Key takeaways:
Astepro (azelastine) is an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine nasal spray for allergies. Knowing how to properly use it will help you get the most out of your nasal spray.
A common Astepro dosage for people age 12 and older is 2 sprays in each nostril once a day. You can also use 1 to 2 sprays every 12 hours. Don’t administer more than 4 sprays in each nostril in a 24-hour period.
The recommended Astepro dosage for children age 6 to 11 is 1 spray in each nostril every 12 hours. Don’t use more than 2 sprays in each nostril in a 24-hour period. Don’t give Astepro to children under age 6.
Astepro is available OTC as a brand-name medication. But you can also find it as a lower-cost generic with a prescription. If a healthcare professional writes you a prescription for Astepro, GoodRx can help make it more affordable.
Seasonal allergies can turn your day into a sneeze-fest. Luckily, nasal sprays are available to manage symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, or nasal congestion. Astepro (azelastine) is an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine spray that can provide fast relief.
To get the most out of this nasal spray, you’ll want to make sure you’re following recommended dosages. Let’s dive into typical Astepro dosages for adults and children so you can get the allergy relief you need.
There are two recommended Astepro dosage options for adults:
Once-daily option: Use 2 sprays in each nostril once a day.
Twice-daily option: Use 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril every 12 hours.
Maximum Astepro dosage: Four sprays in each nostril is the max dosage in a 24-hour period.
The typical Astepro dosages for children depend on a child’s age. Adolescents age 12 and older can follow the adult dosages listed above.
For children under age 12, the recommended Astepro dosages are as follows:
Children age 6 to 11 years old: Use 1 spray in each nostril every 12 hours. Don’t administer more than 2 sprays in each nostril in a 24-hour period.
Children under age 6: Do not use Astepro.
It’s a good idea to administer doses of Astepro for your child, especially if they’re under age 12. If your child is able to give themself doses, it’s recommended to supervise them and make sure they’re using it correctly.
Good to know: Astepro’s manufacturer sells a version of the nasal spray labeled “Children’s Astepro.” This contains the same medication at the same dose as the version that’s labeled for adults. Both versions also include dosage information for all age ranges.
Using Astepro the right way ensures you get the most benefit. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Blow your nose to clear mucus that might be in your nose.
Remove the blue cap and clip from the bottle. Don’t throw them away.
Prime the spray if you’re using it for the first time or haven’t used it in at least 3 days. To prime, point it away from your face and spray it into the air until you see a fine mist. This may take up to 6 pumps.
Tilt your head down toward your toes and insert the nozzle into one nostril. Close the other nostril with a finger. Aim the nozzle toward the back of your nasal passage.
Spray while sniffing gently. Avoid tipping your head back right after using Astepro. This can cause a bitter taste in your mouth.
Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the other nostril.
Wipe the nozzle with a clean, dry tissue after each use to keep it free of residue. Replace the blue cap and clip before storing it away.
Wash your hands with soap and water again.
To avoid spreading germs, don’t share Astepro bottles with other people.
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There are no specific Astepro dosage adjustments for certain medical conditions. But it may not be safe for everyone to use this nasal spray.
Talk to a healthcare professional before using Astepro if you:
Are allergic to any of the ingredients in Astepro
Are pregnant or nursing
Experience frequent or severe nosebleeds
Have had recent nose ulcers
Have had recent nose surgery
Have a nose injury that hasn’t healed
If you miss a dose of Astepro, use it as soon as you remember. If it’s getting close to your next dose, just skip the missed one. Administer your next dose at its usual time. Don’t double up on Astepro to try to make up for missed doses.
Like many other antihistamines, Astepro can be used for both quick relief and symptom prevention. But it works best for preventing allergies if you use it every day. There are many tips to help you remember your doses. Two examples include setting an alarm or using a smartphone medication reminder app, such as GoodRx Medicine Cabinet.
Using an extra dose or two of Astepro is unlikely to cause serious harm. But you may notice more side effects than usual. Possible Astepro side effects include a bitter taste, nasal discomfort, and drowsiness.
If you, your child, or someone else administers an excessive amount of Astepro, contact a healthcare professional. You can also contact Poison Control online or at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. They can let you know if you should seek further care.
There are ways to save on Astepro, which is available as both a brand-name and generic medication. By having a healthcare professional write a prescription for Astepro, GoodRx can help you save.
Save with GoodRx. GoodRx can help you save 80% off the average retail price of the generic version. Generic Astepro's price at certain pharmacies is as low as $13.61 with a free GoodRx coupon.
Save with a coupon from the manufacturer. If you're purchasing brand-name Astepro without a prescription, the manufacturer has a $2 coupon available, which you can have emailed to you. Just present it at the register during your purchase.
Astepro (azelastine) is an over-the-counter nasal spray for allergies. A common Astepro dosage for people age 12 and older is 2 sprays in each nostril once a day. You can also use 1 to 2 sprays every 12 hours. Don’t administer more than 4 sprays in each nostril in a 24-hour period.
Children age 6 to 11 can use 1 spray in each nostril every 12 hours. Don’t use more than 2 sprays in each nostril in a 24-hour period. It’s not recommended to give Astepro to children under age 6.
Be sure to review instructions for how to use Astepro before you start it. This will help you get your full dose.
Bayer HealthCare. (2024). Astepro allergy- azelastine hcl spray, metered [package insert]. DailyMed.
Bayer HealthCare. (2024). Children Astepro allergy- azelastine hcl spray, metered [package insert]. DailyMed.
MedlinePlus. (2023). Azelastine nasal spray.
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