Azelastine nasal spray

What is this medicine?

AZELASTINE (a ZEL as teen) nasal spray is a histamine blocker. It helps to relieve itching, running and stuffiness in the nose. This medicine is used to treat nasal symptoms from allergies and other irritants.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use only in the nose. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not use more often than directed. Make sure that you are using your inhaler correctly. Ask you doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While some products may be prescribed for children as young as 6 months for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• fast heartbeat

• high blood pressure

• infection

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• bitter taste

• cough

• feeling tired

• headache

• larger appetite or weight gain

• nose or throat irritation

• nosebleed

• sneezing

What may interact with this medicine?

• cimetidine

• other antihistamines

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store upright and tightly closed at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date or after 200 sprays, whichever comes first.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• any other medical problems

• an unusual or allergic reaction to azelastine, other nasal sprays, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to become pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. Do not use extra medicine. Do not spray in your eyes.

This medicine may make you feel confused, dizzy or lightheaded. Drinking alcohol or taking medicine that causes drowsiness can make this worse. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you.