Astelin (Azelastine)

Astelin is a brand name for a nasal spray containing the active ingredient azelastine hydrochloride. It is an antihistamine that is used to relieve allergy symptoms, particularly those affecting the nose, such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itching, and nasal congestion.

The mechanism of Astelin involves blocking the action of histamine, which is a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. By inhibiting histamine, medicine helps to alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever.

Medicine is typically prescribed for seasonal allergies caused by outdoor allergens like pollen or for perennial allergies triggered by indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores.

Uses

As mentioned earlier, Astelin is primarily used to treat symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis. Here are some specific uses:

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: Nasal spray is commonly prescribed to manage symptoms caused by seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, which is triggered by outdoor allergens like pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. It helps alleviate symptoms like sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itching, and nasal congestion.
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: Medicine can also be used for year-round allergies caused by indoor allergens, including dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and other allergens commonly found in indoor environments.
Allergic Conjunctivitis: In some cases, Astelin may also help relieve symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, which affects the eyes and causes redness, itching, and watery eyes.

It's important to note that Astelin is a nasal spray and is designed for intranasal use only. It is not intended for use in the eyes or for treating other types of allergies or medical conditions.

Dosage

The dosage of Astelin nasal spray can vary depending on the age of the patient and the specific condition being treated. The following are general guidelines for the typical dosage:

For Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis and Perennial Allergic Rhinitis:

Adults and Children 12 years of age and older:

The usual recommended dose is 1 or 2 sprays per nostril twice daily (total daily dose: 0.56 mg to 2.24 mg).

Children 5 to 11 years of age:

The usual recommended dose is 1 spray per nostril twice daily (total daily dose: 1.12 mg).

It's essential to use Astelin regularly as prescribed, even if you don't have any immediate symptoms. It may take a few days of regular use to achieve the full benefit of the medication.

Important Dosage Tips:

Shake the nasal spray well before each use.
Clear your nasal passages before using the spray by gently blowing your nose.
Insert the nozzle of the spray into your nostril and point it slightly outward, away from the center of your nose.
Breathe in gently through your nostril while pressing down on the spray nozzle to release the medication.
Repeat the process for the other nostril.

Overdose

An overdose of Astelin can occur if the recommended dosage is exceeded, or if the medication is accidentally ingested or misused. If you suspect an overdose or experience severe adverse effects after using this drug, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

Severe drowsiness or sedation
Confusion
Difficulty breathing
Irregular or rapid heartbeat
Uncontrollable shaking or tremors
Fainting or loss of consciousness
Hallucinations or abnormal behavior

If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

To prevent an overdose, always store Astelin nasal spray out of reach of children and follow the storage instructions provided with the medication.

Precautions

When using Astelin nasal spray, it's essential to take certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:

Allergies: Allergic reactions to Astelin are rare but can occur.
Avoid Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while using Astelin may increase the risk of drowsiness and dizziness. It's best to avoid alcohol or limit its consumption during Astelin treatment.
Operating Machinery or Driving: Astelin may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, avoid operating heavy machinery, driving, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
Nasal Irritation: In some cases, Astelin may cause mild nasal irritation, a bitter taste in the mouth, or headaches.
Proper Use: Follow the instructions for using Astelin carefully. Do not use more than the recommended dosage, and do not use it for longer than prescribed.
Pediatric Use: Astelin may be used in children, but the dosage and use should be determined based on the child's age and medical condition.
Storage: Store nasal spray at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children.

Side Effects

Astelin nasal spray may cause side effects in some individuals. While not everyone will experience these side effects, it's essential to be aware of potential adverse reactions. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Common side effects may include:

Bitter taste: A bitter taste or bad taste in the mouth is one of the most common side effects of Astelin. This taste disturbance is usually temporary and subsides with continued use.
Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while using Astelin, especially during the initial days of treatment. This side effect is usually mild and transient.
Nasal irritation: Astelin can cause mild irritation in the nasal passages, leading to symptoms such as a burning sensation or dryness.
Drowsiness or dizziness: Astelin may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some people. This effect is more likely to occur if the medication is used in higher-than-recommended dosages or if combined with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants.
Nosebleeds: In some cases, Astelin may cause nasal irritation, leading to nosebleeds.
Fatigue: Some individuals may experience a feeling of fatigue or tiredness while using Astelin.
Nausea: Medicine may occasionally cause nausea or an upset stomach.
Eye irritation: Rarely, Astelin may cause mild eye irritation or burning sensations if the spray comes into contact with the eyes.
Allergic reactions: While uncommon, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Astelin. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

Storage

Proper storage of Astelin nasal spray is essential to maintain its effectiveness and safety. Here are some guidelines for storing:

Store at Room Temperature: Keep the nasal spray at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Avoid exposure to extreme heat, direct sunlight, or freezing temperatures.
Keep Away from Moisture: Store the nasal spray in a dry place. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or any other area with high humidity, as moisture can degrade the medication.
Close the Cap Tightly: After each use, make sure to close the cap tightly on the nasal spray bottle. This helps prevent contamination and maintains the quality of the medication.
Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Astelin out of reach of children and pets. Nasal sprays can be harmful if ingested, especially by young children.
Check Expiry Date: Always check the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use Astelin beyond its expiration date, as it may lose its effectiveness or become unsafe.
Do Not Share Medication: Astelin is prescribed specifically for individual use. Do not share the nasal spray with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as this can lead to potential health risks.
Traveling with Astelin: If you need to take remedy with you while traveling, make sure to store it properly in a cool and dry place. Avoid leaving it in a hot car or exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period.