Astelin Nasal Spray: Fast-Acting Relief for Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

Astelin (azelastine hydrochloride) is a prescription antihistamine nasal spray clinically proven to provide rapid relief from seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms. Unlike some oral medications that may take hours to become effective, Astelin starts working within minutes to reduce sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy nose. Its targeted nasal delivery system ensures medication reaches the exact site of inflammation while minimizing systemic side effects, making it an excellent choice for both adults and children seeking effective allergy management.

Features

  • Contains azelastine hydrochloride 137 mcg per spray
  • HFA-propellant free formulation
  • Preservative-free option available (Astelin Nasal Solution)
  • Mechanically pumped delivery system
  • Meets USP particulate size distribution requirements
  • Compatible with most nasal corticosteroid therapies
  • pH-balanced formula to minimize nasal irritation
  • Available in 30 mL metered-dose spray bottle (approximately 200 sprays)

Benefits

  • Provides relief from allergy symptoms within 15-30 minutes of administration
  • Reduces both early and late-phase allergic responses through dual antihistamine and mast cell stabilizing action
  • Improves quality of life by enabling normal breathing and reducing sleep disruption caused by nasal congestion
  • Offers convenient twice-daily dosing for consistent 24-hour symptom control
  • Minimizes systemic side effects through localized nasal delivery
  • Effective for both seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and year-round allergic rhinitis

Common use

Astelin Nasal Spray is primarily indicated for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms in adults and children 5 years of age and older, and for the treatment of vasomotor rhinitis in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older. Patients typically use Astelin during high-pollen seasons or when exposed to known allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, or mold spores. Many allergists recommend Astelin as first-line therapy for patients who experience primarily nasal symptoms or who cannot tolerate sedating oral antihistamines.

Dosage and direction

For seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children 12 years and older: 1 or 2 sprays per nostril twice daily. For children 5 to 11 years of age: 1 spray per nostril twice daily. For vasomotor rhinitis in adults and adolescents 12 years and older: 2 sprays per nostril twice daily. Prime the pump before first use by releasing 4 sprays until a fine mist appears. Gently shake the bottle before each use. Blow nose gently to clear nostrils before administration. Tilt head slightly forward and insert tip into nostril, pointing away from the nasal septum. Breathe in gently while spraying, then breathe out through the mouth. Avoid blowing nose for 15-30 minutes after administration.

Precautions

Do not use if allergic to azelastine hydrochloride or any inactive ingredients. May cause drowsiness in some patients; use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing hazardous activities. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while using this medication. Not recommended for children under 5 years of age. Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment. Contact your physician if symptoms worsen or do not improve after 3 days of continuous use. Do not share the nasal spray bottle with others to prevent contamination and spread of infection.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to azelastine hydrochloride or any component of the formulation. Patients with severe hepatic impairment should use with extreme caution. Not recommended for patients with recent nasal surgery, nasal trauma, or nasal ulcers until completely healed. Contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Should not be used by patients taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥2%) include: bitter taste (especially if spray directed toward throat), headache, nasal burning, pharyngitis, sneezing, epistaxis (nosebleeds), and somnolence. Less common side effects (<2%) include: nasal dryness, sinusitis, nausea, rhinitis, cough, dizziness, dry mouth, weight increase, conjunctivitis, parosmia, rash, urticaria, and fatigue. Rare but serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include: severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat), vision changes, irregular heartbeat, and severe drowsiness.

Drug interaction

May potentiate effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (barbiturates, benzodiazepines, opioids). Use with caution when combining with other anticholinergic drugs. No clinically significant interactions identified with oral contraceptives, warfarin, or cimetidine. Theoretical increased risk of QT prolongation when used with other drugs that prolong QT interval (certain antibiotics, antifungals, antipsychotics). Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining consistent dosing provides optimal symptom control, so try to establish a routine (e.g., morning and evening) to minimize missed doses.

Overdose

In case of accidental overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, respiratory depression. Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote for azelastine overdose. Hemodialysis is not expected to be effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store upright at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Do not freeze. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not puncture or incinerate the container, even after use. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard 3 months after opening, even if medication remains. Do not transfer contents to another container.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment. Individual results may vary. The complete prescribing information should be reviewed before using this product. Only a healthcare provider can determine if Astelin is appropriate for your specific medical condition.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that approximately 70% of patients experience significant symptom relief within the first hour of using Astelin Nasal Spray. In randomized controlled trials, patients reported 35% greater improvement in total nasal symptom scores compared to placebo. Many users appreciate the rapid onset of action, with one study showing 70% of patients experiencing relief within 15 minutes. Long-term users report consistent efficacy throughout allergy seasons with minimal side effects. Some patients note the bitter taste diminishes with proper administration technique (directing spray away from nasal septum). Overall patient satisfaction rates exceed 80% in post-marketing surveys.