Indications
Azelastine is an antihistamine used as a nasal spray to relieve hay fever and other allergic or non-allergic runny nose (rhinitis): sneezing, itching, blocked or runny nose. It is often combined with Fluticasone, a steroid, in one nasal spray for moderate to severe symptoms. Azelastine eye drops are used for itchy, watery, red eyes caused by allergy.
How It Works
Azelastine blocks histamine H1 receptors and also reduces the release of other chemicals involved in allergic reactions. Applied directly to the nose or eyes, it starts to relieve symptoms within about 15 to 30 minutes. In combination sprays, Fluticasone reduces inflammation in the nose for longer-lasting control.
Dosage and Administration
- Nasal spray (alone or with Fluticasone), adults and children 12 years and over: usually 1 spray into each nostril twice a day.
- Eye drops, adults and children 4 years and over: usually 1 drop into each eye twice a day, up to 4 times a day if needed.
Shake the spray (for combination products), prime it before first use, blow your nose, keep your head upright and spray away from the middle of the nose. Do not tilt the head back. Use as directed on the label or by your doctor.
Interactions
Alcohol and other medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sleeping tablets and sedating antihistamines, may add to drowsiness. For combination sprays containing Fluticasone, strong enzyme blockers such as Ritonavir and Ketoconazole can raise steroid levels in the body.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Azelastine or, for combination sprays, to Fluticasone or any other ingredient.
Side Effects
A bitter taste in the mouth is common, especially if the head is tilted back. Other effects include nasal irritation, sneezing, nosebleeds, headache and drowsiness. Eye drops may cause brief stinging. Combination sprays may also cause nose dryness and, rarely with long use, sores in the nose.
Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a severe or repeated nosebleed, or sudden changes in vision.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Only small amounts reach the bloodstream, but use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if your doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
It may cause drowsiness in some people: take care with driving and avoid alcohol. Remove soft contact lenses before using eye drops and wait 15 minutes before putting them back. With combination sprays, long-term use in children should be monitored for growth, and see a doctor if you develop eye problems such as blurred vision.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely with nasal or eye use. If a large amount is swallowed, especially by a child, it may cause drowsiness or agitation; seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Antihistamine (H1 receptor antagonist) for topical nasal and eye use.
Storage
Store below 30°C, do not freeze, away from light and out of the reach of children. Use eye drops within the time stated on the label after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.