What is the brand name for Azelastine?
The brand name for Azelastine is Astelin.
PTCE Top 200 · #142
Azelastine
Astelin
Azelastine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Astelin. It is an antihistamine (intranasal) used to treat allergic rhinitis. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Azelastine ranks #142 and is one of the most frequently tested respiratory/allergy medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Azelastine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Astelin |
| Drug class | Antihistamine (intranasal) |
| Class group | Respiratory/Allergy |
| Common use | allergic rhinitis |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Azelastine used for?
Treatment of seasonal/perennial allergic rhinitis (nasal antihistamine); may also be used for allergic conjunctivitis depending on formulation.
What drug class is Azelastine?
Azelastine is an Antihistamine (intranasal) in the Respiratory/Allergy group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Azelastine
- arrow_rightBitter taste
- arrow_rightSomnolence
- arrow_rightNasal irritation
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightEpistaxis
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAlcohol/CNS depressants → increased drowsiness (esp. oral)
- arrow_rightOther sedating antihistamines → additive sedation
Is Azelastine a controlled substance?
No. Azelastine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Azelastine (PTCE mnemonic)
AST-elin tastes ASTringent — azelastine intranasal H1 for allergic rhinitis. BITTER aftertaste ('Aze' = acerbic), drowsiness; tilt head forward to avoid throat-drip.
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PTCE exam tip
An antihistamine as a NASAL spray — bitter taste and some drowsiness are the counseling points, and azelastine pairs with fluticasone in Dymista.
Azelastine FAQ
What is Azelastine used for?
Azelastine is used to treat allergic rhinitis. Treatment of seasonal/perennial allergic rhinitis (nasal antihistamine); may also be used for allergic conjunctivitis depending on formulation.
What drug class is Azelastine?
Azelastine is an Antihistamine (intranasal) (Respiratory/Allergy group).
Is Azelastine a controlled substance?
No. Azelastine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Respiratory/Allergy group
Drill Azelastine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).