Explanation

Azelastine hydrochloride (also called Rhinolast or Optilast) is a type of medicine called an anti-histamine which is used for treating hay fever and other allergies.

How does it work?

Azelastine hydrochloride works by blocking histamine - the chemical that causes some of the symptoms of hay fever and other allergies in your body.

What does it look like?

Azelastine hydrochloride comes as both a spray that you use in your nose and in a small bottle that you use as eye drops.

When do I use it and how much do I use?

Your doctor will tell you when to use your azelastine hydrochloride.

If you have symptoms like an itchy, runny or blocked nose, you will probably need to use the spray once in each nostril in the morning, and once in each nostril in the evening.

If you have red or itchy eyes caused by hay fever or other allergies, you will probably need to use one drop in each eye in the morning, and one drop in each eye at night. If your doctor tells you to use a different amount you should use how much he or she has told you to.

But what if I don't feel like using it?

It's important that you use your azelastine hydrochloride when your doctor has told you to. If you don't, your itchy, runny or blocked nose may come back or get even worse. If you are using the eye drops, your eyes might become even more red and itchy.

What should I do if I forget to use it?

If you forget to use your azelastine hydrochloride, don't worry. Just use it when you remember if it's not too late, and then continue using it as normal. If it's close to the time you would normally have it then either use it when you remember or when you normally use it, but don't take it at both times - remember the three Ds: Don't Double Dose!

What are the most likely side effects I might get?

When you are using the nasal spray, azelastine hydrochloride can cause a bitter taste in your mouth, which can sometimes make you feel sick. This often happens if you tilt your head back too far when you use the spray. You should keep your head upright when you spray azelastine hydrochloride in your nose, to avoid this side effect.

If you use the eye drops, azelastine hydrochloride may irritate your eye for a short time after using it. It's unlikely but it can also give you a bitter taste in your mouth.

What other side effects might I get?

Azelastine hydrochloride can also irritate the lining of your nose when you use the nasal spray. This might make your nose sting or itch, or make you sneeze, but this will most likely go away quickly. It may also give you nosebleeds, but these are very unlikely.

It's unusual but azelastine hydrochloride can cause an allergic reaction. If you notice any signs like swelling, redness or itching or you are having trouble breathing make sure you tell your doctor straight away.

Is it safe for me to take azelastine hydrochloride?

Before you use your azelastine hydrochloride, tell your doctor about any other medical problems that you know you have.

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to azelastine hydrochloride, you shouldn't start using it as it could be very dangerous. Tell your doctor so that he or she can choose another medicine to treat your hay fever.

Also, if you are allergic to benzalkonium chloride, tell your doctor because this is also used in the azelastine hydrochloride eye drops.

Is it okay for me to take azelastine hydrochloride if I am already taking other medicines?

Azelastine hydrochloride is usually safe to use with other medicines but it is still very important for you to tell your doctor about any other medicines that you are taking, or have taken, recently, including herbal medicines.

Is there anything else I need to know about azelastine hydrochloride?

When you store your azelastine hydrochloride, don't keep it in the fridge.

You also shouldn't use the azelastine hydrochloride eye drops if you are wearing contact lenses.

What if I have any more questions?

If you have any other questions, you can ask your doctor, or chat to other people about aelastine hydrochloride in the Medikidz forums and virtual world, Mediland.