Overview
Astelin nasal spray is the brand name for the medication azelastine. This medication is used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (runny nose) and non-allergic rhinitis and is only available by a health care provider prescription. Astelin nasal spray works by stopping cells from releasing histamines, chemical substances that cause allergy symptoms, into the body.
Indications
The Mayo Clinic states that Astelin nasal spray works to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis, perennial allergic rhinitis and vasomotor or non-allergic rhinitis. Common signs and symptoms controlled by Astelin nasal spray include a stuffy, runny nose; sneezing; post-nasal drip; red, itchy or watery eyes; swollen eyelids; itchy mouth, throat, ears and face; sore throat; dry cough; headaches; facial pain or pressure; and fatigue. Astelin nasal spray also decreases inflammation in the nasal passageways.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of Astelin nasal spray include a bitter taste in the mouth, headache, drowsiness, nasal burning, sore throat and sneezing. According to the Mayo Clinic, rare side effects of Astelin nasal spray include blood in the urine, a cough, eye pain, visual disturbances, increased heart rate, difficulty breathing and sores on the lips or in the mouth. Other side effects are nose bleeds, dizziness, sore muscles, weight gain and nausea.
Proper Use
Drugs.com states the airways of the nose should be cleared by blowing out the passages prior to using this medication. The spray pump should be primed prior to using a new spray bottle. With your head tilted downward, place the Astelin nasal spray container into one nostril and aim toward the back of the nose while spraying. The other nostril should be held closed and you should inhale through your nose while spraying. Both nostrils should be medicated. During instillation, breathe gently and refrain from tilting your head back to prevent a bitter taste in your mouth from the medication.
Dosing
According to the Mayo Clinic, the strength, dosage and length of time Astelin nasal spray is prescribed will be determined by the health care provider and the type of problem being treated. This medication is typically prescribed for one to two sprays in both nostrils twice a day or two sprays in both nostrils once a day. If a dose is skipped, take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not double up doses of this medication.
Safety
Safety has not been established for use in pediatrics, pregnancy or breast feeding. The Mayo Clinic states that no geriatric problems have been reported, but elderly patients could experience age-related liver, kidney or heart complications when using Astelin nasal spray.
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