Dymista is one of the most successful combination treatments that is efficiently used to alleviate the symptoms of hay fever and allergic rhinitis. Available in the form of nasal spray and developed and marketed by Meda pharmaceutical company, Dymista relies on two active components – a corticosteroid fluticasone propionate and an antihistamine agent azelastine hydrochloride.

What’s on this page?

This branded prescription medicine is exceptionally successful at relieving the usual symptoms of hay fever. The nasal spray that is usually administered twice per day acts on the inflammatory processes directly, thus ensuring quick and efficient relief.

Hay fever in the UK – General background

Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever is a type of inflammation that occurs once the immune system overreacts to different allergens present in the air. As such, hay fever isn’t just one condition, but an array of symptoms caused by an allergic reaction to a number of different triggers. The usual tell-tale signs include runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing. Since it can be caused by different types of pollen as well as animal fur and other common allergens, the term hay fever might be somewhat misleading, since hay and grass aren’t the only known triggers. Usually, hay fever symptoms peak in intensity during certain periods of the year, most often in spring, during the flowering season for most plant species, when the concentration of pollen in the air is at its highest.

Just within the UK, more than 10 million people are affected by this condition each year. As of now, there is no definite answer to the causes of this condition, although there are some indications that genetic and hereditary factors as well as exposure to certain irritants during early childhood can play a vital role in the later development of hay fever.

On bio-chemical and physiological levels, this condition is the product of severe reaction of the immune system to allergens. This results in the release of naturally occurring substance histamine which can in turn cause swelling and inflammation of the nasal passages.

Hay fever treatment

For many, preventive practices such as staying indoors during the periods when pollen presence in the air is especially pronounced are enough to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms if they are present. However, there are many situations when exposure to allergens just can’t be avoided. This is when the treatment is usually recommended.

How does Dymista help with hay fever?

Dymista is a unique hay fever treatment because it contains not one, but two active ingredients which aim to address the symptoms of allergic rhinitis in two significantly different ways. This prescription medicine relies on antihistamine azelastine hydrochloride similar to Desloratadine and a corticosteroid fluticasone propionate. Although different, they work in tandem in order to counter the effects of the allergic reaction.

Azelastine affects the possibility of histamine released by the immune system reaching the relevant receptors which will in turn trigger the symptoms. At the same time, fluticasone affects the cells which store and release histamine in a way that decreases the likelihood of them actually releasing histamine. An additional upside of Dymista is the fact that it is a nasal spray and as such, it works directly in the nasal passages, reaching the “root” of the symptoms quickly and providing almost immediate relief.

How to use Dymista?

In order to ensure maximum efficiency of the treatment while also decreasing the risks of possible side effects, it is essential to precisely follow instructions provided to you by your doctor or pharmacist. In addition, you can rely on the official patient information leaflet which is provided within every box of Dymista for any additional questions you might have.

Some most general guidelines for the use of this medicine include:

  • Always follow the instructions provided
  • Usually, this medicine is used by spraying one dose into each nostril in the morning and repeating the process in the evening
  • The duration of the treatment will be determined by your doctor or pharmacist and will depend on the severity and nature of your symptoms
  • To use the nasal spray, first shake the bottle thoroughly and then take of the cap
  • Prepare the pump before use by spraying into the air until light mist begins being consistently produced
  • This process will need to be repeated only if you haven’t used the medicine for longer than seven days since it was originally prepared
  • Prior to using the spray, blow your nose to ensure that any possible congestion is removed
  • Tilt your head slightly forwards and insert the device into first nostril
  • Hold your finger over the other nostril to close it
  • Release a shot of the medicine, while lightly inhaling
  • Breathe out through your mouth
  • Repeat the process for the second nostril
  • When done administering your does, wipe the tip of the device clean and replace the cap
  • Don’t exceed the prescribed dose
  • If you miss a dose, don’t double up the next one – instead take it when you remember and continue with your treatment as usual

What are Dymista side effects?

As with any medicine, it is important to keep in mind that certain side effects are possible. Some of them can be relatively benign while other may require immediate medical attention. Probably the most dangerous adverse effect that can manifest is an allergic reaction to the medicine. So, if you notice worsening of your symptoms after using Dymista, it is vital to contact your doctor immediately.

Other documented side effects can be classified according to the frequency of their occurrence in a following manner:

Frequency of occurrence Side effects
Common (1 in 10 patients or more) Nosebleed, bitter taste in the mouth, headache, unpleasant smell of the medicine
Uncommon (1 in 100 patients or less) Mild stinging or itching in the nose, sneezing, irritation of the mouth and throat, cough
Rare (1 in 1000 patients or less) Dry mouth

 

 

Dymista contraindications

Just like other prescription medicine, Dymista won’t be recommended to anyone – there are some cases when the doctor might advise against using this medicine because of possible interactions with other medicines, an underlying medical condition or some other reason.

When it comes to unwanted drug interactions, Dymista is relatively safe, although it has been shown to interact with ritonavir and ketoconazole. In a similar manner, doctor might advise against using Dymista if:

  • You had a recent nose operation
  • You have tuberculosis or an untreated lung infection
  • You have increased ocular pressure, glaucoma or cataracts
  • You have deficient adrenal function
  • You have severe liver disease

It is also advisable to consult your doctor prior to using this medicine if you are pregnant or are currently breastfeeding.