Azelastine

Also indexed as: Astelin®

Azelastine nasal spray is used to treat the symptoms of seasonal allergies of the nose, such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Preliminary studies also show that azelastine might prevent mouth ulceration resulting from cancer chemotherapy.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)

Avoid Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.

Alcohol

Depletion or interference

None known

Side effect reduction/prevention

None known

Supportive interaction

None known

Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability

None known

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Interaction with Food and Other Compounds

Alcohol
Drinking alcoholic beverages while using azelastine may increase side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and poor coordination.1 Therefore, people using azelastine nasal spray should avoid drinking alcohol, especially when they must stay alert.

References

1. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians’ Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 3147–8.