Abstract
IntroductionThe goal of treatment in allergic rhinitis is a complete elimination of symptoms or achieving significant clinical improvement. The role of the pharmacist has been receiving particular attention in terms of the initial diagnosis and treatment of allergic rhinitis patients and their sufficiently early referral to a specialist in case of persistent symptoms.AimThis study attempted to estimate the rates of nasal OTC use in patients diagnosed with allergic rhinitis.Material and methodsStudy population was 18,578 subjects (4,192 patients diagnosed with AR and 14,386 healthy controls): children aged 6–7 years, adolescents aged 13–14 years, and adults aged 20–44 years. We used translated and validated versions of ECRHS and ISAAC questionnaires.ResultsThe rates of nasal decongestant use in the allergic rhinitis group were 60.4% in children, 50.7% in adolescents, and 43.0% in adults, with these figures significantly higher than in the control group (p < 0.05). The most common nasal agent was Oxymetazoline and Xylometazolini hydrochloridum 0.1%.ConclusionsOver a half of the evaluated allergic rhinitis patients used nasal decongestants, which poses a potential risk of uncontrolled side effects. There is an urgent need to introduce patient education on medical treatment.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
