Generic Name: Azelastine

  • What is Astelin?

    Astelin is a prescription nasal spray used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies in adults and children ≥5 years. Additionally, in people ≥12 years, it relieves symptoms caused by environmental irritants such as perfumes, cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, chemical odors, and cold air. These symptoms include sneezing; itchy, runny, or stuffy nose; and postnasal drip.

  • What is the most important information I should know about Astelin?

    Astelin may cause sleepiness, so do not drive, operate machinery, or perform similar activities until you know how Astelin affects you.

  • Who should not take Astelin?

    Do not take Astelin if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

  • What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Astelin?

    Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Astelin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, including all of your allergies, and if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

  • What is the usual dosage?


    Seasonal Allergies
    Adults and children ≥12 years: The recommended dose is one or two sprays per nostril twice a day.

    Children 5-11 years: The recommended dose is one spray per nostril twice a day.

    Environmental Irritation
    Adults and children ≥12 years: The recommended dose is two sprays per nostril twice a day.

  • How should I take Astelin?

    Before you first use this medication, the spray needs to be primed. To do this, remove the blue spray tip dust cover and blue safety clip. Prime the spray by putting two fingers on the spray pump and place your thumb on the bottom of the bottle. Press up with the thumb, release, and repeat four times or until a fine mist appears. If it has been more than 3 days since you last used this medication, it needs to be reprimed with two sprays or until a fine mist appears.

    To use, gently blow your nose to clear your nostrils. Keep your head tilted downward, facing your toes. Place the tip 1/4 - 1/2 inch into one nostril. Hold the bottle upright, allowing the spray to aim for the back of your nose. Close the other nostril with one finger. Quickly press down on the spray and sniff gently at the same time. Repeat in the other nostril.

  • What should I avoid while taking Astelin?

    Avoid alcohol or other medicines that may cause drowsiness. Avoid spraying Astelin into your eyes.

  • What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Astelin?

    If Astelin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Astelin with other antihistamines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants, cimetidine, or ketoconazole.

  • What are the possible side effects of Astelin?


    Side effects may include: bitter taste, drowsiness, headache, nasal inflammation/burning

  • Can I receive Astelin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

    Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breatfeeding before starting treatment with Astelin. The effects on pregnancy and nursing are unknown.

  • What should I do if I miss a dose of Astelin?

    If you miss a dose of Astelin, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

  • How should I store Astelin?

    Store upright at room temperature.

Meet the Pharmacists


Check out my latest blog post on antidepressants

Astelin Related Drugs

Astelin Related Conditions