Sold as Astelin and Astepro, azelastine is a prescription medication used to alleviate the symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis and allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, itching and nasal congestion. It is inhaled as a spray; one or two sprays are administered per nostril once or twice per day, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Serious Side Effects
All known serious side effects from using the azelastine nasal spray are rare. These serious but rare side effects include mouth sores, sores on the lips, blood in the urine, skin rash, cough, hives, eye pain, bodily itching, eye redness, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), wheezing, blurred vision, shortness of breath, changes in visual acuity, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. According to Drugs.com, other severe side effects may include swelling of the face, lips or tongue.
Common Side Effects
Azelastine spray may also cause some common side effects that will probably be temporary. According to the Mayo Clinic, once your body acclimates to azelastine, these side effects should go away. Consult your doctor if the side effects persist or if they are bothersome to deal with. The most common of these types of side effects are drowsiness and a taste of bitterness in your mouth.
Rare Side Effects
These side effects rarely require medical attention unless they continue past the initial period of azelastine use. These rare side effects include weight gain, nasal mucus that contains blood, abnormal tiredness, unexplained nosebleeds, uncommon weakness, a sensation of burning in the nostrils and sudden sneezing outbursts. Others may include dizziness, sore throat, dry mouth, nausea, headache or muscle pain.
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