Sympathomimetics in Nasal Allergy

Abstract

The effect of a topically administered α-adrenoceptor agonist (phenylpropanolamine) after allergen challenge was evaluated in a placebo-controlled double-blind crossover study in 10 subjects with allergic rhinitis in an asymptomatic period. The nasal airway resistance was objectively measured by anterior rhinomanometry after nasal allergen challenge. The degree of nasal blockage, secretion and the number of sneezes were registered in a score. Nasal airway resistance and the degree of blockage were found to be significantly reduced. Thus, α-adrenoceptor agonists might be used topically for symptomatic treatment of allergic rhinitis comprising mucosal congestion.

Pharmacological influence of antiallergic medication on in vivo allergen testing

“…However, a-agonists are widely used for the treatment of inflammatory oedema in the upper airways and conjunctiva, regardless of the pathogenesis (5,6,8). The effect of these drugs is mainly an increase in vascular tone.…”