Azelastine Ophthalmic Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.

Applies to azelastine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Other side effects

Some side effects of azelastine ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• bitter taste in mouth
• headaches
• temporary eye burning or stinging

Less common side effects

• burning, dry or itching eyes
• blurred vision, temporary
• chills
• diarrhea
• eye discharge or excessive tearing
• fever
• general feeling of discomfort or illness
• hoarseness or other voice changes
• itching skin
• joint pain
• loss of appetite
• muscle aches and pains
• nausea
• redness, pain, swelling of eye, eyelid, or inner lining of eyelid
• runny nose
• shivering
• sneezing
• sore throat
• stuffy nose
• sweating
• tender, swollen glands in neck
• trouble in swallowing
• trouble sleeping
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, azelastine ophthalmic may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking azelastine ophthalmic:

Less common side effects

• cough
• difficulty breathing
• noisy breathing
• shortness of breath
• tightness in chest
• wheezing

For healthcare professionals

Applies to azelastine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

General adverse events

The most common side effect reported was eye irritation such as burning/stinging.^[Ref]

Ocular

• Very common (10% or more): Burning/stinging (up to 30%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Irritation, conjunctivitis, pain
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Temporary blurring^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Asthma, dyspnea, pharyngitis, rhinitis^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Pruritus^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): fatigue^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Common (1% to 10%): Pruritus
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Rash^[Ref]

Immunologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Influenza-like symptoms^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Very common (10% or more): Headaches (15%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Bitter taste^[Ref]

Further information

Azelastine ophthalmic side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer