Astelin (Azelastine)

Astelin is used for treating allergy symptoms such as sneezing and itchy, runny nose. It is also used to treat symptoms of nasal passage inflammation such as runny nose, stuffy nose, and postnasal drip. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Astelin is an antihistamine nasal spray. It works by blocking the action of histamine, which reduces allergy symptoms

Do not use Astelin Spray if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Astelin.

• Astelin may cause drowsiness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Astelin with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
• Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (e.g., sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Astelin; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.
• The medicine has a antihistamine in it. Before you start any new medicine, check the label to see if it has an antihistamine (e.g., diphenhydramine) in it too. If it does or if you are not sure, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Astelin may cause harm if it is swallowed. If you may have taken it by mouth, contact your poison control center or emergency room right away.
• Astelin should be used with extreme caution in children younger than 5 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Astelin while you are pregnant. It is not known if Astelin is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Astelin, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Bitter taste; drowsiness; fatigue; headache; mild nasal bleeding, burning, discomfort, or stinging; sudden sneezing attack.

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); repeated or persistent nosebleeds; severe nasal irritation.

Astelin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.