Use in the Nose Only
Astelin Nasal Spray is intended for use inside the nose only. Do not spray the medication into your eyes or mouth, and do not swallow it.
If the spray gets into your eyes, rinse them gently with clean water for several minutes. Contact a healthcare provider if eye irritation, pain, redness, or blurred vision continues.
Follow the Prescribed Dose
Use Astelin exactly as directed by your healthcare provider or as stated on the prescription label. Do not use more sprays, use the medication more frequently, or continue treatment longer than recommended.
Using more than the prescribed amount may increase the risk of side effects without providing better allergy relief. Contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve or become worse during treatment.
Drowsiness and Reduced Alertness
Astelin may cause drowsiness or reduced alertness in some people. Although it is used inside the nose, some of the medication can still be absorbed into the body.
Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform activities that require concentration until you know how Astelin affects you. Use extra caution when you first begin treatment or after your dose is changed.
Alcohol may make drowsiness and reduced alertness worse. Avoid drinking alcohol while using Astelin unless your healthcare provider says it is safe.
Medications That Cause Drowsiness
Tell your healthcare provider if you take medicines or substances that can make you sleepy. Combining them with Astelin may increase dizziness, drowsiness, poor coordination, or difficulty concentrating.
- These products may include:
- Sleeping medications
- Sedatives or tranquillizers
- Opioid pain medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Certain seizure medications
- Some anxiety medications
- Other antihistamines
- Cannabis products
Do not combine Astelin with another allergy medication unless a healthcare provider or pharmacist confirms that the combination is appropriate.
Medical Conditions
Before using Astelin, tell your healthcare provider about all medical conditions you have. This includes any condition that may affect how safely you can use the spray or how well you tolerate its side effects.
The official prescribing information does not identify urinary retention or severe high blood pressure as specific major warnings for Astelin. However, your healthcare provider should still know about these conditions and review all your medications before treatment begins.
Nasal Irritation and Nosebleeds
Astelin may cause irritation, burning, discomfort, dryness, or a nosebleed. Point the spray slightly away from the center wall of the nose to reduce irritation.
Contact your healthcare provider if nosebleeds are frequent, severe, or difficult to stop. You should also seek advice if you develop persistent nasal pain, sores, or irritation.
Bitter Taste
A bitter or unpleasant taste is a common side effect of azelastine nasal spray. This may happen when the medication runs down the back of the throat.
Keep your head tilted slightly downward while spraying and breathe in gently. Do not tilt your head backward or sniff deeply, as this may cause more medication to enter your throat.
Allergic Reactions
Do not use Astelin if you are allergic to azelastine or any ingredient in the nasal spray.
Stop using the medication and seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Hives
- A severe rash
- Sudden dizziness or fainting
Medication and Supplement Interactions
Tell your healthcare provider and pharmacist about every prescription medication, over-the-counter medicine, vitamin, herbal product, and supplement you use.
This is especially important for products that cause drowsiness or reduce alertness. Your healthcare provider can check for possible interactions and determine whether any doses need to be adjusted.
Do not start, stop, or change another medication while using Astelin without first speaking with a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
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