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Astelin

Brand Names

; Astelin® ; Optivar™

Antihistamine

This medicine relieves symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, nasal irritation, itching) from allergies. Can be used in adults and children 5 years old and older.
The eye preparation treats eye itching caused by seasonal allergies.

Azelastine, if taken before coming in contact with the material that causes the allergy, blocks the allergic reaction by minimizing/preventing the body's reaction to the allergen.

For the nose only.
Avoid spraying in your eyes.
Read instructions on use given with medicine.
There is also an eye solution available.
Take out contact lenses before using medicine. Lenses can be replaced 15 minutes after medicine is given, but do not replace if eyes are red.
This medicine is not for treatment of contact lens irritation.
After applying drop to affected eye then close eyes. Apply pressure to inside corner of eye. Do this for 3-5 minutes. This keeps medicine in eye.
Separate other eye medicine by 5 minutes.
Do not touch bottle tip to eye, lid, or other skin.
This medicine is most effective if started before contact with the allergen.

Instill a missed dose as soon as possible.
If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Return to your regular schedule.
Do not use a double dose or extra doses.

Wear disease alert identification for allergies.
Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.
Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
Do not use if you are breast-feeding.

Feeling sleepy or unable to think clearly. Avoid driving, doing other tasks or activities that require you to be alert until you see how this medicine affects you.
For nasal solution, bitter taste.
For eye solution, burning, stinging, headaches, or bitter taste.

Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Any rash.
No improvement in condition or feeling worse.

Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant).
Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).