Home/Drugs By Ailments / Azelastine

Azelastine

Uses of Azelastine

  • The primary use of Azelastine is to manage symptoms of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis. It belongs to the class of antihistamine medications.

  • Besides these main uses, it is also used to provide relief from the symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis, a non-allergic form of rhinitis. In some countries, Azelastine can be used, along with other medicines, to manage symptoms of allergic asthma.

Side effects of Azelastine

  • Bitter taste in the mouth

  • Nasal discomfort and irritation

  • Sneezing and runny nose

  • Headache

  • Sleepiness or fatigue

How Azelastine works

  • Azelastine is a second-generation antihistamine, a type of medicine that fights allergies.

  • Its primary action is to block the effects of histamine, a substance released by the body during allergic reactions. Histamine attaches to H1 receptors causing symptoms like inflammation and itching. By binding to these H1 receptors, Azelastine stops histamine from exerting its effects.

Certified content

Written By

docImg
Dr. Michelle FrankMedical Content Writer| 8 years

Doctor of Medicine

Reviewed By

Dr. Chhavi Rosha
Dr. Chhavi Rosha Health & Medical Content Writer| 8 years

BMS, FMC, MD Resident

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

  • Azelastine is available for use via nasal route in the form of a nasal spray.

  • It is also available for ophthalmic use in the form of eye drops.

Age and Dose Restrictions

  • Azelastine in the form of a nasal spray can be used by adults and children who are six years of age or older. The eye drops can be used in children who are four years and older under medical supervision.

Contraindications

  • Azelastine is contraindicated in patients who have known hypersensitivity to the medication or any of its ingredients.

Other Medications to Avoid

  • Azelastine may interact with antacids (such as cimetidine), CNS depressants (such as alcohol, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, and psychiatric medications) and antiretroviral medicines (such as ritonavir).

Overdose and Missed Dose

  • Overdose of Azelastine may cause excessive drowsiness. If you suspect an overdose, immediately seek medical attention.

  • If you forget to administer a dose of Azelastine, do so as soon as you remember. But if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

  • To minimise bitter taste and nasal discomfort while using the nasal spray, tilt your head forward while spraying and avoid breathing in deeply. Rinse your mouth after use.

  • If you experience nosebleeds, avoid spraying directly onto the nasal septum.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

  • Azelastine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience these side effects, avoid such activities until you are sure you can perform them safely.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

  • Azelastine should only be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding if needed and the benefits outweigh the risks.

Caution in Other Conditions

  • Patients with mild to moderate kidney disease should exercise caution when using the nasal spray form of Azelastine. It is not advised in severe kidney dysfunction.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • Regular cleaning of your living environment can help manage allergic rhinitis symptoms.

  • Try to identify and avoid known allergens that cause your allergic symptoms.

  • Keep your home free from dust mites by regularly washing bedding and stuffed toys.

Frequently asked questions

No, Azelastine is not a steroid. It is an antihistamine medication used primarily for managing symptoms of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis.

Yes, one of the side effects of Azelastine can be sleepiness or fatigue. It is important to observe how your body reacts to the medicine and consult your doctor if you experience excessive sleepiness.

Weight gain is not a common side effect of Azelastine. However, if you notice unexpected weight gain while using this medication, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Azelastine tends to work quite quickly. Some people may notice symptom relief within 15 to 30 minutes of using the spray. However, its full effects might be experienced after a few days of regular use.

Typically, medicines like Azelastine are not available over the counter and require a doctor's prescription.

No, Azelastine does not have any known effects on mood. It is primarily an antihistamine used to manage allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis.

No, Azelastine does not cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms. It can be safely discontinued when no longer needed.

Terms & Conditions


Available medicines for AZELASTINE
Oculast 0.05 % Eye Drops 15 ML
Oculast 0.05 % Eye Drops 15 ML
Centaur Pharmaceuticals Pvt.ltd
Pack of 15 ML
₹44.12
MRP ₹53.81
18.00% OFF
Azelast Eye Drops 5ml
Azelast Eye Drops 5ml
Sun Pharma Laboratories Ltd.
Pack of 5 ML
₹69.70
MRP ₹85.00
18.00% OFF
Azep Nasal Spray 5ml
Azep Nasal Spray 5ml
German Remedies
Pack of 5 ML
₹142.97
MRP ₹174.35
18.00% OFF
Optihist Az Eye Drops 5ml
Optihist Az Eye Drops 5ml
Entod Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Pack of 5 ML
₹62.24
MRP ₹75.90
18.00% OFF
Arzep Cfc Free Nasal Spray 10ml
Arzep Cfc Free Nasal Spray 10ml
Zydus Cadila
Pack of 10 ML
₹425.99
MRP ₹519.50
18.00% OFF
Azelast 0.1 % Spray 10 ML
Azelast 0.1 % Spray 10 ML
Sun Pharma Laboratories Ltd.
Pack of 10 ML
₹69.70
MRP ₹85.00
18.00% OFF
Arzep Nasal Spray 10ml
Arzep Nasal Spray 10ml
Zydus Cadila
Pack of 10 ML
₹468.59
MRP ₹571.45
18.00% OFF
Nazohist Nasal Spray 7ml
Nazohist Nasal Spray 7ml
Leeford Healthcare
Pack of 7 ML
₹173.30
MRP ₹270.00
35.81% OFF

Subscribe

Claim your complimentary health and fitness tips subscription and stay updated on our newest promotions.

Download Truemeds

Manage your health with ease Download Truemeds today!Get easy access to medicine refills, health information, and more. With our app, you'll never have to wait in line again. Download now and start taking control of your health.

playstoreIcon

Contact Us

Our customer representative team is available 7 days a week from 9 am - 9 pm.


v3.4.10

copyright2024 - Truemeds | All rights reserved

Our Payment Partners

paymentPartnerpaymentPartnerpaymentPartnerpaymentPartnerpaymentPartner
paymentPartnerpaymentPartnerpaymentPartnerpaymentPartner