What medications are used to treat nasal polyps?

Polyps are a common type of abnormal tissue growth and represent a pathological condition that can occur in numerous tissues and organs throughout the body. Nasal polyps, in particular, have been increasing in prevalence in modern society. This condition is primarily triggered by chronic inflammation. So, what medications are used to treat nasal polyps? Below is an overview.

Medications for Treating Nasal Polyps

Because nasal polyp development is associated with multiple factors and recurrence is common, current clinical practice generally advocates comprehensive management. The main pharmacological treatments for nasal polyps include:

1. Glucocorticoids: Topical glucocorticoids are recommended for patients with newly diagnosed small polyps, those undergoing pre- or postoperative management, or those with prominent allergic (hypersensitivity) components. Intranasal corticosteroid sprays—such as budesonide or fluticasone—are commonly prescribed. These agents help reduce polyp size, delay regrowth, and alleviate other nasal symptoms caused by polyps.

For larger polyps, systemic glucocorticoids may be required—for example, prednisolone at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg daily for 5–10 days—combined with continued intranasal corticosteroid therapy. This approach is colloquially termed “medical polypectomy.”

2. Macrolide antibiotics: Oral macrolides—such as extended-release clarithromycin—administered over several weeks to months may reduce polyp size. This effect appears linked to decreased interleukin-8 levels in nasal secretions. However, for patients whose nasal polyps fail to respond adequately to medical therapy, surgical intervention remains the primary treatment option.

The above provides an overview of pharmacological treatments for nasal polyps. We hope this information is helpful to you.