Dymista Nasal Spray (Azelastine HCl/Fluticasone Propionate)

What is this medication for?

Dymista Nasal Spray is used to relieve symptoms of allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis and rhino-conjunctivitis. These symptoms may include runny and/or a blocked nose, a post-nasal drip, and itching and/or sneezing.

Dymista Nasal Spray contains 2 active substances: 

• Azelastine hydrochloride is an antihistamine which prevents the effects of histamine produced by the body due to an allergic reaction. This reduces allergy symptoms.
•  Fluticasone propionate is a corticosteroid which helps to reduce inflammation. 

How should I take or use this medication?

Directions for use
Preparing the spray   Shake the bottle gently for 5 seconds by tilting it upwards and downwards, then remove the protective cap. If this is the first time the nasal spray is being used or the nasal spray has not been used for more than 7 days, you will need to prime it.
To prime, hold the bottle upright with 2 fingers on either side of the spray pump and place your thumb on the bottom of the bottle as seen in the picture. Press down and release the pump 6 times until a fine mist appears. Now your spray is primed and ready for use.
Using the spray  Blow your nose to clear your nostrils
Keep your head tilted downwards, do not tilt it backwards.
Hold the bottle upright and carefully insert the spray tip into one nostril.  Point the end of the nozzle towards the outside wall of your nose, away from the centre ridge of your nose to help direct the medicine to the correct part of the nose.  Close the other nostril with your finger. Note:  Do not spray towards the centre of the nose, to prevent the content from flowing down the throat. Incorrect administration may increase the risk of an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Breathe in slowly through your nose.  At the same time, press down on the device to release the spray.
Breathe out through your mouth.  Repeat Steps 1-3 for the other nostril.
After each use, wipe the spray tip with a clean tissue or cloth and replace the protective cap.

Avoid spraying directly into your nasal septum (centre of the nose), eyes, or mouth. If there is accidental contact with your eyes; flush them with water for at least 10 minutes.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to administer a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then administer your next dose at the usual time. Do not administer two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
• You are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• You had a recent injury or surgery on your nose.  
• You have any infection(s) in your nose including frequent or occasional nose bleeds
   

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

Some common side effects include:

• Irritated nose such as mild stinging, itching or sneezing
• Nosebleed
• Headache
• Bitter taste in your mouth. This can be due to an incorrect method of administration (e.g. if you tilt your head backwards when you are using the nasal spray); the bitter taste can last up to 30 minutes.
• Unpleasant smell 
   

In very rare cases, some patients might experience the following: 

• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Blurred vision, eye pain or feeling of increased pressure behind your eyes
• Injury to the skin and mucous membrane in the nose
• Feeling sick, weary, exhausted or weak 

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.
 

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 
Do not refrigerate, do not freeze.
Discard 6 months after opening.

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.