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Optivar
Other Name
Astelin, Azelastine
WHY is this medicine prescribed?
Azelastine, an antihistamine, is used to treat hay
fever and allergy symptoms including runny nose,
sneezing, and itchy nose.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other
uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.
HOW should this medicine be used?
Azelastine is dispensed as a nasal spray or
eyedrops.
Azelastine nasal spray is usually sprayed in each
nostril two times a day. Follow the directions on
your prescription label carefully, and ask your
doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not
understand. Use azelastine exactly as directed.
Do not use more or less of it or use it more often
than prescribed by your doctor.
Before using azelastine for the first time, remove
the child-resistant screw cap and replace with the
pump unit. Prime the delivery system (pump unit)
with four sprays or until a fine mist
appears. If 3 days or more have elapsed since your
last use of the nasal spray, reprime the pump with
two sprays or until a fine mist appears.
What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?
Before using azelastine:
-
tell your doctor
and pharmacist if you are allergic to azelastine
or any other drugs.
-
tell your doctor
and pharmacist what prescription and
nonprescription medications you are taking,
especially other cold and allergy products,
antihistamines, and vitamins.
-
tell your doctor
if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or
are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while
using azelastine, call your doctor.
-
if you are
having surgery, including dental surgery, tell
the doctor or dentist that you are using
azelastine.
-
you should know
that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive
a car or operate machinery until you know how
this drug affects you.
-
remember that
alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this
drug.
What should I do
IF I FORGET to take a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember it.
However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and continue your regular
dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up
for a missed one.
What SIDE EFFECTS can this medicine cause?
Although side effects from azelastine are not
common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of
these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:
-
bitter taste
-
tiredness
-
weight increase
-
muscle pain
-
nasal burning
What STORAGE
CONDITIONS are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medication in the container it came in,
tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store
it at room temperature and away from excess heat and
moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any
medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of
your medication.
What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your
pharmacist any questions you have about refilling
your prescription.
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