Azelastine
Mechanism :
It competes with histamine for H1 receptor sites on effector cells in the blood vessels and respiratory tract; reduces hyperactivity of the airways; increases the motility of bronchial epithelial cilia, improving mucociliary transport.
Indication :
- Seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis.
- Allergic conjunctivitis.
Contraindications :
Hypersensitivity to Azelastine or any component.
Dosing :
Perennial allergic rhinitis, Seasonal allergic rhinitis: Intranasal:
Infants <6 months: Safety and efficacy not established
Infants ≥6 months and Children <6 years: (0.1% solution) 1 spray per nostril twice daily. In seasonal allergic rhinitis, advisable after 2 years of age.
Children 6 to <12 years: (0.1% or 0.15% solution) 1 spray per nostril twice daily
Children ≥12 years and Adolescents: (0.15% solution) 2 sprays per nostril twice daily.
Vasomotor rhinitis:
Children ≥12 years and Adolescents: (0.15% solution) 2 sprays per nostril twice daily.
Allergic Conjunctivitis (Ophthalmic solution):
<3 years: Safety and efficacy not established.
Children >3 years: Instill 1 drop into each affected eye twice daily.
Adverse Effect :
Flushing, hypertension, tachycardia, drowsiness, headache, somnolence, fatigue, vertigo, depression, nervousness, hypoesthesia, contact dermatitis, eczema, hair follicle infection, furunculosis, weight gain, nausea, xerostomia, bitter taste, glossitis, ulcerative stomatitis, aphthous stomatitis, constipation, abdominal pain, urinary frequency, hematuria, myalgia, hyperkinesia, eye pain, transient eye burning and itching, coughing and throat pain.
Interaction :
It may cause additive sedation when administered with other CNS depressant medications.
It may enhance adverse/toxic effects of other anticholinergics, cimetidine may increase serum levels/toxicity.
Hepatic Dose :
No dosage adjustments are recommended.