#astepro

I tried it this morning bc I’m at a work location where I routinely go through 2 or more pocket packs of Kleenex in a day, and often have to duck out to my car for eye drops.

When I snorted it, it tasted WRETCHED, which is kinda to be expected with these sorts of things. And would’ve been worth it, if it ever WENT AWAY. An hour later my mouth still tasted awful. Two and a half hours (and counting) later, I still can’t drink anything without it tasting foul (eating is fine).

It works, but I’m only going to do it in the future as a last resort, because this is Downright Unpleasant

Brand Name: Astelin, Astepro

Generic Available

Common Dosage Forms:

Nasal Spray (Astelin): 0.1% azelastine. Each spray delivers 137 mcg azelastine HCL.

Nasal Spray (Astepro): 0.15% azelastine. Each spray delivers 205.5 mcg of azelastine HCL.

FDA Indications/Dosages:

For the treatment of the symptoms of nonallergic vasomotor rhinitis and seasonal allergic rhinitis such as rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal pruritus in adults and children 12 years and older: The recommended dose is two sprays per nostril twice daily. After assembly prime the pump by spraying 4 times. No additional priming is necessary unless more than 3 days lapse between doses.

Pharmacology/Pharmacokinetics: Azelastine is a histamine H1-receptor antagonist that blocks histamine release in peripheral tissues. Systemic bioavailability after intranasal administration is approximately 40%. Cmax occurs in 2-3 hours. Elimination half-life is 22 hours. Azelastine is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system to an active metabolite, desmethylazelastine.

Drug Interactions: Other CNS depressants may increase drowsiness. Cimetidine may increase effects.

Contraindications/Precautions: Contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any of its components. May cause drowsiness, use cautions when performing activities that require alertness. Pregnancy Category C.

Adverse Effects: Bitter taste in mouth (20%), headache (14%), drowsiness (12%), nasal burning (4%), pharyngitis (4%), dry mouth, sneezing, nausea (3%), rhinitis, fatigue, dizziness, nosebleed, and weight increase (2%).

Patient Consultation:

May cause drowsiness. Use care when operating machinery or when mental alertness is required.

Carefully read the enclosed patient information sheet before using.

Store units upright in a cool place away from sunlight and children. Keep the pump unit tightly closed. Unit need to be primed with 4 sprays upon assembly and with 2 sprays if not used for 3 days.