Astelin (azelastine) is a non-steroidal prescription antihistamine nasal spray used to treat symptoms associated with seasonal or environmental allergens. This medication works by blocking the action of histamine--a chemical in the body that is responsible for causing allergy symptoms, such as sneezing or nasal congestion. Administration of this medication involves spraying Astelin into each nostril up to two times daily. Speak with your doctor if you have any concerns regarding potential Astelin side effects.
Bitter Taste
Treatment with Astelin can cause you to experience an unpleasant or bitter taste within your mouth after administration of this medication. In clinical trials for this medication, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported that 19.7 percent of 391 patients receiving Astelin experienced a bitter taste following treatment. In contrast, only 0.6 percent of patients receiving placebo treatment experience similar side effects. Such side effects will typically subside shortly after Astelin treatment but may reoccur with subsequent dosing.
Nasal Irritation
Astelin treatment can cause nasal irritation to occur in some patients as a side effect of this medication. Nasal irritation can cause sensations of burning or stinging within your nasal passages. Certain people can develop mild nasal bleeding after receiving a dose of Astelin. You may find that your nose feels itchy, or you can begin to sneeze immediately following treatment. Such side effects are temporary and will resolve once treatment with Astelin ends. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop recurrent or severe nosebleeds during Astelin treatment.
Headache
While receiving treatment with Astelin, you can experience headache as a side effect of this medication. Headache symptoms are typically mild to moderate in severity and can arise shortly after nasal administration of this medication. If you experience headache as a side effect of Astelin, consider taking an over-the-counter analgesic medication, such as acetaminophen, to resolve any painful symptoms you experience. Recurrence of headache side effects typically subside with continued Astelin treatment.
Fatigue
You can experience abnormal sensations of tiredness or fatigue as a side effect of Astelin. Such side effects can interfere with your ability to complete your usual work or school responsibilities. You may find that you need to go to bed earlier or sleep later in the morning in order to feel refreshed and energized. Side effects of fatigue or tiredness are temporary and typically resolve once treatment with Astelin has ended.
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