Azelastine is a prescription nasal spray used for treating seasonal allergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis. This eMedTV segment explores the effects of azelastine, describes how it works, and explains what you should know before taking the drug.
Nasal burning, nosebleed, and headache are some of the most common side effects of azelastine. This eMedTV Web page lists other side effects that may occur with the drug, including potentially serious problems that may require medical attention.
Azelastine is used for treating non-allergic nasal symptoms and seasonal nasal allergy symptoms. This eMedTV Web page further explains what the medicine is used for, describes how it works, and discusses possible off-label azelastine uses.
The suggested dose of azelastine for non-allergic rhinitis is two sprays in each nostril twice daily. This eMedTV article also offers azelastine dosing guidelines for the treatment of seasonal nasal allergy symptoms in adults and children.
Narcotics or opiates, cimetidine, and barbiturates may cause drug interactions with azelastine. This page on the eMedTV Web site lists other drugs that may interact with azelastine and explains what can happen when these medicines are taken together.
Azelastine may cause drowsiness, so you should know how it affects you before driving. This eMedTV resource lists other possible side effects of the drug and includes precautions and warnings with azelastine you should be aware of before using it.
