Zelanex
Form: Nasal Spray
Strength: 137mcg
Generic Name: Azelastine Hydrochloride
Company: Opsonin Pharma Limited
MRP:৳ 180.45 (120 metered sprays)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
It is used to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children over 5 years old, and vasomotor rhinitis in adults and adolescents over 12 years old. It is also used to treat and prevent the symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis in adults and children over 4 years old, and non-seasonal allergic conjunctivitis in adults and children over 12 years old.
Pharmacology
It contains azelastine hydrochloride, which is an antihistamine that works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance the body makes during an allergic reaction. Azelastine helps reduce eye inflammation. It is a long-acting anti-allergic drug that also has anti-inflammatory effects. It works by stopping the release of chemicals like histamine, leukotrienes, PAF, and serotonin, which are involved in allergic reactions.
Dosage & Administration
Nasal Spray:
Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: For adults and adolescents 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is one or two sprays in each nostril twice daily. For children 5 to 11 years old, one spray in each nostril twice daily.
Vasomotor Rhinitis: For adults and adolescents 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is two sprays in each nostril twice daily. The nasal spray should only be used in the nose.
Priming: Prime the nasal spray before the first use by spraying 4 times or until a fine mist appears. If not used for 3 days, reprime with 2 sprays.
Avoid spraying in the eyes.
Eye Drop:
Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis: For adults and children 4 years and older, one drop in each eye twice a day, which can be increased to four times a day if needed. If allergen exposure is expected, it should be used before exposure.
Non-Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis: For adults and children 12 years and older, one drop in each eye twice a day, which can be increased to four times a day if needed.
The treatment should not exceed 6 weeks. If symptoms worsen or do not improve after 48 hours, consult a doctor.
Interaction
It is important to avoid using Azelastine nasal spray with alcohol, CNS depressants, Cimetidine, or Ketoconazole.
Contraindications
It should not be used by patients who are allergic to Azelastine or any of its components.
Side Effects
Common side effects include headache, dizziness, sneezing, nosebleeds, nausea, stinging or itching in the nose, dry mouth, sore throat, and bitter taste.
Pregnancy & Lactation
The effects during pregnancy are not fully studied. It should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks to the baby. It is not known whether Azelastine passes into breast milk, so it should be used with caution in nursing mothers.
Precautions & Warnings
Some patients may feel drowsy when using Azelastine nasal spray. Be careful when driving or using heavy machinery. It should not be used with alcohol or other CNS depressants, as it can cause additional sleepiness or impair performance.
Overdose Effects
N/A
Therapeutic Class
Nasal Anti-histamine preparations.
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool, dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.