Rhinolast Nasal Spray

Rhinolast nasal spray is an antihistamine treatment used to treat nasal symptoms caused by allergies, such as hay fever. It provides direct relief for a blocked, itchy or runny nose.

It is available on prescription and is available with a consultation through our online doctor services.

The same active ingredient is available as eye drops known as Optilast. It is effective if you experience itchy or watery eyes due to allergies.

What is Rhinolast used for?

Rhinolast is an antihistamine nasal spray suitable for a condition called allergic rhinitis. This is the medical term for nasal symptoms caused by an allergy.

This is most commonly caused by hay fever when pollen levels are high. Some people may experience symptoms when they come into contact with indoor elements such as dust, mould or pet fur.

Rhinolast has some unique benefits as a hay fever treatment.

• Spray application directly targets nasal symptoms.
• Works within 30-60 minutes.
• Lasts for up to 12 hours.

It means you get instant relief and you won’t have to worry about symptoms throughout the day.

Rhinolast contains the active ingredient azelastine. This is a type of medicine known as an antihistamine.

These medicines work by blocking the chemical histamine. This chemical is released by your immune system when it detects an allergen like pollen, mould, dust or pet dander and causes allergy symptoms

Rhinolast stops histamine production in the sinuses in your nose by blocking histamine receptors. This effectively treats and prevents nasal congestion.

You will need to use Rhinolast twice daily. You should apply one spray into each nostril once in the morning and once in the evening.

Here are the instructions on how to use Rhinolast nasal spray:

1. Blow your nose first.
2. Remove the protective cap.
3. Before the first use, press the pump several times until you get an even spray.
4. When you’re ready to use it, spray it once into each nostril. Ensure your head is upright - do not tilt it backwards.
5. Wipe the pump nozzle and replace the protective cap.

If you use more Rhinolast than you’re supposed to, you are unlikely to experience any side effects. However, contact your doctor if you are concerned.

Avoid spraying Rhinolast in your eyes as it can cause irritation. If you accidentally get it into your eyes, bathe them with plenty of water. ab

For more information on how to use Rhinolast, please consult the patient information leaflet or ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Rhinolast should work within 30-60 minutes.

If your symptoms haven’t improved after 60 minutes, you should consult your doctor for alternative treatment options.

As well as taking treatment, several natural hay fever remedies can help with symptoms. These include:

• checking the pollen count before you go out - you can check this online through the Met Office
• applying petroleum jelly (vaseline) under your nose to catch pollen before it can enter your nostril
• wearing wraparound sunglasses to prevent pollen from getting into your eyes
• showering and changing your clothes as soon as you come in from outdoors
• vacuuming or dusting regularly to remove any pollen from outside
• keeping windows and doors shut when indoors
• not letting pets into the house - pollen can stick to their fur and cause symptoms

You can also use other allergy medications whilst using Rhinolast to help relieve symptoms. This includes oral antihistamines like Fexofenadine (Telfast), Desloratadine or Levocetirizine.

Changes to your diet can also help prevent hay fever symptoms. Some foods contain naturally high levels of histamines, the chemical that causes allergy symptoms. A low histamine diet involves avoiding foods such as certain vegetables, fermented foods or cured meats.

Like all medicines, Rhinolast may cause some side effects.

The most common side effect of Rhinolast is an unpleasant taste in your mouth. This occurs after using the spray, especially if you tilt your head back. However, this should go away shortly after applying.

In uncommon cases, you may experience nose bleeds or nose irritation.

Rarely, you may experience an allergic reaction to Rhinolast. If this is the case, you may experience a rash or hives. Consult your doctor if you experience an allergic reaction while using Rhinolast.

For a full list of side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

Rhinolast is well-tolerated by most people. You should always ask your doctor if you have any medical conditions before using Rhinolast.

Do not use Rhinolast if you have previously had an allergic reaction to azelastine (the active ingredient) or any of the other ingredients listed.

Rhinolast should be safe to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. However, always ask your doctor or midwife before using it to make sure.

Ask your doctor before using Rhinolast if you take any of the following:

• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• betahistine (for Ménière’s disease)

These medicines may interact with each other which can cause side effects or affect your treatment.

Always consult your doctor before starting a new treatment if you take any other medicines.

As well as Rhinolast, several nasal sprays for hay fever are available.

	Rhinolast	Mometasone	Avamys	Ryaltris
Ingredient	Azelastine	Mometasone furoate	Fluticasone propionate	Mometasone/ olopatadine
Class of medicine	Antihistamine	Corticosteroid	Corticosteroid	Corticosteroid/ antihistamine
Treats	Moderate hay fever and indoor allergies	Moderate hay fever, indoor allergies and nasal polyps.	Moderate hay fever and indoor allergies	Moderate to severe hay fever and indoor allergies
Dosage	One spray into each nostril	Two sprays into each nostril - can be reduced or increased as needed	Two sprays into each nostril - can be reduced or increased as needed	Two sprays into each nostril
Availability	Prescription-only	Over-the-counter and on prescription	Prescription-only	Prescription-only

No, Rhinolast is only available on prescription and is prescribed if your doctor believes it’s safe for you to take.

You can be safely prescribed it online without having to see a GP face-to-face at HealthExpress.

You can buy Rhinolast Nasal Spray online from HealthExpress for hay fever treatment.

You will be required to complete an online consultation form. Our doctors will review your consultation to ensure the medicine is safe for you to take.

If approved for treatment, your medication will be dispensed and delivered to your chosen address.