Azelastine Azelastine Azelastine is a potent, second-generation, selective, histamine antagonist (histamine-H-receptor antagonist) used as a first line therapy of mild intermittent, moderate/severe intermittent and mild persistent rhinitis (new classification system for rhinitis). Azelastine has been formulated both as a nasal spray and as eye drops and are available worldwide under many brand names. Azelastine nasal spray is indicated for the local treatment of the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial allergic rhinitis, such as rhinorrhea, sneezing and nasal pruritus in adults and children 5 years of age and older. In some countries, it is also indicated for the treatment of
Rhinitis medicamentosa nose without causing RM if the spray does not contain a decongestant. Symptoms of congestion and runny nose can often be treated with corticosteroid nasal sprays under the supervision of a physician. For very severe cases, oral steroids or nasal surgery may be necessary. For RM caused by topical decongestants, there are anecdotal reports of persons having success by withdrawing treatment from one nostril at a time. A study has shown that the anti-infective agent benzalkonium chloride, which is frequently added to topical nasal sprays as a preservative, aggravates the condition by further increasing the rebound swelling. Rhinitis medicamentosa Rhinitis