Nasal medications (nose sprays) for allergies are available in a few different classes.
Nasal medications for allergies available in Canada include:
- non-prescription
- decongestants
- oxymetazoline (Dristan®, and others)
- xylometazoline (Balminil Nasal Decongestant®, Otrivin®, and others)
- corticosteroids
- fluticasone propionate (Flonase® and others)
- triamcinolone acetonide (Nasacort AQ®, Nasacort Allergy 24 HR®)
- decongestants
- prescription
- anticholinergics
- ipratropium (Atrovent Nasal Spray®)
- antihistamines
- levocabastine (Livostin Nasal Spray®)
- corticosteroids
- beclomethasone (Gen-Beclo AQ® and others)
- budesonide (Rhinocort Aqua® and others)
- ciclesonide (Omnaris®)
- fluticasone furoate (Avamys®)
- mometasone (Nasonex®)
- anticholinergics
Nasal decongestants provide temporary relief from congestion. However, they should not be used for more than 3 to 7 days because nasal congestion can return or get worse once you stop the medication. Since allergic rhinitis usually requires long-term treatment, it's best to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which medication is right for you.
Antihistamines help relieve nasal itchiness, sneezing, and runny nose. They work by stopping the action of histamine, which is a substance in your body that causes an allergic response when you are exposed to an allergen. It is used 2 to 4 times a day. Side effects may include nasal irritation, drowsiness, nosebleeds, dry mouth, and headaches.
Anticholinergics are used to relieve a runny nose associated with allergies. They work by blocking the secretion of mucous in the nose. It is used 2 or 3 times a day. Side effects may include headaches, nosebleeds, nasal irritation, dry nose, and sore throat.
Corticosteroids are used to help relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including itching, congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. They work by locally reducing inflammation in the nose that is involved in an allergic reaction. The dosing of corticosteroids is once or twice a day, depending on the medication selected. Side effects of corticosteroids may include burning, stinging, nasal irritation, headaches, nosebleeds, sore throat, changes in taste, and dry mouth.
Each person may respond differently to medications and not everyone experiences the same side effects. If side effects are a concern for you, talk to your doctor about which nasal spray would best suit you.
To use the nasal spray:
- First, gently blow your nose.
- Wash your hands well with soap and water.
- You may need to prime the nasal spray pump first by spraying it a few times into the air until a fine mist appears.
- Keep your head upright or tilted slightly forward.
- Use the "opposite hand to opposite nostril" technique. With your right hand, spray the medication into the left nostril toward the outside of the nose. Remember to breathe in deeply through your nose as you pump the spray.
- Repeat for the other nostril.
- Put the cap back on the nasal spray container.
- Wait a few minutes before blowing your nose.
- For more detailed instructions, see the package insert for your particular medication or check with your doctor or pharmacist.
People with certain medical conditions should not take some of these nasal medications. To ensure you are taking the most appropriate medication, inform your doctor and pharmacist of any other medications you are taking and of any medical conditions you have.
You should follow your doctor's and pharmacist's instructions on using the medication to ensure you get the most benefit from it. If you are taking any of these medications and your allergy symptoms do not go away completely, talk to your doctor.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Allergy-Prevention-and-Treatment