Related to this topic: Equipment | Books | Your Experience | Other resources | Glossaries
Print options: 
Other options:
(what's this?)
Azelastine nasal spray
|
About azelastine nasal spray
| Type of medicine | Antihistamines |
| Used for | Treatment of allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the inside of the nose commonly caused by hayfever and other allergies) |
| Also called | Rhinolast |
| Available as | Nasal spray |
Exposure to pollen, pet fur, house dust, an insect bite or another trigger, can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms that can include sneezing, watery eyes and a running or blocked nose. Azelastine nasal spray relieves the symptoms of hayfever and other allergies by preventing the production of histamine.
Before using azelastine nasal spray
Before using azelastine nasal spray make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
- Azelastine nasal spray is not recommended for use in children under five years old
How to use azelastine nasal spray
- Blow your nose gently
- Shake the container and remove cap
- Tilt your head back and insert the nozzle of the spray into one nostril, taking care to keep the canister upright as shown in the instruction leaflet
- Push down firmly on the canister to administer one spray
- Repeat in the other nostril if you have been instructed to use azelastine in both nostrils
- Wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap immediately after use
Getting the most from your treatment
- Use azelastine nasal spray as directed by your doctor or pharmacist
- Azelastine nasal spray should only be used by one person
- Do not use this spray more often than your doctor or pharmacist recommends as this can increase the risk of side effects
- If you are using azelastine nasal spray to relieve the symptoms of hayfever, your doctor may recommend that you start using the nasal spray before the hayfever season starts
- Avoid getting azelastine nasal spray in your eyes. If you accidentally get any of this preparation in your eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
Can azelastine nasal spray cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any irritation inside the nose or a bitter taste in the mouth continues or becomes troublesome or if you experience any other side effects which you think may be due to this medicine.
How to store azelastine nasal spray
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light
Important information about all medicines
|
| © EMIS 2007 | DocID: 3327 |
DocRef: dils2292 |
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2007 |
Date of Next Review: 4 Feb 2009 |
Version: 22 |
Related pages in Patient UK
Your Experience (^ top of page)
Please add your experience about this condition / medicineOther - Useful resources (^ top of page)
Pictures, diagrams, photos, images, etc.Evidence based medicine
Online textbooks and journals
A-Z of UK Guidelines
A-Z of Online Videos
Medline
Other good health sites
*** NEW *** Patient UK Newspaper
View current health newsMedical equipment products related to this topic (^ top of page)
Pill/Tablet Equipment
Books related to this topic (^ top of page)
Want to search some more? Use the Google Search box below to search our site.
Would you like to try our advanced on-line knowledge support system designed to provide professionals with relevant up to date information about recognition and management of disease or take the Mentor Challenge?
