Allergic Rhinitis: Focus on the Intranasal Route of Fluticasone Furoate

Abstract

Fluticasone furoate is a new synthetic steroid structurally related to fluticasone propionate but with a higher affinity for the glucocorticoid receptor. It demonstrates high local efficacy and low systemic availability thus producing maximal efficacy with minimal side effects. Intranasal steroids are recommended first line treatment for allergic rhinitis in both adults and children over 2 years. The safety profile of fluticasone furoate has been evaluated in terms of its plasma concentrations, HPA axis, growth in children and bone metabolism and ocular side effects with no major side effects although further studies are warranted. The potential advantages are the new device which has been developed for delivery which is patient preferred, faster onset of action and a consistent improvement on the ocular symptoms of allergic rhinitis.