How To Use Dymista

Complete Step‑by‑Step Usage Guide, Dosage Instructions & Safety Information

Key Takeaways: How To Use Dymista

  • Correct technique: Shake gently, prime if new or unused >7 days, head tilted down, sniff gently while spraying.
  • Dosage: One spray into each nostril, morning and evening (twice daily).
  • Do not tilt head back after use – this avoids bitter taste and medicine running down the throat.
  • Not for children under 12 years.
  • Avoid contact with eyes. If spray gets into eyes, rinse with water.
  • Regular use is essential for full benefit; do not stop without asking your doctor.

Dymista Nasal Spray combines an antihistamine and a corticosteroid to relieve hay fever and year‑round allergies. Using it correctly ensures you get the full therapeutic effect and minimises side effects like a bitter taste or nasal irritation.

Important Medical Advice

If you experience swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing after using Dymista, stop and seek emergency help – these could be signs of a severe allergic reaction. Long‑term high‑dose use may rarely cause adrenal suppression; consult your doctor if you notice unusual tiredness, weight loss, or dizziness.

How To Use Dymista: Step‑by‑Step Usage Guide

Follow these instructions carefully to ensure each dose reaches the right place and works effectively.

Preparing the spray (first use or after 7+ days)

  1. Shake gently for 5 seconds by tilting the bottle upwards and downwards.
  2. Remove the protective cap.
  3. Prime the pump: Hold the bottle with two fingers on the shoulders and your thumb on the bottom. Press down and release 6 times until a fine mist appears. (If the spray hasn’t been used for more than 7 days, prime once.)

Daily use – one spray each nostril, twice a day

  1. Shake gently for 5 seconds and remove the cap.
  2. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils.
  3. Tilt your head forward (towards your toes). Do not tilt your head back.
  4. Insert the tip into one nostril, keeping the bottle upright.
  5. Close the other nostril with your finger.
  6. Press down once firmly and at the same time sniff gently through your nose.
  7. Breathe out through your mouth.
  8. Repeat in the other nostril.
  9. Do not tilt your head back after spraying – this stops the medicine going into your throat and causing an unpleasant taste.
  10. Wipe the spray tip with a clean tissue and replace the protective cap.

If the nozzle becomes blocked, do not prick it – clean the actuator with warm water.

🗒️ Patient tip: Sniffing gently (not hard) helps the spray coat the inside of your nose rather than going straight down the throat.

Dymista Dosage Guide (Adults & Adolescents)

The recommended dose is based on the patient information leaflet and clinical guidelines.

Age groupDoseMaximum frequency
Adults and adolescents (12 years and over)One spray into each nostrilMorning and evening (twice daily)
Children under 12 yearsNot recommended (safety not established)

Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed to control symptoms. If symptoms are not well controlled after a few days, speak to your doctor.

What if I miss a dose?

Use it as soon as you remember, then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not use a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.

What if I use too much?

Accidentally using a few extra sprays is unlikely to cause harm. However, if you have used high doses for a long time, or if a child accidentally drinks the medicine, contact your doctor or local hospital immediately.

Who Should Use Dymista?

Dymista is prescribed for people with moderate‑to‑severe allergic rhinitis (hay fever or year‑round allergies) when a single antihistamine or corticosteroid nasal spray does not provide sufficient relief.

Indications

  • Seasonal allergic rhinitis: caused by pollen (grass, tree, weed).
  • Perennial allergic rhinitis: caused by house dust mites, pet dander, moulds.
  • People whose symptoms include sneezing, itchy/runny nose, and nasal blockage.

Your doctor may recommend Dymista if you have tried separate sprays and still experience symptoms, or if you prefer the convenience of a combined spray.

Who Should NOT Use Dymista?

Do not use Dymista in the following situations. Always discuss your full medical history with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Allergy: If you are allergic to azelastine, fluticasone propionate, or any other ingredient (e.g. benzalkonium chloride).
  • Recent nasal surgery or injury: Wait until healing is complete.
  • Untreated nasal infections: Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections should be treated first.
  • Tuberculosis (active or quiescent).
  • Severe liver disease: May increase systemic exposure.
  • Adrenal insufficiency: Caution required, especially when switching from oral steroids.
  • Glaucoma or cataracts: Monitor closely if you have a history of increased eye pressure.
  • Children under 12 years: Not recommended.

Warnings

If you have any nasal discomfort, sores, or repeated nosebleeds, tell your doctor. Long‑term high doses may affect growth in children/adolescents, but this is much less likely with nasal sprays than with oral steroids.

Should You Take Dymista With Food or Without Food?

Dymista is a nasal spray, not a tablet, so food does not affect its absorption. You can use it at any time, with or without food. However, taking it at the same times each day (morning and evening) helps you remember and keeps symptom control steady.

If you accidentally swallow some of the spray (a small amount may run down the throat), a soft drink or water can help remove the bitter taste. There is no need to take it with food.

Special Conditions: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Other Considerations

Pregnancy

There is limited data on the use of Dymista in pregnant women. Azelastine and fluticasone are not known to cause harm, but as a precaution, use it only if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether the components pass into breast milk. Because systemic absorption is very low, the risk to a breastfed infant is likely negligible. However, always seek medical advice before using Dymista while breastfeeding.

Liver or kidney impairment

There are no specific data in patients with renal or hepatic impairment. However, because fluticasone is extensively metabolised in the liver, people with severe liver disease may have higher systemic levels – use with caution and under medical supervision.

Driving and using machines

Dymista has minor influence. Very rarely, some people feel tired or dizzy. If affected, do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol may worsen these effects.

Dymista Usage FAQs

Rinse your eyes immediately with plenty of water. If irritation persists, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

If you need another nasal spray (e.g. a decongestant), use it at a different time of day, or wait at least 15 minutes between sprays. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Use it for as long as you have allergy symptoms – often throughout the pollen season or continuously for perennial allergies. Your doctor will review your treatment regularly.

Keep your head tilted forward after spraying and sniff gently. If taste occurs, a soft drink (e.g. orange juice) can help clear it quickly.

You can stop when your allergy season ends. If you have been using it for a long time, stopping suddenly is unlikely to cause problems, but your symptoms may return. Always follow your doctor's advice.

Need Help With Hay Fever?

If you’re unsure whether Dymista is right for you, or if you need a prescription, speak to a UK‑registered doctor online.

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Nabeel M. - Medical Content Manager at Chemist Doctor
Authored byNabeel M.

Medical Content Manager

Nabeel is a co‑founder and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure information is accurate and up‑to‑date.

Medical Doctor

Dr. Feroz is a GMC‑registered doctor and a medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He oversees acute condition and urgent care guidance.

Usman Mir - Superintendent Pharmacist
Approved byUsman Mir

Medical Director

Usman is a co‑founder and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.

Review Date: 16 February 2026

Next Review: 16 August 2026

Published on: 16 February 2026

Last Updated: 16 February 2026