Azelastine (Nasal Route)

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Proper Use

Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.

This medicine usually comes with patient information insert. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

This medicine is for use only in the nose. Do not get any of it in your eyes or on your mouth. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.

Before using this medicine, gently blow your nose to clear the nostrils.

To prepare this medicine:

• Before you use a new bottle of azelastine spray, the spray pump will need to be primed (started). If your pharmacist assembled the unit for you, check to see if it has already been primed by pumping the unit once. If a full spray comes out, the unit has already been primed; if not you must prime the pump.
• To prime a new bottle, hold the bottle upright and away from you, then pump it six times or until you see a fine spray.
• If you have not used the spray for 3 or more days, pump it two times or until you see a fine spray.

To keep the applicator clean, wipe the nosepiece with a clean tissue and replace the dust cap after each use.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For nasal dosage form (spray):
  • For symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis:
    • Adults, teenagers, and children 12 years of age and older—1 or 2 sprays in each nostril two times a day, or 2 sprays in each nostril once a day.
    • Children up to 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis:
    • Adults, teenagers, and children 12 years of age and older—2 sprays in each nostril two times a day.
    • Children up to 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For treatment of vasomotor rhinitis:
    • Adults and teenagers—Use 2 sprays in each nostril two times a day.
    • Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Store the bottle upright with the pump tightly closed.

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