How do different types of nasal sprays work for allergy relief. What are the benefits and potential side effects of decongestant, antihistamine, and steroid nasal sprays. When should you use prescription versus over-the-counter nasal sprays for allergies. How long does it take for various nasal sprays to provide symptom relief.

Understanding the Role of Nasal Sprays in Allergy Management

Nasal sprays have become an indispensable tool in the battle against allergies, offering quick relief and targeted treatment for a variety of symptoms. These medications work directly in the nasal passages, providing faster action compared to oral allergy medications. But with numerous options available, it’s crucial to understand the different types, their mechanisms of action, and when to use each one.

Allergies affect millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and disrupting daily life. Nasal sprays offer a localized approach to managing symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itching. By delivering medication directly to the affected area, they can provide rapid relief while minimizing systemic side effects often associated with oral medications.

Why are nasal sprays often preferred for allergy relief?

Nasal sprays are frequently chosen for allergy management due to their:

• Quick onset of action
• Targeted delivery to affected nasal tissues
• Reduced risk of systemic side effects
• Convenience and ease of use
• Ability to provide long-lasting relief with consistent use

Decongestant Nasal Sprays: Rapid Relief for Nasal Congestion

Decongestant nasal sprays are a popular choice for quick relief from nasal congestion. These over-the-counter medications work by shrinking swollen blood vessels and tissues in the nasal passages, effectively reducing stuffiness and improving breathing.

How do decongestant nasal sprays work?

Decongestant sprays contain active ingredients such as oxymetazoline hydrochloride (found in brands like Afrin, Dristan, and Sinex) or phenylephrine hydrochloride (found in Neo-Synephrine). These compounds act as vasoconstrictors, narrowing blood vessels in the nasal lining and reducing inflammation. This action helps to open up the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing and relief from congestion.

While decongestant sprays can provide rapid relief, it’s crucial to use them as directed. Overuse can lead to a condition known as rebound congestion, where the nasal passages become more congested when the medication wears off, leading to a cycle of dependency.

What are the guidelines for using decongestant nasal sprays safely?

To use decongestant nasal sprays safely:

1. Limit use to no more than three consecutive days
2. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the package
3. Avoid using if you have glaucoma or uncontrolled high blood pressure
4. Consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen
5. Consider alternating with other allergy management strategies for long-term relief

Antihistamine Nasal Sprays: Comprehensive Symptom Relief

Antihistamine nasal sprays offer a multi-faceted approach to allergy relief, addressing a range of symptoms including congestion, itching, runny nose, and sneezing. Unlike their oral counterparts, these sprays typically cause less drowsiness while providing targeted relief.

Which antihistamine nasal sprays are available by prescription?

Prescription antihistamine nasal sprays include:

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

These medications work by blocking histamine receptors in the nasal passages, preventing the allergic response that leads to symptoms.

Antihistamine nasal sprays are particularly effective for individuals who experience multiple allergy symptoms or those who find oral antihistamines too sedating. They can provide relief within minutes of application and are often recommended for daily use during allergy seasons.

How do antihistamine nasal sprays compare to oral antihistamines?

Antihistamine nasal sprays offer several advantages over oral antihistamines:

• Faster onset of action
• Targeted relief to nasal tissues
• Reduced risk of systemic side effects
• Less likelihood of causing drowsiness
• Potential for better control of nasal symptoms

Steroid Nasal Sprays: Long-Term Management of Allergic Rhinitis

Steroid nasal sprays, also known as corticosteroid nasal sprays, are considered the gold standard for managing allergic rhinitis. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, providing comprehensive relief from allergy symptoms over time.

What are the most commonly prescribed steroid nasal sprays?

Prescription steroid nasal sprays include:

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

In recent years, several steroid nasal sprays have become available over-the-counter, making them more accessible to allergy sufferers. These include:

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

How long does it take for steroid nasal sprays to work?

Steroid nasal sprays are not instant-relief medications. They typically take about a week of consistent use before noticeable improvement in symptoms occurs. For optimal effectiveness, it’s recommended to start using these sprays 1-2 weeks before the allergy season begins and to continue use throughout the season.

While steroid nasal sprays are highly effective, they may cause side effects such as headaches, sore throat, nosebleeds, or cough in some individuals. It’s important to use these medications as directed and to consult with a healthcare provider if side effects persist or worsen.

Cromolyn Sodium: A Preventive Approach to Allergy Management

Cromolyn sodium, available over-the-counter as NasalCrom, offers a unique approach to allergy management. Unlike other nasal sprays that primarily focus on symptom relief, cromolyn sodium works by preventing the release of histamines and other allergy-causing chemicals in the body.

How does cromolyn sodium differ from other nasal sprays?

Cromolyn sodium:

• Acts as a mast cell stabilizer, preventing the release of allergy-causing chemicals
• Can provide relief within 30 minutes for some users
• Is most effective when used preventively, starting 1-2 weeks before allergy season
• Requires consistent daily use for optimal results
• Has a favorable safety profile, with minimal side effects

While cromolyn sodium can be effective for many allergy sufferers, it may not work as well as steroid nasal sprays for severe symptoms. However, its safety profile makes it an attractive option for long-term use, particularly for individuals who prefer to avoid steroids or have concerns about other medication interactions.

Ipratropium Nasal: Targeting Runny Nose Symptoms

Ipratropium nasal spray, available by prescription as Atrovent Nasal, is specifically designed to address excessive nasal secretions. This medication is particularly useful for individuals whose primary allergy symptom is a persistent runny nose.

When is ipratropium nasal spray recommended?

Ipratropium nasal spray is often prescribed:

• For allergic rhinitis patients with predominant runny nose symptoms
• In cases where other nasal sprays have not adequately controlled nasal secretions
• As part of a combination therapy approach with other allergy medications

It’s important to note that while ipratropium is effective at reducing nasal secretions, it may not provide significant relief for congestion or sneezing. Patients with glaucoma or an enlarged prostate should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication, as it may exacerbate these conditions.

Choosing the Right Nasal Spray: Factors to Consider

Selecting the most appropriate nasal spray for allergy relief depends on various factors, including the specific symptoms experienced, the severity of allergies, and individual health considerations. Understanding these factors can help allergy sufferers make informed decisions about their treatment options.

How do you determine which nasal spray is best for your allergy symptoms?

Consider the following when choosing a nasal spray:

1. Predominant symptoms (e.g., congestion, runny nose, sneezing)
2. Severity and frequency of allergy attacks
3. Speed of relief needed
4. Potential side effects and drug interactions
5. Cost and availability (prescription vs. over-the-counter)
6. Personal health history and existing medical conditions
7. Preference for preventive vs. as-needed treatment

Consulting with a healthcare provider or allergist can provide valuable guidance in selecting the most appropriate nasal spray for individual needs. They can take into account medical history, perform allergy testing if necessary, and recommend a comprehensive allergy management plan that may include nasal sprays alongside other treatments.

Proper Usage and Safety Considerations for Nasal Sprays

To maximize the effectiveness of nasal sprays and minimize potential side effects, it’s crucial to use them correctly and be aware of safety considerations. Proper technique and adherence to usage guidelines can significantly impact the success of allergy treatment with nasal sprays.

What are the best practices for using nasal sprays effectively?

Follow these steps for optimal nasal spray use:

1. Gently blow your nose to clear the nasal passages
2. Shake the bottle well before use
3. Tilt your head slightly forward
4. Hold the spray bottle upright and insert the tip into one nostril
5. Point the tip toward the outer wall of the nostril
6. Squeeze the bottle while breathing in gently through your nose
7. Repeat for the other nostril if prescribed
8. Avoid blowing your nose immediately after use

It’s important to clean the nasal spray bottle regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent contamination and ensure proper functioning. Additionally, never share nasal spray bottles with others to avoid spreading infections.

Are there any long-term risks associated with nasal spray use?

While nasal sprays are generally safe when used as directed, potential long-term risks include:

• Rebound congestion (with decongestant sprays)
• Nasal irritation or dryness
• Rare cases of nasal septum perforation (with steroid sprays)
• Potential effects on eye pressure or bone density with long-term steroid use

Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor for any adverse effects and ensure that the chosen nasal spray remains the most appropriate treatment option over time. They may recommend periodic “drug holidays” or alternative treatments to minimize long-term risks while maintaining effective allergy control.

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

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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).