Indications
Azelastine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine used as a nasal spray to relieve hay fever and other allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny or blocked nose and itchy nose caused by allergy, either seasonal or year-round) and some non-allergic rhinitis. As eye drops it is used for allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, red, watery eyes caused by allergy).
How It Works
Azelastine blocks histamine H1 receptors, so histamine released during an allergic reaction cannot trigger itching, sneezing, runny nose or watery eyes. It also helps calm the cells that release histamine and other allergy chemicals. Because it is applied directly to the nose or eyes, it starts working within minutes.
Dosage and Administration
Nasal spray (0.1%), adults and children 6 years and over: 1 spray into each nostril twice a day, or as directed by your doctor. Blow your nose first, keep your head upright and avoid tilting it back; sniff gently. Eye drops (0.05%), adults and children 4 years and over: 1 drop into each affected eye twice a day, increasing to up to 4 times a day if needed. Remove contact lenses before using the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back.
Interactions
- Alcohol, sedating antihistamines, sleeping pills and other medicines that cause drowsiness: may increase sleepiness, mainly with the nasal spray.
- Other eye drops: leave at least 5 minutes between different drops.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to azelastine or any ingredient (such as the preservative benzalkonium chloride). The nasal spray is not recommended for children under 6 years, and the eye drops are not recommended under 4 years, unless a doctor advises it.
Side Effects
- Bitter taste in the mouth after the nasal spray, especially if the head is tilted back.
- Nose irritation, sneezing or, rarely, nosebleed.
- Tiredness, headache or drowsiness.
- With eye drops: brief stinging or irritation of the eye, bitter taste.
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Only a small amount reaches the blood, but safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established. Use only if your doctor advises it, particularly in the first 3 months of pregnancy.
Precautions and Warnings
It can occasionally cause drowsiness; do not drive or use machines if affected. The eye drops are for allergic eye conditions only, not for eye infections. See your doctor if symptoms do not improve within a few days, if the eye becomes painful, or if vision changes.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely with nasal or eye use. If a large amount is swallowed, especially by a child, it may cause drowsiness, confusion or fast heartbeat; seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Antihistamine (H1 receptor antagonist) for nasal and eye use.
Storage
Store below 30°C, do not freeze, keep away from light and out of the reach of children. Use eye drops within 4 weeks of opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.