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azelastine allergy

Generic Astepro
Used for Allergic Rhinitis
Used for Allergic Rhinitis

Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine nasal spray that's used to treat nasal symptoms due to allergies, such as stuffy nose, sneezing, and runny nose. Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is available over-the-counter (OTC) for adults and children 6 years and older. The strength of Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is 0.15%. The dosage depends on your age, but it's usually sprayed into the nose once or twice a day. Side effects can include a bitter taste in the mouth, nasal discomfort, and sneezing.

Note: Azelastine nasal spray is also available by prescription in 0.1% and 0.15% strengths.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on June 23, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Astepro Allergy (azelastine)?

What is Astepro Allergy (azelastine) used for?

Short-term relief of nasal symptoms due to allergies:

  • Stuffy nose

  • Runny nose

  • Sneezing

  • Itchy nose

How Astepro Allergy (azelastine) works

Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine. It works in your nose to block histamine, a natural chemical in your body that causes runny nose, itching, and sneezing. By blocking histamine, Astepro Allergy (azelastine) helps relieve allergy nasal symptoms.

Are you looking for information on azelastine prescription nasal spray or azelastine eye drops instead?
When does Astepro Allergy (azelastine) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAstepro Allergy, Children's Astepro Allergy
Drug ClassAntihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter

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What are the side effects of Astepro Allergy (azelastine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Bitter taste (up to 6%)
  • Nasal discomfort (up to 4%)
  • Nosebleed (up to 2%)
  • Sneezing (up to 2%)

Other Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Tiredness
  • Drowsiness

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reaction: skin rash
  • Severe or frequent nosebleeds
When do Astepro Allergy (azelastine) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Bitter taste in mouth
Nasal discomfort
Sleepiness

Source: DailyMed

More on Astepro Allergy (azelastine) side effects

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The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Cough

difficulty breathing

noisy breathing

shortness of breath

tightness in chest

wheezing

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Bitter taste in mouth

headaches

temporary eye burning or stinging

Less common

Burning, dry or itching eyes

blurred vision, temporary

chills

diarrhea

eye discharge or excessive tearing

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

hoarseness or other voice changes

itching skin

joint pain

loss of appetite

muscle aches and pains

nausea

redness, pain, swelling of eye, eyelid, or inner lining of eyelid

runny nose

shivering

sneezing

sore throat

stuffy nose

sweating

tender, swollen glands in neck

trouble in swallowing

trouble sleeping

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Astepro Allergy (azelastine)

thumbs-up

Pros

Available over the counter; doesn't require a prescription

Sprayed directly in the nose

Can work within 15 to 30 minutes to relieve allergy symptoms

thumbs-down

Cons

Not approved for children younger than 6 years old

Can cause drowsiness

Might leave a bitter taste in your mouth

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Astepro Allergy (azelastine)

pharmacist

  • Only spray Astepro Allergy (azelastine) in your nose. Don't spray the medication into your eyes or mouth because this can be harmful.

    • Be sure to ask your primary care provider or pharmacist before you use Astepro Allergy (azelastine) if you've recently had nose ulcers, a nose injury that's not fully healed yet, or nose surgery. This medication might not be appropriate for you to use.

      • Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that make you feel sleepy while you're using Astepro Allergy (azelastine). This combination can worsen sleepiness and could lead to falls or other dangerous accidents.

        • Don't drive until you know how Astepro Allergy (azelastine) affects you. This medication can sometimes make people sleepy and affect the ability to think clearly.

          • Never share your bottle of Astepro Allergy (azelastine) with anyone else because this could lead to infections.

            • Ask your primary care provider about whether it's safe for you to use Astepro Allergy (azelastine) if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. There isn't enough information to know whether this medication is safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Your primary care provider can discuss the risks and benefits of using Astepro Allergy (azelastine) with you.

              • Get medical help or call a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away if you accidentally use too much Astepro Allergy (azelastine) or if a child accidentally swallows the medication.

                Tips on how to use Astepro Allergy (azelastine):

                • Carefully review the instructions on your package so you know how to use Astepro Allergy (azelastine) properly.

                  • Before you use a bottle of Astepro Allergy (azelastine) for the first time, you'll need to prime the bottle. Pump the spray bottle away from your face until a fine mist comes out. Priming the bottle makes sure you get a full dose of the medication when you need to spray it into your nose. Your spray bottle might be clogged if you don't see a fine mist after 6 sprays.

                    • When you're ready to use Astepro Allergy (azelastine), blow your nose and tilt your head forward. Then, close one nostril and insert the tip of the spray bottle in the other. As you spray the medication into your nostril, breathe in lightly through your nose. Follow the recommended number of sprays per nostril on the product's directions for use.

                      • Wait a few minutes after you use Astepro Allergy (azelastine) to tilt your head back or to blow your nose. This makes sure the medication stays in your nose instead of going into your throat and causing a bitter taste or getting onto your tissue.

                        • After you use Astepro Allergy (azelastine), wipe the spray tip with a clean tissue and put the cap on the bottle.

                          • If your Astepro Allergy (azelastine) bottle gets clogged, unscrew the spray pump by turning it left. Then, soak the spray pump in warm water. Pump several times while it's under the water to clear it. Let the spray pump air dry before you screw it back on. Never try to unclog the nozzle with a sharp object because that could damage it.

                            • When you haven't used Astepro Allergy (azelastine) for 3 or more days or if you need to unclog the nozzle, prime the bottle before you use it again.

                              More on Astepro Allergy (azelastine) tips

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                              faqs

                              Frequently asked questions about Astepro Allergy (azelastine)

                              Is Astepro Allergy (azelastine) a steroid?
                              No, Astepro Allergy (azelastine) isn't a steroid. It's an antihistamine nasal spray. Both steroid and antihistamine nasal sprays can help relieve nasal allergy symptoms, but they work differently in the nose.
                              How many sprays are in Astepro Allergy (azelastine)?
                              Astepro Allergy (azelastine) comes in different sizes that contain a different number of sprays: 22, 60, or 120 sprays. Check the packaging to find out how many sprays your Astepro Allergy (azelastine) bottle has. Ask a pharmacist if you're not sure how many sprays are in the Astepro Allergy (azelastine) product you have.
                              Does Astepro Allergy (azelastine) raise blood pressure?
                              No, Astepro Allergy (azelastine) isn't known to raise blood pressure. Talk to a primary care provider if you happen to notice that your blood pressure is higher than usual. Your primary care provider can check whether there's something else going on.
                              Does Astepro Allergy (azelastine) cause drowsiness?
                              It's possible for Astepro Allergy (azelastine) to make you feel drowsy. Avoid alcohol or medications that make you sleepy while you're taking Astepro Allergy (azelastine) because they can worsen this side effect. Don't drive or perform activities that require you to be alert until you know how Astepro Allergy (azelastine) affects you.
                              Is Astepro Allergy (azelastine) the same as Flonase?
                              No. Although Astepro Allergy (azelastine) and fluticasone (Flonase) are both nasal sprays that help relieve allergy symptoms, they're two different medications. Fluticasone (Flonase) is a steroid medication, and Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine. They work differently to improve your nasal allergy symptoms. Talk to a healthcare professional about which medication is best for you.
                              What's the difference between Astepro Allergy (azelastine) and Nasacort?
                              Both Astepro Allergy (azelastine) and triamcinolone (Nasacort) are over-the-counter nasal sprays that can relieve nasal allergy symptoms. One difference is that Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is an antihistamine and triamcinolone (Nasacort) is a steroid. They work differently to treat allergy symptoms. In addition, Astepro Allergy (azelastine) might work faster than triamcinolone (Nasacort). Another difference is that children ages 6 years and older can use Astepro Allergy (azelastine) whereas children as young as 2 years old can use triamcinolone (Nasacort). Unlike with Astepro Allergy (azelastine), there's a risk for slowed growth if young children use triamcinolone (Nasacort) for more than 2 months per year. Ask a healthcare professional to help you compare between the two medications.
                              How long do Astepro Allergy (azelastine) side effects last?
                              Some side effects, like bitter taste, nasal discomfort and sneezing, might only last a short while right after you spray Astepro Allergy (azelastine) into your nose. Other possible side effects, like feeling sleepy or headaches, might last a little longer. In some cases, certain side effects might last until you stop taking the medication. Let your primary care provider know about any bothersome side effects so they can help you manage your side effects.
                              How long can you take Astepro Allergy (azelastine)?
                              There isn't a set amount of time that you should take Astepro Allergy (azelastine). You can use Astepro Allergy (azelastine) as directed on the packaging for your nasal allergy symptoms as long as it's working well and not causing side effects for you. Talk to your primary care provider about how long you should take Astepro Allergy (azelastine).
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                              What are the risks and warnings for Astepro Allergy (azelastine)?

                              Astepro Allergy (azelastine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                              risk-warning

                              Possible sleepiness and difficulty concentrating

                              • Risk factors: Drinking alcohol while using Astepro Allergy (azelastine) | Taking other medications that make you less alert

                                Astepro Allergy (azelastine) can sometimes make you feel sleepy, which might lower your ability to focus, think, and react quickly. Be careful and avoid activities that require you to be alert, such as driving a car or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you. Avoid drinking alcohol or medications that can make you feel sleepy while you're taking Astepro Allergy (azelastine).

                                dosage

                                Astepro Allergy (azelastine) dosage forms

                                The average cost for 1 nasal spray of 23ml of 205.5mcg/spray of Astepro Allergy (azelastine) is $32.41 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 4.29% off the average retail price of $33.86.
                                nasal spray
                                Nasal spray
                                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                                23ml of 205.5mcg/spray1 nasal spray$32.41$32.41

                                Typical dosing for Astepro Allergy (azelastine)

                                • Adults and children 12 years and older: The typical dose is 2 sprays in each nostril once daily, OR 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril every 12 hours. Don't use more than 4 sprays in each nostril in a 24-hour period.

                                • Children 6 to 11 years old: The typical dose is 1 spray in each nostril every 12 hours. Don't use more than 2 sprays in each nostril in a 24-hour period.

                                • Children younger than 6 years old: Don't use. Ask your child's pediatrician for other options.

                                More on Astepro Allergy (azelastine) dosage forms

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                                interactions

                                Interactions between Astepro Allergy (azelastine) and other drugs

                                Astepro Allergy (azelastine) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Astepro Allergy (azelastine). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                                How much does Astepro Allergy (azelastine) cost?

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                                alternatives

                                What are alternatives to Astepro Allergy (azelastine)?

                                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Astepro Allergy (azelastine). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                                Astepro Allergy (azelastine)
                                Used for:

                                Short-term relief of nasal symptoms due to allergies:

                                • Stuffy nose

                                • Runny nose

                                • Sneezing

                                • Itchy nose

                                $32.41 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                Fluticasone nasal spray
                                Used for:

                                • Congestion

                                • Runny nose

                                • Sneezing

                                • Itchy nose

                                • Itchy, watery eyes

                                $14.28 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                Azelastine nasal spray
                                Used for:

                                • Seasonal allergy symptoms related to the nose

                                • Year-round allergy symptoms related to the nose - azelastine 0.15% spray only

                                • Runny or stuffy nose that isn't caused by allergies - azelastine 0.1% spray only

                                $15.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                latest news

                                What is the latest news about Astepro Allergy (azelastine)?

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                                Read on for Astepro nasal spray dosage information, including typical dosage, adjustments for health conditions, and what to do if you miss a dose.

                                Astepro Dosages: Your GoodRx Guide

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                                Postnasal drip treatment will vary depending on what causes it. Most healthcare professionals recommend using humidifiers and saline rinses to stop postnasal drip.

                                What Causes Postnasal Drip (PND)? Plus 6 Ways to Stop It

                                Postnasal drip treatment will vary depending on what causes it. Most healthcare professionals recommend using humidifiers and saline rinses to stop postnasal drip.
                                Not all cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, but select treatments like ibuprofen and Benadryl are okay. See a list of cold medications you can use while breastfeeding.

                                Taking Cold Medicine While Breastfeeding: Is It Safe?

                                Not all cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, but select treatments like ibuprofen and Benadryl are okay. See a list of cold medications you can use while breastfeeding.
                                GoodRx pharmacists explain Astepro nasal spray and its benefits to help you combat your allergies.

                                Astepro Nasal Spray: What to Know About This Non-Steroid Allergy Medicine

                                GoodRx pharmacists explain Astepro nasal spray and its benefits to help you combat your allergies.

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                                References

                                Best studies we found

                                Bayer HealthCare LLC. (2021). AstePro Allergy [package insert]. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

                                Bayer HealthCare LLC. (2023). Astepro Allergy- azelastine hcl spray, metered [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                Horbal, J. M., et al. (2010). Azelastine HCl: A review of the old and new formulations. Clinical Medicine Insights.

                                View All References (1)

                                Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (2021). Azelastine HCl Nasal- azelastine hcl spray [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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