Astelin (Azelastine)

What is Astelin?

Astelin is an antihistamine nasal spray.

What is Astelin used for?

Astelin is used for the treatment of nasal inflammation such as post nasal drip, stuffy and runny nose. It is also used for the cure of allergy symptoms like sneezing or itchy nose.

How does Astelin work?

Astelin blocks or combats certain natural substances in the body. These chemical substances called histamines are the ones that cause symptoms of allergy.

How to use Astelin

The Astelin spray carries an information leaflet with it. Go through the entire information or consult a physician, in case of doubt.

Astelin has been particularly designed for nasal treatment; make sure that it does not enter your eyes or mouth. When using for the first time, spray it in the air for at least 4 times.

Blow your nose properly to clear the nostrils. Close the other nostril with one hand and gently spray it, making sure it reaches the back of your nose.

Sniff it rapidly and repeat the procedure in the other nostril. Lie down for some time keeping your head tilted backwards.

Astelin warnings and precautions

Inform your doctor beforehand, if you are allergic to the ingredients in the Astelin spray, particularly azelastine, or the preservative, benzalkonium chloride. People suffering from kidney disorder must essentially check with the physician. Avoid alcohol, as it may cause drowsiness.

Follow the warnings and make sure that you do not spray more than directed. Also, as Astelin is an antihistamine, ensure that you do not consume any other drug containing the same.

As the usage of Astelin has yet not been confirmed in children below the age of 5, therefore, it is advised that it should be kept away from the contact of children. Pregnant or lactating women should take precautionary measures and should consult their physician before starting to take this medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Astelin dose?

If you have missed your Astelin dose, you should take it at once. In case, it’s time for the next one, skip the missed dose and get back to your normal routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Astelin overdose?

If you have taken an Astelin overdose, you should call the emergency room immediately. Overdose may result in seizures, limp muscles, tremors, etc.

Astelin interactions

Consumption of any other drug, along with Astelin, might result in an increased, decreased or altered effect.

Inform your doctor if you are in a habit of taking other medicines that make you sleepy. These medicines may include narcotic pain medicine, depression or anxiety relieving drugs, muscle relaxers, sleeping pills, allergy medicines, medicine for seizures, etc.

Some vitamins, herbal products, minerals, etc may interact with Asteline, so make sure that your doctor knows all your prescribed and non prescribed dosage of drugs, before your start with the treatment.

Astelin side effects

Astelin is said to cause some minor allergies, mainly swelling of face, mouth or tongue; hives, difficulty in breathing, etc. Talk to your doctor at once, if these allergies persist or cause some trouble.

The less serious effects comprise headache, nausea, dry mouth, nose bleed, eye redness, sore throat, bitter taste in your mouth, etc.

There have been numerous cases, where no side effects have been reported; therefore, it is not definite that it would leave some after effects. However, if there happens to be any, do not panic and take instant action. Also, this should not be taken lightly, as it may result into something unexpected.

If you witness any severe side effects like bronchospasm and uneven or fast heartbeats, do not change the dosage; instead talk to your doctor, immediately.