Uses of Azelastine Nasal Spray
Azelastine nasal spray, an antihistamine, is used to treat hay fever and allergy symptoms including runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Side Effects of Azelastine Nasal Spray
Azelastine nasal spray may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- bitter taste
- tiredness
- weight increase
- muscle pain
- nasal burning
Warnings & Precautions
Before using azelastine nasal spray:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to azelastine nasal spray or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other cold and allergy products, antihistamines, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using this nasal spray, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using azelastine nasal spray.
- you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
- remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
Dosage
Azelastine comes as a nasal spray. It usually is sprayed in each nostril two times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use azelastine enasal spray exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Before using this nasal spray for the first time, remove the child-resistant screw cap and replace it with the pump unit. Prime the delivery system (pump unit) with four sprays or until a fine mist appears. If 3 days or more have elapsed since your last use of the nasal spray, reprime the pump with two sprays or until a fine mist appears.
Other
If a young child accidentally eats azelastine nasal spray, call a doctor or a poison control center immediately.
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
