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Azelastine (nasal/eye): uses, side effects & brands
Azelastine is an antihistamine nasal spray/eye drop for allergy symptoms. It belongs to the Antihistamine (extra) group. More antihistamines for allergy symptoms, mostly low-drowsiness.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Antihistamine (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Allergic rhinitis (nasal spray)
- Non-allergic runny or blocked nose (vasomotor rhinitis)
- Itchy, watery allergic eyes (eye drops)
- Combined with a steroid nasal spray in some products
Common brand names
- India: Azep, Arzep
- Worldwide: Astelin, Optivar
Common side effects
- Bitter taste after spraying
- Drowsiness
- Nasal irritation or nosebleeds
- Stinging with eye drops
Before taking it — precautions
- It can cause drowsiness; take care driving and limit alcohol
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Remove contact lenses before using the eye drops
When to see a doctor urgently
- Frequent or heavy nosebleeds
- Swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing (urgent)
- Eye pain or change in vision
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of azelastine depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
How can I reduce the bitter taste?
Tilt your head slightly forward while spraying and avoid sniffing hard afterwards.
How fast does it work?
It usually starts relieving symptoms quickly, often within minutes to an hour.
Can I use it with a steroid nasal spray?
Yes, the two are often used together, and some sprays contain both.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.