Rhinolast is a nasal spray based on antihistamine azelastine developed and marketed by Meda pharmaceutical company. Usually, this treatment is administered twice daily, for as long as the doctor advised you to use it. The exact duration of use will depend on numerous factors, most notably the nature, severity and persistence of your symptoms.

What’s on this page?

As an easy to use nasal spray, Rhinolast is an ideal alternative for people who dislike pills and tablets. In addition to this, the duration of its effects is exceptionally long for a nasal spray, lasting for as much as 12 hours. With this in mind, the commonly prescribed dose will keep you safe from hay fever around the clock.

What is allergic rhinitis?

Allergic rhinitis, better known as hay fever is an inflammation that results from overactive response of the immune system to the presence of different allergens such as pollen (most commonly) or dust mites. With this in mind, we can say that hay fever isn’t just one specific condition, but more of a collection of symptoms caused by an allergic reaction to different triggers. The characteristic signs and symptoms are familiar to most of us – runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing. As this condition is caused by different types of pollen or other common allergens in different people, the term hay fever might be somewhat misleading, since hay and grass aren’t the only known triggers nor is the symptom always caused by same triggers. For most of those affected, hay fever symptoms will peak in intensity during certain periods of the year, most often during spring, when it’s flowering season for a large number of plant species and consequently, when the concentration of pollen in the air is at its highest.

Hay fever is a surprisingly common condition with more than 10 million people affected by this condition each year within the United Kingdom alone. At this moment, there is no consensus in the scientific community regarding the causes of this condition, although the leading hypothesis states that genetic and hereditary factors and exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke during early childhood can contribute to the later development of hay fever.

However, if we focus on the symptoms and their bio-chemical basis, it’s possible to state that this condition is considered to be the result of a strong reaction of the immune system to the presence of specific allergens. Consequentially, the organism will act in order to try and protect the body from the perceived threat in only way it can – by releasing histamine and increasing blood flow within the affected area. While this is a very successful way of combating infections, it is not desired in the case of allergic rhinitis as it will fail to produce any results except for the unpleasant symptoms, not the least because there is no infection at the first place. As the allergens most commonly enter the body through nose, eyes and mouth, these body parts will be the most affected and where characteristic inflammation and swelling will manifest.

How does Rhinolast help with hay fever?

At the core of Rhinolast’s efficiency and high success rates is its active ingredient, antihistamine azelastine. This pharmaceutical compound provides fast and durable relief by inhibiting the effects of histamine on specialized receptors which will produce inflammatory response if they come into contact with this substance. By blocking this bio-chemical reaction, Rhinolast reduces the symptoms of hay fever, allowing you to enjoy the warmer months of the year without worrying about your allergy.

How is Rhinolast used?

To ensure optimal results of this allergic rhinitis treatment while at the same time reducint the risks of possible side effects to the minimum, it is vital to precisely instructions provided to you by your doctor or pharmacist exactly. For any additional information you might need, you can take a look at the official patient information leaflet which is provided within every box of Rhinolast.

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

  • Always take as prescribed
  • The usual dose is one spray into each nostril two times per day, 12 hours apart
  • Before use, blow your nose to remove any obstructions
  • Take of the cap and spray a couple of shots until fine mist starts being produced
  • Place the nozzle into your nostril, cover your other nostril with a finger and without tilting your head backwards, press down on the pump
  • Repeat the process for the other nostril
  • Wipe the nozzle clean and replace the cap
  • Don’t take more than your recommended dose as it will not increase the desired effects
  • If you miss a dose, make up for it when you remember – unless the next dose is due
  • Never take double dose to make up for the missed one

Are there any Rhinolast side effects?

As with most prescription medicine, it is important to be aware that some adverse effects are possible. While many of them are relatively harmless, others may require you to seek immediate medical attention. Similarly to many other medicines, the most dangerous side effect that can occur is an allergic reaction. This is why it’s very important to contact your doctor immediately and ask for advice regarding further course of action if you notice worsening of your symptoms after using Rhinolast.

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 less) Unpleasant taste in the mouth, especially if head is tilted during administration
Uncommon (1 in 100 patients or less) Slight irritation of the nose, sneezing, nosebleed
Rare (1 in 1000 patients or less) Hypersensitivity

 

Can I use Rhinolast? Are there any contraindications?

The reason why some medicines can be obtained only with a prescription issued by a certified medical professional is the fact that not everyone can use them safely. The same is true for Rhinolast nasal spray – there are some situations when this medicine will not be recommended. One of those situations is the use of another medication that might interact with Rhinolast, the other common one being a pre-existing medical condition. During the consultations with your doctor, be sure to disclose any relevant info regarding these topics.

In addition, this medicine might not be suitable for women who are pregnant or are currently breastfeeding, so be sure to consult with your doctor about the safety of the treatment beforehand.