What is this medication for?
Azelastine nasal spray belongs to the family of medications called antihistamines. It is used to treat certain allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose in patients. It can also be used to treat vasomotor rhinitis, a condition that causes runny nose, stuffy nose, and postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat).
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are being given this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Astelin® is available as:
- nasal spray (200 sprays per bottle)
- 137 µg of azelastine per spray
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
For adults and children 12 years of age and older, the usual recommended dose ranges from 1 to 2 sprays per nostril twice daily.
For children aged 5 to 11 years (using Astelin® and Azelastine Hydrochloride), the recommended dose is one spray per nostril twice daily.
Avoid spraying the medication in the eyes.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way the way you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
Before using the medication for the first time, you will need to prime the pump by releasing 6 sprays of medication into the air, away from your face. If you haven't used the spray for 3 days or more, you will need to reprime the pump with 2 sprays or until a fine mist appears. Do not use this medication unless you see a fine mist after you do the priming sprays. Even though the bottle may not be completely empty, you may not get the correct dose of medication.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double a dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication upright at room temperature, protect it from freezing, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Azelastine should not be used by anyone who is allergic to azelastine or to any of the ingredients of the medication.