Astelin^® (azelastine hydrochloride) is a prescription nasal spray approved to treat sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and nasal itching (known medically as rhinitis). This medication is approved to treat these symptoms when they are due to either seasonal allergens (known as seasonal allergic rhinitis) or to other irritants (known as rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis).

 

Astelin is an antihistamine nasal spray that acts in at least two different ways. It helps prevent the release of histamine from mast cells, and if any histamine is released, Astelin prevents it from binding to histamine receptors. Because histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of allergies, blocking it can be helpful. Although most people tolerate this medication well, side effects are possible and may include headaches, drowsiness, and nasal burning.

 

The medication is typically taken twice a day. It comes in just one strength -- Astelin nasal spray, containing 200 sprays in each bottle, with 137 mcg of medication in each spray.