What medications are used to treat allergic rhinitis?
May 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Bing
Introduction
Nasal sprays include corticosteroid nasal sprays and other nasal preparations—for example, commonly used intranasal corticosteroids such as Rhinocort (budesonide), Flixonase (fluticasone propionate), and Nasonex (mometasone furoate), as well as azelastine nasal spray. Nasal sprays generally require long-term use. In contrast, oral medications typically take effect more rapidly; commonly used options include Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Singulair (montelukast) may also be employed. These oral agents generally have relatively mild side effects.
If allergic rhinitis cannot be fully resolved through self-management alone, pharmacological treatment becomes necessary. What medications are available for treating allergic rhinitis?
Medications for Treating Allergic Rhinitis
Nasal sprays include corticosteroid sprays and other nasal preparations. Commonly used intranasal corticosteroids include Rhinocort (budesonide), Flixonase (fluticasone propionate), and Nasonex (mometasone furoate). Azelastine is another nasal spray option. Nasal sprays typically require long-term use. Oral antihistamines—such as Claritin (loratadine) and Cetirizine—generally take effect more rapidly, but may cause drowsiness as a side effect; thus, drivers should avoid taking them. Montelukast (Singulair) is also an option, with relatively fewer side effects, though it may not be effective for all patients. Nasal saline irrigation can help flush out inhaled allergens from the nasal passages and serves as a useful adjunctive therapy. Decongestant nasal sprays (e.g., oxymetazoline) may be used occasionally to relieve nasal congestion, but they are not considered first-line or primary treatments due to risks of rebound congestion with prolonged use.
Allergic rhinitis—also termed “allergic rhinitis”—is an immunologically mediated inflammatory disorder of the nasal mucosa that may lead to various complications. Another distinct subtype is triggered by non-specific stimuli, without involvement of specific allergens or classic immune mechanisms. Clinically, however, its symptoms closely resemble those of allergic rhinitis; this condition is referred to as vasomotor rhinitis or neurogenic rhinitis. Triggers may be exogenous (e.g., physical or chemical factors) or endogenous (e.g., hormonal fluctuations or psychological stress).
If symptoms of allergic rhinitis develop, prompt pharmacological intervention is recommended. We hope this article has been helpful to you!
