Azelastine Uses

Azelastine nasal spray is used to relieve nasal symptoms of year-round or perennial allergic rhinitis and seasonal allergic rhinitis such as runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, and nasal itching. The prescription nasal spray can be used to relieve nonallergic rhinitis. The ophthalmic solution is used to relieve itchy and watery eyes from allergic conjunctivitis (pink eye). 

There may be other uses of azelastine—your pharmacist or doctor can give you further drug information.

Azelastine Mechanism of Action

Azelastine is an antihistamine. It works by blocking the action of a natural chemical called histamine, which causes allergy symptoms and other effects.

Azelastine Doses

Azelastine is available as a 0.15% over-the-counter nasal spray and a 0.1% and 0.15% prescription nasal spray. The pump dispenses 137 mcg/spray or 205.5 mcg/spray. It is also available as 0.05% prescription eye drops.

The usual dose of azelastine nasal spray is 1-2 sprays in each nostril 1-2 times daily. Do not use more than 2 sprays in each nostril for children 6-11 years of age and 4 sprays in each nostril for adults and children 12 years of age and above in a 24-hour period. The ophthalmic solution should be instilled 1 drop in each eye twice a day.