Astelin Nasal Spray: Fast-Acting Relief for Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms

Astelin

Astelin

Price from 39.56 $

Astelin (azelastine hydrochloride) is a prescription antihistamine nasal spray clinically proven to provide rapid relief from seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms. As a second-generation antihistamine with anti-inflammatory properties, it targets nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itching directly at the source. Its unique mechanism offers advantages over oral antihistamines by delivering medication precisely where it’s needed most, minimizing systemic exposure while maximizing efficacy. Trusted by allergists and ENT specialists, Astelin represents a frontline therapeutic option for patients seeking non-sedating allergy control with onset of action often within minutes.

Features

  • Contains azelastine hydrochloride 137 mcg per spray
  • HFA-propellant free formulation
  • Meets USP particulate matter specifications
  • pH-balanced for nasal comfort
  • Preservative-free formulation in multi-dose bottle
  • Delivers metered 0.137 mL spray per activation
  • Compatible with standard nasal adapter tips
  • Manufactured under cGMP conditions

Benefits

  • Provides rapid symptom relief, often within 15-30 minutes of administration
  • Reduces nasal congestion through direct anti-inflammatory action on nasal mucosa
  • Minimizes systemic side effects through localized delivery
  • Offers convenient twice-daily dosing for 24-hour symptom control
  • Non-sedating formula allows normal daytime activities
  • Effective for both seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms

Common use

Astelin Nasal Spray is primarily indicated for the treatment of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis in adults and children 6 years of age and older. These symptoms include rhinorrhea (runny nose), sneezing, nasal pruritus (itching), and nasal congestion. Clinical studies have demonstrated efficacy in reducing both early-phase and late-phase allergic responses. The medication is particularly valuable for patients who experience inadequate symptom control with oral antihistamines alone or who prefer targeted nasal therapy. Some otolaryngologists also utilize Astelin off-label for vasomotor rhinitis and mild-to-moderate non-allergic rhinitis cases where histamine may play a contributing role.

Dosage and direction

For adults and children 12 years and older: The recommended dose is 1 or 2 sprays per nostril twice daily. For children 6 to 11 years: The recommended dose is 1 spray per nostril twice daily. Prior to initial use, the pump must be primed by releasing 4 sprays into the air away from the face until a fine mist appears. If the product has not been used for 3 or more days, reprime with 2 sprays. Shake the bottle gently before each use. Blow nose gently to clear nostrils before administration. Tilt head slightly forward and insert tip into nostril, pointing toward the back of the nose rather than the septum. Close the opposite nostril with finger and breathe in gently while spraying. Repeat in other nostril. Avoid blowing nose for 15 minutes after administration.

Precautions

Patients should be advised that Astelin may cause drowsiness in some individuals, although this occurs less frequently than with first-generation antihistamines. Activities requiring mental alertness such as operating machinery or driving should be undertaken with caution until the patient’s response to the medication is known. The bottle should not be inserted deeply into the nose or directed toward the nasal septum. Patients with nasal septal ulcers, nasal surgery, or nasal trauma should use with caution and only under medical supervision. The product should not be used in children under 6 years of age unless specifically directed by a physician. Patients with renal or hepatic impairment should exercise caution and may require dosage adjustment.

Contraindications

Astelin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to azelastine hydrochloride or any component of the formulation. Cross-sensitivity with other antihistamines may occur, though this is uncommon. The product should not be used by patients with severe hepatic impairment without careful medical supervision. Contraindication extends to patients with acute asthma attacks or status asthmaticus where nasal administration might provoke bronchospasm. Pregnancy category C: should not be used during pregnancy unless potential benefits justify potential risks to the fetus.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects (occurring in >2% of patients) include bitter taste (approximately 20% of patients), somnolence (8-11%), nasal burning (approximately 5%), headache (approximately 4%), and pharyngitis (approximately 3%). Less frequent adverse reactions include sneezing paroxysms, epistaxis, nasal dryness, weight increase, dizziness, and dry mouth. Transient episodes of epistaxis (nosebleeds) may occur, particularly in patients with nasal mucosal fragility. Allergic reactions including rash, pruritus, and urticaria have been reported in <1% of patients. Cases of anaphylaxis are extremely rare but have been documented in post-marketing surveillance.

Drug interaction

Concurrent use with CNS depressants including alcohol, barbiturates, opiates, sedatives, and tranquilizers may potentiate drowsiness. Although azelastine has low potential for interaction due to minimal cytochrome P450 metabolism, caution should be exercised with drugs that inhibit CYP enzymes such as ketoconazole, erythromycin, and cimetidine. No clinically significant interactions have been observed with oral contraceptives, theophylline, or warfarin. However, patients taking multiple medications should be monitored for enhanced sedative effects. The combination with other antihistamines may increase anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth and urinary retention.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed administration. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining therapeutic effect, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact overall efficacy. Patients should be educated about maintaining regular dosing intervals for optimal symptom control, particularly during high pollen seasons.

Overdose

Cases of overdose with Astelin Nasal Spray are rare due to its localized delivery system. Symptoms of overdose would be expected to be extensions of common side effects, particularly drowsiness, dizziness, and anticholinergic effects. Single doses up to 8 times the recommended clinical dose have been administered without serious adverse effects. In case of suspected overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Gastric lavage may be considered if recent oral ingestion of the contents occurs. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective due to azelastine’s high protein binding and extensive tissue distribution.

Storage

Store Astelin Nasal Spray at controlled room temperature 20°-25°C (68°-77°F) with excursions permitted between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed and stored in an upright position. Protect from direct light and excessive heat. The product should be discarded 6 months after opening, even if medication remains. The bottle should not be stored in environments with high humidity or temperature fluctuations. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not puncture or incinerate the container even after use.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual patient responses may vary. Astelin is a prescription medication and should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Patients should consult their physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. The complete prescribing information should be reviewed before initiating therapy. Safety and effectiveness in children under 6 years of age have not been established.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that 78% of patients experience significant symptom relief within 30 minutes of administration. In randomized controlled trials, Astelin showed superior efficacy to placebo in reducing total nasal symptom scores (p<0.001) with sustained improvement over 4 weeks of treatment. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate 82% of users report improved quality of life during allergy season. Otolaryngologist ratings consistently show preference for Astelin as first-line therapy for moderate allergic rhinitis due to its rapid onset and favorable side effect profile. Real-world evidence from post-marketing surveillance confirms the safety profile observed in clinical trials with minimal reports of serious adverse events.