Azelastine: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use

Use

What is Azelastine for?

Azelastine is a medication to relieve symptoms in the nose, such as runny nose / itching / congestion, sneezing, and runny nose due to seasonal allergies and other allergic conditions. Azelastine is an antihistamine drug that works by blocking a certain natural substance called histamine that causes allergy symptoms.

How do you use Azelastine?

Follow the rules given to prepare the spray pump properly before using the bottle for the first time and if you haven't used any medicines for 3 days or more. Avoid spraying in the eyes or mouth.

Azelastine is used in the nose and is available in a variety of strengths. Use 1 or 2 sprays on both nostrils, usually 1 or 2 times a day as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your condition, the product you are using and response to treatment. Use this drug regularly to get optimal benefits. To help you remember, use this medication at the same time every day. This medication usually starts working within 3 hours of use.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not improve.

How to store Azelastine?

This medication is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Dose

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the dosage of Azelastine for adults?

0.1% spray: 1 or 2 sprays into each nostril 2 times a day.
0.15% spray: 2 sprays into each nostril 1 time a day.

What is the dosage of Azelastine for children?

• 5-11 years: 1 spray into each nostril 2 times a day.
• 12 years and over: 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril 2 times a day.

In what dosage and preparation is Azelastine available?

Azelastine is available in the following dosages:

Spray, nose: 137 ug.

Side effects

What side effects may occur due to Azelastine?

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using azelastine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience the following serious side effects:

• Bronchospasm (shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, wheezing)
• Fast or irregular heartbeat

Less serious side effects can include:

• Bitter taste in mouth
• Headache
• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Dry mouth, sore throat
• Sores or sore on the nose
• Gaining weight
• Nausea
• Nosebleed
• Cough, sneeze, runny nose, sore throat
• Red eye.

Not everyone experiences the following side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions & Warnings

What should be known before using Azelastine?

Before using azelastine,

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to azelastine or other drugs.
• Tell your doctor and pharmacist what medications, with or without a prescription, especially products for hay fever and allergies, antihistamines and vitamins.
• Tell your doctor if you are or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using azelastine, call your doctor.
• If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking azelastine.
• This medicine may cause drowsiness. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• Alcohol can increase the drowsiness caused by this drug.

Is Azelastine safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The following references the pregnancy risk categories according to the FDA:

• A = No risk,
• B = not at risk in several studies,
• C = May be risky,
• D = There is positive evidence of risk,
• X = Contraindicated,
• N = Unknown

Interaction

What medicines may interact with Azelastine?

Drug interactions can change the performance of your medications or increase the risk of serious side effects. Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this document. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription / non-prescription drugs and herbal products) and consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without your doctor's approval.

Before using nasal azelastine, tell your doctor if you are using other medications regularly that cause drowsiness (such as cold or allergy medications, narcotic pain relievers, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers and medications for seizures, depression or anxiety). These drugs can worsen the drowsiness caused by nasal azelastine.

Tell your doctor if you are taking cimetidine (Tagamet).

Can food or alcohol interact with Azelastine?

Certain drugs should not be used with meals or when eating certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Discuss your use of drugs with food, alcohol, or tobacco with your health care provider.

What health conditions may interact with Azelastine?

Any other health conditions you have can affect the use of this drug. Always tell your doctor if you have other health problems, especially kidney disease. Use with care. Side effects can increase due to the release of the drug from the body for a longer period of time.

Overdose

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact the local emergency services provider (119) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.