Common uses

Azelastine is used to relieve nasal symptoms such as runny/itching/stuffy nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drip caused by seasonal allergies and other conditions. This medication is an antihistamine. It works by blocking certain natural substances called histamines that are responsible for allergic symptoms.
Before using

Before taking azelastine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to the preservative benzalkonium chloride; or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems.
This drug may make you drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Directions

Follow the instructions on how to properly use this medication. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Follow the instructions for properly priming the spray pump before using the bottle for the first time and if you have not used the medication for 3 or more days. Avoid spraying in your eyes.
This medication is for use in your nose as directed, usually twice a day in both nostrils. For children, dosage is based on age, with younger children needing a lower dose.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. This medicine usually begins working within 3 hours of use.
Inform your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

Possible side effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:
• mild nausea or vomiting.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:
• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); appetite loss; black, tarry stools; changes in menstrual periods; convulsions; depression; diarrhea; dizziness; exaggerated sense of well-being; fever; general body discomfort; headache; increased pressure in the eye; joint or muscle pain; mood swings; muscle weakness; personality changes; prolonged sore throat, cold, or fever; puffing of the face; severe nausea or vomiting; swelling of feet or legs; unusual weight gain; vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds; weakness; weight loss.

If you take too much

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Additional information

If a young child accidentally eats azelastine, call a doctor or a poison control center immediately.

Drug interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you also take drugs that cause drowsiness such as: other antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine), anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., phenobarbital), medicine for sleep (e.g., zolpidem), muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine or tricyclics such as amitriptyline), tranquilizers.
Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those products.