How do nasal sprays help with allergies. What are the different types of allergy nasal sprays. Which nasal sprays are available over the counter and which require a prescription. What are the potential side effects of using nasal sprays for allergies. How long does it take for nasal sprays to provide relief from allergy symptoms.

Understanding Nasal Sprays for Allergy Management

Nasal sprays have become an increasingly popular and effective method for managing allergy symptoms. These localized treatments offer quick relief and can be more efficient than oral medications in many cases. With various types available, it’s essential to understand how each works to choose the most suitable option for your specific allergy needs.

Allergy nasal sprays target the source of discomfort directly, providing rapid relief from symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. Their effectiveness lies in their ability to deliver medication straight to the affected nasal passages, allowing for faster absorption and more focused treatment.

Why Choose Nasal Sprays Over Other Allergy Medications?

• Quicker onset of action compared to oral medications
• Targeted relief for nasal symptoms
• Lower risk of systemic side effects
• Convenient and easy to use
• Various options available for different allergy needs

Are nasal sprays suitable for everyone? While nasal sprays are generally safe and effective for most people, individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications should consult with their healthcare provider before using them. This is particularly important for people with glaucoma, high blood pressure, or a history of nasal septum perforation.

Decongestant Nasal Sprays: Quick Relief for Congestion

Decongestant nasal sprays are designed to provide rapid relief from nasal congestion by shrinking swollen blood vessels and tissues in the nasal passages. These over-the-counter options can offer immediate comfort for those struggling with a stuffy nose due to allergies.

Common Decongestant Nasal Sprays

• Oxymetazoline hydrochloride (Afrin, Dristan, Sinex)
• Phenylephrine hydrochloride (Neo-Synephrine)

How long can you safely use decongestant nasal sprays? It’s crucial to limit the use of decongestant nasal sprays to no more than three consecutive days. Extended use can lead to rebound congestion, where the nasal passages become more congested than before treatment began.

Are there any precautions when using decongestant sprays? Individuals with glaucoma or uncontrolled high blood pressure should consult their doctor before using these sprays, as they may exacerbate these conditions.

Antihistamine Nasal Sprays: Combating Multiple Allergy Symptoms

Antihistamine nasal sprays offer a multi-pronged approach to allergy relief, addressing congestion, itching, runny nose, and sneezing. These prescription medications provide comprehensive symptom management with potentially fewer side effects than their oral counterparts.

Prescription Antihistamine Nasal Sprays

• Azelastine (Astelin, Astepro)
• Olopatadine (Patanase)

Do antihistamine nasal sprays cause drowsiness? While these sprays generally cause less drowsiness than oral antihistamines, some individuals may still experience sleepiness. It’s advisable to use caution when first starting these medications, particularly when operating machinery or driving.

How quickly do antihistamine nasal sprays work? Many users report feeling relief within hours of their first dose, making these sprays an excellent option for those seeking rapid symptom alleviation.

Steroid Nasal Sprays: Long-Term Allergy Management

Steroid nasal sprays, also known as corticosteroid nasal sprays, are often considered the gold standard for long-term allergy management. These sprays work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, effectively alleviating congestion, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes.

Prescription Steroid Nasal Sprays

• Beclomethasone (Beconase, Qnasl)
• Ciclesonide (Zetonna)
• Fluticasone furoate (Veramyst)
• Mometasone (Nasonex)

Over-the-Counter Steroid Nasal Sprays

• Budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy)
• Fluticasone (Flonase Allergy Relief)
• Triamcinolone (Nasacort Allergy 24HR)

How long does it take for steroid nasal sprays to work? Unlike decongestant or antihistamine sprays, steroid nasal sprays may take up to a week before users notice significant improvement in their symptoms. Consistent use is key to achieving optimal results.

What are the potential side effects of steroid nasal sprays? Common side effects may include headache, sore throat, nosebleed, or cough. These are generally mild and often subside with continued use. However, if side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

Cromolyn Sodium: A Preventative Approach to Allergy Relief

Cromolyn sodium, available over-the-counter as NasalCrom, offers a unique approach to allergy management by preventing the release of histamines in the body. This preventative action can help reduce the occurrence of allergy symptoms before they start.

Key Features of Cromolyn Sodium

• Prevents histamine release
• Can provide relief in as little as 30 minutes
• Most effective when started before allergy season
• Requires consistent daily use for optimal results

Is cromolyn sodium as effective as steroid nasal sprays? While cromolyn sodium can be very effective for some individuals, it generally isn’t considered as potent as steroid nasal sprays. However, its excellent safety profile makes it a good option for those who cannot use or prefer to avoid steroid-based medications.

Are there any contraindications for using cromolyn sodium? Individuals with wheezing from asthma or sinus pain should consult their doctor before using this medication. Side effects are generally mild and may include sneezing and nasal burning.

Ipratropium Nasal: Targeting Excessive Nasal Discharge

Ipratropium nasal spray, available by prescription as Atrovent Nasal, is designed specifically to address runny noses by reducing mucus production. While it may not be as effective for congestion or sneezing, it can provide significant relief for those struggling with excessive nasal discharge.

Considerations for Ipratropium Nasal Use

• Primarily effective for runny nose symptoms
• May not significantly improve congestion or sneezing
• Requires a prescription
• Not suitable for individuals with glaucoma or enlarged prostate

What are the potential side effects of ipratropium nasal spray? Common side effects may include headache, nosebleeds, sore throat, or nasal irritation. As with any medication, it’s important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.

Choosing the Right Nasal Spray for Your Allergy Needs

Selecting the most appropriate nasal spray for your allergy symptoms depends on various factors, including the severity and frequency of your symptoms, any underlying health conditions, and your personal preferences. Consider the following when making your choice:

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Nasal Spray

• Primary symptoms (congestion, runny nose, sneezing, etc.)
• Desired onset of action (immediate vs. long-term relief)
• Frequency of use (daily vs. as-needed)
• Potential side effects
• Availability (over-the-counter vs. prescription)
• Cost and insurance coverage

Should you consult a healthcare provider before choosing a nasal spray? While many nasal sprays are available over-the-counter, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have chronic allergies or other health conditions. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your medical history and specific needs.

Proper Use and Maintenance of Nasal Sprays

To maximize the effectiveness of nasal sprays and minimize potential side effects, it’s crucial to use them correctly and maintain them properly. Follow these guidelines for optimal results:

Tips for Using Nasal Sprays Effectively

1. Gently blow your nose before use to clear nasal passages
2. Shake the bottle well before each use
3. Tilt your head slightly forward
4. Insert the nozzle into one nostril, aiming towards the outer wall of the nose
5. Breathe in gently through your nose while spraying
6. Repeat for the other nostril if prescribed
7. Avoid blowing your nose immediately after use

How often should you clean your nasal spray device? It’s important to clean the nozzle of your nasal spray device at least once a week to prevent clogging and maintain hygiene. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning techniques.

Can sharing nasal sprays lead to the spread of infections? Sharing nasal spray devices can potentially spread infections. Each person should have their own nasal spray to minimize the risk of contamination.

Combining Nasal Sprays with Other Allergy Treatments

While nasal sprays can be highly effective on their own, some individuals may benefit from combining them with other allergy treatments for comprehensive symptom relief. Consider the following options:

Complementary Allergy Treatments

• Oral antihistamines
• Eye drops for itchy, watery eyes
• Saline nasal rinses
• Allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets)
• Environmental controls (air purifiers, dust mite covers, etc.)

Is it safe to use multiple nasal sprays simultaneously? While it’s generally safe to use different types of nasal sprays together (e.g., a decongestant spray with a steroid spray), it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before combining medications. They can advise on potential interactions and help create an optimal treatment plan.

How can you determine if your current allergy management plan is effective? Keep a symptom diary to track your allergy symptoms and medication use. This information can help you and your healthcare provider assess the effectiveness of your treatment plan and make adjustments as needed.

Nasal sprays offer a powerful and targeted approach to managing allergy symptoms. By understanding the different types available, their benefits, and proper usage, you can make informed decisions about incorporating these treatments into your allergy management plan. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure you’re using the most appropriate nasal spray for your specific needs.

Nasal Sprays for Allergies

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Decongestant Sprays
• Antihistamine Sprays
• Steroid Nasal Sprays
• Cromolyn Sodium (NasalCrom)
• Ipratropium Nasal (Atrovent Nasal)

When allergies strike, nasal sprays can help. There are many different types, and most work faster than pills.

You can buy them at the drugstore, or your doctor can prescribe one to relieve a stuffy or runny nose. 

Decongestant sprays shrink swollen blood vessels and tissues in your nose that cause congestion. Oxymetazoline hydrochloride (Afrin, Dristan, Sinex) and phenylephrine hydrochloride (Neo-Synephrine) are some examples of these medicines. You can buy them over the counter.

Don’t use decongestant nasal sprays longer than three days. Using them longer can actually make your nose more stopped up. Ask your doctor before using them if you have glaucoma or high blood pressure that’s not under control.

Antihistamine sprays relieve congestion, itchy and runny nose, and sneezing. They are available by prescription and include azelastine (Astelin, Astepro) and olopatadine (Patanase). They usually cause less drowsiness than antihistamine pills, but they still may make some people sleepy.

These sprays work very well to reduce congestion, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. They also help stop a drippy nose. They’re often the first drug recommended for allergies, but it takes about a week before you’ll notice your symptoms getting better.

Examples of steroid nasal sprays available by prescription include beclomethasone (Beconase, Qnasl), ciclesonide (Zetonna), fluticasone furoate (Veramyst), and mometasone (Nasonex). Three medications can be purchased over the counter — budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy), fluticasone (Flonase Allergy Relief), and triamcinolone (Nasacort Allergy 24HR).

Side effects can include headache, sore throat, nosebleed, or cough.

This nasal spray prevents your body from releasing histamines, chemicals that cause allergy symptoms like runny nose and sneezing. It can also help a stuffy nose. Some people see results in only 30 minutes. For it to work best, you need to start using it one to two weeks before allergy season starts and then use it one or more times every day. It doesn’t work as well as steroid nasal sprays.

You can buy NasalCrom as a nasal spray at the drugstore.

Cromolyn sodium is safe for most people. Ask your doctor before using it if you have wheezing from asthma or sinus pain. Side effects can include sneezing and nasal burning.

This prescription nasal spray treats a runny nose by stopping the production of mucus. It doesn’t relieve congestion or sneezing very well.

If you have glaucoma or an enlarged prostate, you may not be able to use Atrovent. Side effects can include headache, nosebleeds, sore throat, or nasal irritation.

© 2022 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. View privacy policy and trust info

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Nasal Sprays for Allergies

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Decongestant Sprays
• Antihistamine Sprays
• Steroid Nasal Sprays
• Cromolyn Sodium (NasalCrom)
• Ipratropium Nasal (Atrovent Nasal)

When allergies strike, nasal sprays can help. There are many different types, and most work faster than pills.

You can buy them at the drugstore, or your doctor can prescribe one to relieve a stuffy or runny nose. 

Decongestant sprays shrink swollen blood vessels and tissues in your nose that cause congestion. Oxymetazoline hydrochloride (Afrin, Dristan, Sinex) and phenylephrine hydrochloride (Neo-Synephrine) are some examples of these medicines. You can buy them over the counter.

Don’t use decongestant nasal sprays longer than three days. Using them longer can actually make your nose more stopped up. Ask your doctor before using them if you have glaucoma or high blood pressure that’s not under control.

Antihistamine sprays relieve congestion, itchy and runny nose, and sneezing. They are available by prescription and include azelastine (Astelin, Astepro) and olopatadine (Patanase). They usually cause less drowsiness than antihistamine pills, but they still may make some people sleepy.

These sprays work very well to reduce congestion, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes.  They also help stop a drippy nose. They’re often the first drug recommended for allergies, but it takes about a week before you’ll notice your symptoms getting better.

Examples of steroid nasal sprays available by prescription include beclomethasone (Beconase, Qnasl), ciclesonide (Zetonna), fluticasone furoate (Veramyst), and mometasone (Nasonex). Three medications can be purchased over the counter — budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy), fluticasone (Flonase Allergy Relief), and triamcinolone (Nasacort Allergy 24HR).

Side effects can include headache, sore throat, nosebleed, or cough.

This nasal spray prevents your body from releasing histamines, chemicals that cause allergy symptoms like runny nose and sneezing. It can also help a stuffy nose. Some people see results in only 30 minutes. For it to work best, you need to start using it one to two weeks before allergy season starts and then use it one or more times every day. It doesn’t work as well as steroid nasal sprays.

You can buy NasalCrom as a nasal spray at the drugstore.

Cromolyn sodium is safe for most people. Ask your doctor before using it if you have wheezing from asthma or sinus pain. Side effects can include sneezing and nasal burning.

This prescription nasal spray treats a runny nose by stopping the production of mucus. It doesn’t relieve congestion or sneezing very well.

If you have glaucoma or an enlarged prostate, you may not be able to use Atrovent. Side effects can include headache, nosebleeds, sore throat, or nasal irritation.

© 2022 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. View privacy policy and trust info

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Antiallergic nasal drops and sprays: remedies and drugs for allergic rhinitis

Tizin ^®

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Allergic rhinitis

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Allergy preparations 900 05

06/27/2023

240 607

4 minutes

Co-author, editor and medical expert – Maksimov Alexander Alekseevich.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Contents:

Classification of antihistamines
Combination therapy for allergies

Allergy medicines are an integral component of treatment ^1,2,3 symptoms caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system to a substance 9000 3 3 . The action of such drugs is aimed at eliminating nasal congestion and copious discharge (runny nose), itching, burning ¹ and lacrimation ² .

Modern sprays for allergic rhinitis are characterized by a complex action that allows blocking the production of histamines ⁹ (substances responsible for manifestations of allergies), stop the inflammatory process in the nasal mucosa, regulate the degree of blood supply to the capillaries in it and eliminate one of the most unpleasant manifestations – runny nose, itching and nasal congestion ¹ .

Back to Contents

Classification of antihistamines

• First generation antihistamines are sedatives ² and with a duration of action of less than 6 hours ⁸ , after which the next dose of the drug ² is required. The main disadvantage of the first generation of antihistamines is their ability to become addictive already after 2-3 weeks from the start of use and a side effect in the form of drowsiness ² . This precludes their use in the treatment of allergic reactions (including rhinitis) in children ⁴ . These antihistamines are also contraindicated in people whose occupation does not allow attention disorders ² .
• Second generation – antihistamines that allow you to quite effectively block the production of histamines for 14 hours after administration and do not reduce concentration ² . Like any other antihistamines, they can be addictive, but the completion of the course of treatment (no longer than 10 days) passes without a withdrawal syndrome. The cardiotoxic effect of these drugs (including nasal drops and nasal sprays), which is enhanced when they are taken together with antidepressants and antimycotics, significantly limits the indications for their use. A strict contraindication to the treatment of allergies with second-generation antihistamines are any violations of the cardiovascular system. These preparations are available in various forms, including nasal spray for allergies ⁶ .
• Third generation – drugs that do not have the disadvantages of previous generations, but retain high efficiency in blocking the production of histamines ⁵ . These are active metabolites that do not pose a threat to the heart and blood vessels and are available in various forms – from oral tablets to sprays for allergic rhinitis.

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Combination therapy for allergies

The treatment of allergies, including allergic rhinitis, involves an integrated approach that uses allergic rhinitis sprays in combination with anti-inflammatory nasal drugs (sprays or drops for allergies or allergic rhinitis in the nose), as well as eye drops and glucocorticoids – in depending on doctor’s prescriptions ^{5. 10} .

The decision on the dosage form of the antihistamine and the combination of medicines remains with the doctor and is based on individual characteristics – the severity of reactions, the age of the patient, etc. ⁹ . Particular attention should be paid to the choice of drug complex and allergy spray for the treatment of rhinitis in children ⁴ .

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

See also:

• Allergic rhinitis
• Allergic nasal congestion
• Allergic rhinitis in children

Allergy nasal spray for adults and children from 6 years of age.

Eye drops. Help relieve symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Effective 5 minutes after application. The active substance is levocabastine.

Vasomotor rhinitis as a type of chronic rhinitis. Similarities and differences between allergic and vasomotor rhinitis.

Causes and symptoms with and without runny nose. Nasal congestion in children and pregnant women. Diagnostics. Surgical and conservative method.

First aid for a cold. Non-drug and drug treatment. Application rules.

Nasal saline solution for allergic rhinitis

Relevance

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation (swelling and/or irritation) of the internal tissues of the nose caused by an allergy. This condition is common in both children and adults. Allergic rhinitis can be intermittent (less than four days per week or four weeks per year) or persistent (more than four days per week or four weeks per year). Allergies can be caused by many things, but the most common allergens (substances that cause allergies) are grass or tree pollen, mold, dust mites, or animal dander (tiny bits of skin). People with allergic rhinitis experience symptoms (nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose, and sneezing) that can affect their quality of life.

Nasal saline irrigation (also known as nasal irrigation) is a procedure in which the nasal cavities are washed with saline. It’s not entirely clear how saline works, but it’s believed to thin the mucus, making it easier to evacuate and remove irritating allergens from the nose. Nasal saline irrigation can be done with sprays, pumps, or injections. Salt solution can be isotonic (the same concentration as in the human body – 0.9% NaCl) or hypertonic (more salty than in the human body – more than 0.9% NaCl). Although saline irrigation is considered safe, cases of epistaxis (nosebleeds) and irritation or discomfort in the nose and ears have been reported. This treatment does not require a prescription and can be used alone or in addition to other pharmacological treatments for allergic rhinitis, such as intranasal (inside the nose) steroids and oral antihistamines.

Search date

Evidence is current to November 2017.

Study profile

We found 14 studies involving 747 people (260 adults; 487 children). The volume of saline used varied: five studies used “extremely low” volumes (nasal spray – less than 5 ml per nostril per application), two studies used low volumes (injection – from 5 to 59 ml of saline into each nostril per application). application), and four – large volumes of solutions (more than 60 ml in each nostril for one application). Eight studies used hypertonic saline, five used isotonic saline, and three did not report this. Two studies used two different types of saline solutions.

Research funding sources

Seven studies did not report funding sources. The other seven were funded either from the research department or through research grants from regional and national governments. None of the studies were funded by pharmaceutical companies.

Main results

Brine Irrigation Versus No Brine Irrigation

Nasal saline irrigation may benefit adults and children by alleviating symptoms of allergic rhinitis compared with no saline irrigation; unlikely to be associated with unwanted effects. Within the scope of this review, it is not possible to conclude whether there are differences in the case of different volumes and concentrations of brine.

Adding nasal saline irrigation to “pharmacological” treatment of allergic rhinitis

It remains unclear whether the addition of nasal saline irrigation to pharmacological treatment (intranasal steroids or oral antihistamines) improves the management of allergic rhinitis symptoms than pharmacological treatment alone. Nasal saline irrigation is unlikely to be associated with adverse effects.

Nasal saline irrigation versus “pharmacological” treatment of allergic rhinitis

There is not enough evidence to determine whether nasal saline irrigation is superior to, inferior to, or similar to intranasal steroids. None of the studies reporting the outcomes of interest to us compared nasal saline irrigation with oral antihistamines.

Quality of evidence

Overall quality of evidence comparing nasal saline irrigation versus no nasal irrigation was low (our confidence in the effect estimate is limited: the true effect may differ significantly from this estimate) or very low (very low confidence in the effect estimate: the true effect is likely to differ significantly from this estimate).