctor regularly to monitor your progress with your medication.

This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other medicines that can make you drowsy or less alert. Check with your doctor before taking any of these medicines while you are using this medicine.

This medicine can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machineries, or any other risky activities when you take this medication.

Avoid getting this medication to your eyes because it can cause blurring of vision or irritation.

Talk to your doctor if you are taking any other medication.

5 Potential Side Effects

If any of the following side effects occur, check with your doctor right away:

  • Blood in the urine
  • Blurred vision or other change in vision
  • Cough
  • Eye pain
  • Eye redness
  • Hives, itching, or skin rash
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Sores in the mouth or on the lips
  • Chest tightness
  • Breathing difficulty

Less serious side effects:

  • Bitter taste in the mouth
  • Drowsiness or sleepiness
  • Bloody mucus or unexplained nosebleeds
  • Burning inside the nose
  • Dizziness
  • Dryness of the mouth
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches or pain
  • Nausea
  • Sore throat
  • Sudden outbursts of sneezing
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Weight gain

Not all side effects are listed above. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

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