Azelastine is an antihistamine medication primarily used to relieve symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, and allergic conjunctivitis. It works by blocking histamine, a natural substance in the body that triggers allergic reactions. Like all medications, azelastine can cause side effects, and understanding their typical duration is important for users.
Common Side Effects and Expected Duration
A common side effect of azelastine nasal spray is a bitter taste in the mouth. This sensation typically occurs shortly after administration and usually resolves within minutes to an hour. Rinsing the mouth with water or tilting the head slightly forward during administration can help minimize this temporary discomfort.
Drowsiness or tiredness is another frequently reported side effect. The duration of this effect can vary among individuals, often subsiding as the body adjusts to the medication. Azelastine has a prolonged duration of activity, lasting up to 12 hours, and drowsiness can align with this period.
Nasal irritation is a common local side effect with the nasal spray. These sensations are generally mild and temporary, often resolving within a few minutes to hours. Continued use may also lead to the body adapting, causing these irritations to diminish over time.
Less common side effects include nosebleeds (epistaxis), which are usually mild and resolve quickly. Headaches are also reported by some users, with their duration varying, but they often improve with consistent medication use. Dry mouth is another mild and temporary side effect.
Factors Influencing Side Effect Duration
Each person’s metabolism influences how quickly the drug is absorbed, distributed, and eliminated from the system. Azelastine has an elimination half-life of approximately 22 to 25 hours, meaning it takes this long for half of the drug to be cleared from the body.
The specific formulation of azelastine also plays a role in the types and duration of side effects experienced. Nasal sprays primarily cause local effects like nasal irritation and bitter taste, while eye drops may lead to eye irritation. The dosage and frequency of use can also influence how long side effects persist, with higher doses potentially leading to more prolonged effects.
Other medications can interact with azelastine, potentially extending or intensifying its side effects. For instance, combining azelastine with other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol or certain cold and allergy products, can increase drowsiness. Underlying health conditions, particularly those affecting the liver or kidneys, might also impact the body’s ability to clear the drug.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While most side effects of azelastine are mild and temporary, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. If common side effects like drowsiness, headache, or bitter taste become severe, worsen, or do not improve within a few days to a couple of weeks, consult a healthcare provider.
Immediate medical attention is necessary for signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Severe or persistent nosebleeds, vision changes like blurred vision or eye pain, and severe dizziness or headache also require prompt medical evaluation. Additionally, if you develop signs of an ear infection, such as ear pain, fullness, or drainage, while using azelastine, contact your doctor. This information is not a substitute for personalized medical advice; do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.