Astelin (Azelastine)

Description

Astelin (azelastine hydrochloride) is a nasal spray that is used to treat seasonal allergy symptoms in adults and pediatric patients who are 5 years old or older. Astelin Nasal Spray is also used to treat vasomotor rhinitis in adults and adolescents who are 12 years old or older.

Directions

The instructions and informational leaflets that come with your prescription should be read and followed.

Astelin is available as a nasal spray that contains 137 mcg of azelastine hydrochloride in 0.137 mL of spray.

Seasonal allergies dosage:

For pediatric patients 5-11 years old: 1 spray in each nostril twice daily

For adults and adolescents who are 12 years old or older: 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril twice daily

Dosage for vasomotor rhinitis:

2 sprays in each nostril twice daily in adults and adolescents who are 12 years old or older

You should prime Astelin Nasal Spray before the first use and if you have not used it for 3 days or more. 

Astelin Nasal Spray directions:

1. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils. 
2. Lean your head down toward the ground. 
3. Place the tip of the spray about ¼ to ½ inch into your nostril. Hold the bottle upright and position the tip of the spray toward the back of your nasal cavity. 
4. Close off your other nostril using your finger. Gently sniff while pressing the pump once. 
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for using the nasal spray in the other nostril. 

Ingredients

Azelastine hydrochloride is the active ingredient in Astelin Nasal Spray. Benzalkonium chloride, edetate disodium, hypromellose, citric acid, dibasic sodium phosphate, sodium chloride, and purified water are inactive ingredients contained in Astelin.

Cautions

• Before beginning treatment with Astelin Nasal Spray, tell your doctor:
• If you take any medications, including vitamins and herbal supplements
• About any allergies you may have
• If you have any health conditions
• If you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
• Drowsiness can be caused by Astelin Nasal Spray. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or participating in other hazardous activities that require mental alertness while using Astelin Nasal Spray.
• Your alertness can be decreased if you consume alcohol or use other central nervous system depressants while using Astelin Nasal Spray.

Side Effects

If you begin to experience bothersome or persistent side effects, tell your doctor right away. Some of the most common side effects associated with the nasal spray include the following: bitter taste, headache, drowsiness, unusual sensation, rhinitis, nasal burning, pharyngitis, nosebleeds, sinusitis, paroxysmal sneezing, nausea, dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, and weight gain.

Reference:

Astelin (azelastine hydrochloride) nasal spray. Somerset, NJ: Meda Pharmaceuticals; 2014.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....