Azelast

Azelast Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Azelast is a brand name. Its generic name is Azelastine.

Azelast - Overview

Azelast is a prescription medication used to prevent and treat the symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, and to prevent itching of the eyes caused by allergies. It is available in an oral form, eye drops, and nasal spray.

Uses For Azelast

Azelast is used to prevent and treat the symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, and to prevent itching of the eyes caused by allergies. It is also used to prevent and treat itching of the eyes related to allergic conjunctivitis.

Mechanism of Action

Azelast works by acting on histamine receptors in the body. Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical compound that is involved in allergic reactions. Azelast works by blocking the action of the histamine and preventing it from causing allergic reactions.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Azelast typically takes effect within a few minutes of administration and can last up to 24 hours.

Absorption

Azelast is well absorbed in the body after oral, inhalation, or topical administration.

Route of Elimination

Azelast is primarily metabolised in the liver by CYP450 and then excreted in the urine and faeces.

Dosage and Administration

Azelast is available in tablet, oral suspension, eyedrop, and nasal spray forms. The appropriate dosage and administration depends on the form of azelastine being used and the medical condition being treated. For oral tablets, the usual dose is 1-2 tablets taken twice a day. For oral suspension, the usual dose is 2-4 milliliters of oral suspension taken twice a day, after meals. For eye drops, the usual dose is 2-4 drops into the affected eye(s) twice a day. For nasal spray, the usual dose is 2 sprays in each nostril twice a day.

Side Effects

Common side effects of azelastine include drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, nasal irritation, and bitter taste in the mouth. Contact your doctor if any of these effects worsen or persist.

Toxicity

Azelast has low toxicity when used at the recommended doses.

Precautions

Azelast may cause drowsiness, so use caution before performing activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. It is also important to tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking before beginning treatment with azelastine.

Interactions

Azelast may interact with other medications, causing unpredictable changes in effects or side effects. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before beginning treatment with azelastine.

Disease Interactions

Azelast may interact with certain diseases, such as renal impairment, liver disease, urinary retention, or asthma. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before beginning treatment with azelastine.

Drug Interactions

Azelast may interact with certain drugs, such as anticholinergics, MAO inhibitors, or tricyclic antidepressants. It is important to tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medications before beginning treatment with azelastine.

Food Interactions

Azelast may interact with certain foods, such as caffeine, grapefruit, or licorice. It is important to tell your doctor if you are consuming any of these foods before beginning treatment with azelastine.

Pregnancy Use

Azelast should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of its use with your doctor before beginning treatment.

Lactation Use

Azelast is not recommended for use during lactation. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of its use with your doctor before beginning treatment.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose of azelastine is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Contraindication

Azelast is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to any of the active ingredients or any of the inactive ingredients.

Use Direction

It is important to follow the exact dosing instructions provided by your doctor. Do not increase the dose or frequency of azelastine without consulting your doctor.

Storage Condition

Azelast should be stored at temperatures below 30°C (86°F).

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of azelastine is 0.39 L/kg.

Half Life

The half life of azelastine is 5-11 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of azelastine is 0.38 L/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Azelast

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Azelast

What is Azelast?

Azelast is a prescription medication used to treat allergic rhinitis, some types of sinusitis, and hives. It is a topical nasal spray and is also available as ophthalmic and topical solutions.

How does Azelast work?

Azelast works by blocking the release of certain natural substances that are involved in the allergic response or inflammation of nose tissue. This helps to reduce inflammation and relieve the symptoms associated with allergies or sinusitis.

What are the side effects of Azelast?

The most common side effects of Azelast are bitter or metallic taste in the mouth, headache, and dry mouth. Other possible side effects include nausea, dizziness, and sore throat. Speak with your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking Azelast.

Who should not use Azelast?

Azelast should not be used by people who are allergic to the active ingredient or any other ingredient in the product. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their doctor before using Azelast.

How should Azelast be used?

Azelast nasal spray should be used twice daily, one spray in each nostril. The ophthalmic solution and topical solution should be used once or twice daily, as directed by your physician.

Is Azelast habit-forming?

No, Azelast is not habit-forming.

Can Azelast cause drowsiness?

Yes, Azelast can cause drowsiness in some people, so it is important to pay attention to how your body responds to the medication. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are feeling drowsy.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Azelast?

If you miss a dose of Azelast, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.

Can Azelast be used for children?

Yes, but Azelast is not approved for use in children under the age of 12. Speak with your doctor if you are considering giving Azelast to your child.

Can Azelast be used for other conditions?

Azelast has also been prescribed to treat nasal polyps and eosinophilic esophagitis. Speak with your doctor if you think Azelast may be beneficial for another condition.

How long does it take for Azelast to work?

It usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks for Azelast to reach its full effect. Do not stop taking Azelast before speaking with your doctor.

Can I take Azelast with other medications?

Yes, but some medications may interact with Azelast. Always speak with your doctor before taking any new medications, including over-the-counter medications.

Should Azelast be refrigerated?

No, Azelast does not need to be refrigerated.

What is the difference between Azelast and Flonase?

Azelast is a topical nasal spray that is used to treat allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and hives. Flonase is a corticosteroid nasal spray used to treat allergies and other respiratory conditions.

Are there any generic forms of Azelast available?

Yes. Azelast is available in a generic form from several manufacturers.

Can Azelast be used to treat asthma?

No, Azelast is not approved for the treatment of asthma.

Is Azelast available over the counter?

No. Azelast is a prescription medication and is not available over the counter.

Can Azelast be used to treat hay fever?

Yes. Azelast is approved for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, which includes hay fever.

Can I take Azelast while pregnant?

No, Azelast should not be taken during pregnancy. Speak with your doctor before taking Azelast if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

What is the recommended dosage of Azelast?

The recommended dosage of Azelast will depend on the type of product being used.Always follow the instructions on the label and speak with your doctor if you have any questions.

Can Azelast cause loss of smell?

Yes, loss of smell is a possible side effect of Azelast. Speak with your doctor if this occurs.

Does Azelast have to be taken on an empty stomach?

No. Azelast does not have to be taken on an empty stomach.

Is Azelast available as an over-the-counter eye drop?

No, Azelast is not available as an over-the-counter eye drop.

Does Azelast interact with other medications?

Yes, Azelast can potentially interact with other medications. Always speak with your doctor before taking any new medications, including over-the-counter medications.

Can Azelast be used to treat nasal congestion?

Yes, Azelast can be used to treat nasal congestion caused by allergies or sinusitis.

What is the active ingredient in Azelast?

The active ingredient in Azelast is azelastine hydrochloride.

Does Azelast cause weight gain?

No, weight gain is not a known side effect of Azelast.

Can Azelast make me drowsy?

Yes, Azelast can cause drowsiness in some people. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are feeling drowsy.

Can Azelast be used to treat itching?

Yes, Azelast can be used to treat itching caused by allergies, sinusitis or hives.

Can Azelast cause headaches?

Yes, headaches are a common side effect of Azelast.

Can I take Azelast while breastfeeding?

No, Azelast is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Speak with your doctor if you are considering taking Azelast while breastfeeding.

Can Azelast cause dry mouth?

Yes, dry mouth is a common side effect of Azelast.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Azelast?

It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Azelast. Alcohol can increase some of the side effects of Azelast.

Is Azelast an antihistamine?

Yes. Azelast is an antihistamine, which means it blocks the production of histamine to treat allergies.

Should Azelast be used long-term?

Azelast should only be used long-term if prescribed by your doctor. Do not use Azelast for a prolonged period of time without speaking with your doctor.

What are the storage instructions for Azelast?

Azelast should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets.

How long does it take for Azelast to be effective?

It usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks for Azelast to reach its full effect. Do not stop taking Azelast before speaking with your doctor.

Can I swallow Azelast?

No, do not swallow Azelast. Azelast is to be applied to the nasal passages, eyes, or skin, depending on the product.

Is Azelast a steroid?

No, Azelast is not a steroid. It is an antihistamine that blocks the production of histamines to reduce inflammation and allergies.

Does Azelast expire?

Yes, all forms of Azelast have an expiration date. Check the expiration date on the package before each use.

How long should I take Azelast?

The length of time you should take Azelast will depend on your condition and how your body responds to the medication. Always speak with your doctor before discontinuing use of Azelast.

What is the difference between Azelast and Claritin?

Azelast is an antihistamine that is used to treat allergies, hives, and some types of sinusitis. Claritin is a non-drowsy antihistamine used to treat various types of allergies.

Can Azelast cause constipation?

No, constipation is not a known side effect of Azelast.

Does Azelast cause stomach upset?

Yes, stomach upset is a possible side effect of Azelast. Speak with your doctor if you experience any discomfort while taking Azelast.

Can Azelast cause blurred vision?

Yes, blurred vision is a possible side effect of Azelast. Speak with your doctor if you experience any vision changes while taking Azelast.