Arzep

Arzep Nasal Spray (Azelastine) is an intranasal antihistamine which alleviates hay fever and other forms of nasal allergies by acting on histamine receptors in the nasal membranes. The active component in this medicine is classified as a histamine H1 receptor antagonist and is said to be derived from phthalazinone. Medical studies have shown that it works just as well as orally administered medicines or topical corticosteroids. In addition to blocking histamine activity, it can also affect the action of other chemicals which contribute to allergic reactions (such as platelet activating factor and leukotrienes).

The accumulation of white blood cells known as eosinophils at the sight of the allergy is also prevented, and this is a significant factor as these cells are a component of the immune system said to be active in the allergic response. After administration, it goes to work quickly and is metabolized into its primary active metabolite (referred to as desmethylazelastine). The antihistaminic action helps to relieved pruritis of the nose, watering of the eyes and sneezing. Patients may also experience a substantial reduction in sniffling or a runny nose. A clinical study examined its effects in patients with vasomotor rhinitis and it was shown to relieve post nasal drip, congestion and other symptoms.

Arzep Nasal Spray (Azelastine) comes in a bottle which is equipped with a special nozzle so as to facilitate the spraying of the solution into the nose. The strength is 0.1 per cent and each measured spray administers 0.14ml of the medicine. Your physician will inform you of the required dosage frequency as well as the proper usage instructions. Adults are sometimes asked to deliver one spray into both nostrils 2 times each day (however this could differ slightly depending on your physician`s opinion).

Before use, ensure that the protective cap on the bottle is taken off. After this, you may shake it. A test spray may be needed before the first use, so as to prime it. To administer the medicine, press your finger on the outside of the nose so as to block one nostril. The nozzle of the bottle should then be inserted into the other nostril and the spray administered (you should also breathe in at the same time). This procedure can then be repeated for the other nostril. Remember to clean the nozzle of the pump after use.

Intranasal use of Arzep Nasal Spray (Azelastine) has been associated with some side effects, including:

• Nosebleeds
• Weight gain
• Nasal soreness
• Drowsy feeling or vertigo
• An bitter or abnormal taste

It is vital that your physician is kept up to date on your condition. This includes the reporting of any side effects which occur, no matter how mild.

The occurrence of side effects that require hospitalization or emergency care is considered to be less common. Examples of reactions which will necessitate cessation of treatment and immediate medical treatment include bronchospasms, passing urine which is bloody, soreness in the eyes and other reactions that have not been referenced in this paragraph.

The contents of Arzep Nasal Spray (Azelastine) cannot be administered orally. Also, patients must take special care when administering it (or while priming the pump spray) to ensure that the solution is not sprayed into the eyes by mistake.

Somnolence can occur with antihistamines, and patients are advised to note that the ability to perform tasks which require a high degree of mental alertness and concentration (such as driving) are likely to be impaired after use.