Side Effects of Azelastine

Azelastine is a prescription antihistamine. The nasal spray form is used to relieve
symptoms of nasal allergy such as a runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose and
post-nasal drip due to conditions like:

• Seasonal allergies
• Perennial allergic
  rhinitis like sneezing and nasal pruritis and rhinorrhea among adults and
  children
• Vasomotor rhinitis among
  adults and children

Azelastine eye drop is prescribed for the treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic
conjunctivitis. Azelastine is a potent second-generation selective histamine
antagonist. It is used as first-line therapy of mild recurrent, moderate/
severe recurrent, and mild persistent allergic rhinitis.  It works by blocking the natural substances
known as histamines responsible for the allergic symptoms.

How to use Azelastine?

Azelastine comes in a nasal spray that is sprayed in each nostril one to two times a day. Use
the medication exactly as directed. Do not use more than what is prescribed or
longer than the prescribed duration. The number of sprays you take each day is
based on the following:

• Your age
• Your weight
• How severe is your allergy
• You other medical
  condition
• How you react to the first
  dose

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

The recommended dose is 1 to 2 sprays per nostril for adults and adolescents
patients. For children 5 to 11 years of age, the recommended dose is one spray
per nostril a day. For children 2 to 5 years of age, the dose is one spray per
nostril each day. Azelastine is not recommended for children 2 years of age and
younger.

Vasomotor Rhinitis

Adult patients 12 years of age and older with vasomotor rhinitis should spray two
times per nostril a day.

What are the side effects of Azelastine?

Common side effects are:

• Cough
• Fever
• Sneezing
• Headache
• Nosebleed
• Skin rash
• Sore throat
• Drowsiness
• Bitter taste in the mouth
• Vomiting

Serious side effects are:

• Severe allergic reaction
• Trouble breathing
• Nasal burning
• Weight increase
• Severe dizziness

Important Information

• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
  Azelastine can cause severe dizziness when it interacts with alcohol.
• This medication should
  only be used in pregnancy when clearly needed.
• For a missed dose, use it
  as soon as you remember. Do not double up your dose for the missed one.
• When spraying, keep it
  away from your eyes. This medicine can cause eye irritation if it gets into
  your eyes.
• If in case of unwanted
  side effects, contact your doctor right away.
• Do not use this medication if you are allergic to it.