Comparison of ipratropium bromide 0.03% with beclomethasone dipropionate in the treatment of perennial rhinitis in children

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is a common ailment in primary and acute care settings. Diagnosis is clinical, by means of history and physical examination. Referral to an allergist is considered when symptoms are difficult to manage and/or confirmation by means of further testing is desired. Management of allergic rhinitis should not be considered trivial, as multiple secondary effects can present as the course progresses. Several treatment modalities exist but should begin with glucocorticoid nasal sprays and systemic second- or third-generation antihistamines.

A sleep clinician's guide to runny noses: evaluation and management of chronic rhinosinusitis to improve sleep apnea care in adults

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The treatment of obstructive sleep apnea is often impeded by intolerance of positive airway pressure therapy, which is frequently attributed to the inability to breathe through the nose. Providers caring for patients with sleep apnea need a working knowledge of nasal passage disease and available treatments to better manage this common comorbidity.

METHODS

This review examines the literature connecting rhinosinusitis to adverse sleep and sleep apnea outcomes. It explores the different types of nasal and sinus diseases a sleep apnea provider might encounter, focusing on the medications used to treat them and indications for referral to otolaryngology.

RESULTS

Chronic rhinosinusitis can be either allergic or nonallergic. Both types can interfere with sleep and sleep apnea therapy. The successful management of chronic rhinosinusitis can improve positive airway pressure tolerance and adherence. A wide range of over-the-counter and prescription pharmacotherapy is available, with data supporting intranasal over oral treatment. Surgical treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis in obstructive sleep apnea addresses nasal obstruction, often with inferior turbinate reduction and septoplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

Sleep specialists should have a working knowledge of the available options to treat chronic rhinosinusitis. These options are often safe, effective, and readily accessible. Otolaryngologists and allergists/immunologists provide additional treatment options for more complicated patients. Providing treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis should be included as part of comprehensive sleep apnea care.

CITATION

Ali MM, Ellison M, Iweala OI, Spector AR. A sleep clinician's guide to runny noses: evaluation and management of chronic rhinosinusitis to improve sleep apnea care in adults. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(8):1545-1552.

Intranasal Anticholinergics for Treatment of Chronic Rhinitis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Topical intranasal anticholinergics are commonly prescribed for the relief of chronic rhinitis and associated symptoms, warranting thorough assessment of the supporting evidence. The present study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of anticholinergic nasal sprays in the management of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis symptom severity and duration.

METHODS

A search encompassing the Cochrane Library, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Scopus databases was conducted. Primary studies describing rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and/or postnasal drip outcomes in rhinitis patients treated with an anticholinergic spray were included for review.

RESULTS

The search yielded 1,029 unique abstracts, of which 12 studies (n = 2,024) met inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis and 9 (n = 1,920) for meta-analysis. Median follow-up was 4 weeks and ipratropium bromide was the most extensively trialed anticholinergic. Compared to placebo, anticholinergic treatment was demonstrated to significantly reduce rhinorrhea severity scores (standardized mean difference [95% CI] = -0.77 [-1.20, -0.35]; -0.43 [-0.72, -0.13]) and duration (-0.62 [-0.95, -0.30]; -0.29 [-0.47, -0.10]) in allergic and non-allergic rhinitis patients respectively. Benefit was less consistent for nasal congestion, postnasal drip, and sneezing symptoms. Reported adverse effects included nasal mucosa dryness or irritation, epistaxis, headaches, and pharyngitis, though comparison to placebo found significantly greater risk for epistaxis only (risk ratio [95% CI] = 2.19 [1.22, 3.93]).

CONCLUSION

Albeit treating other symptoms with less benefit, anticholinergic nasal sprays appear to be safe and efficacious in reducing rhinorrhea severity and duration in both rhinitis etiologies. This evidence supports their continued use in the treatment of rhinitis-associated rhinorrhea.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1 Laryngoscope, 133:722-731, 2023.

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is a common ailment in primary and acute care settings. Diagnosis is clinical, by means of history and physical examination. Referral to an allergist is considered when symptoms are difficult to manage and/or confirmation by means of further testing is desired. Management of allergic rhinitis should not be considered trivial, as multiple secondary effects can present as the course progresses. Several treatment modalities exist but should begin with glucocorticoid nasal sprays and systemic second- or third-generation antihistamines.

Bencycloquidium bromide nasal spray is effective and safe for persistent allergic rhinitis: a phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of bencycloquidium bromide nasal spray (BCQB) in patients with persistent allergic rhinitis (PAR).

METHODS

We enrolled 720 patients from 15 hospitals across China and randomly assigned them into BCQB group or placebo group (90 μg per nostril qid) to receive a 4-week treatment. Visual analog scale (VAS) for rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal congestion, itching and overall symptoms were recorded by patients every day. Anterior rhinoscopy scoring was completed by doctors on every visit. Adverse events were recorded in detail.

RESULTS

A total of 354 and 351 patients were included in BCQB group and in placebo group. Baseline information was comparable. At the end of the trial, the decrease of VAS for rhinorrhea from baseline was 4.83 ± 2.35 and 2.46 ± 2.34 in BCQB group and placebo group, respectively (P < 0.001). The change ratio from baseline of VAS for rhinorrhea in BCQB group was 72.32%, higher than 31.03% in placebo group (P < 0.001). VAS for other symptoms and overall symptoms also improved significantly in the BCQB group, while no inter-group difference was found in anterior rhinoscopy scoring. The incidence of adverse reaction was similar between the two groups. Most reactions were mild and no severe reactions happened.

CONCLUSION

90 μg BCQB per nostril four times daily is effective and safe in the treatment of rhinorrhea as well as sneezing, nasal congestion and itching for patients with PAR.

RETROSPECTIVELY REGISTERED

ChiCTR2000030924, 2020/3/17.

International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Allergic Rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Critical examination of the quality and validity of available allergic rhinitis (AR) literature is necessary to improve understanding and to appropriately translate this knowledge to clinical care of the AR patient. To evaluate the existing AR literature, international multidisciplinary experts with an interest in AR have produced the International Consensus statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Allergic Rhinitis (ICAR:AR).

METHODS

Using previously described methodology, specific topics were developed relating to AR. Each topic was assigned a literature review, evidence-based review (EBR), or evidence-based review with recommendations (EBRR) format as dictated by available evidence and purpose within the ICAR:AR document. Following iterative reviews of each topic, the ICAR:AR document was synthesized and reviewed by all authors for consensus.

RESULTS

The ICAR:AR document addresses over 100 individual topics related to AR, including diagnosis, pathophysiology, epidemiology, disease burden, risk factors for the development of AR, allergy testing modalities, treatment, and other conditions/comorbidities associated with AR.

CONCLUSION

This critical review of the AR literature has identified several strengths; providers can be confident that treatment decisions are supported by rigorous studies. However, there are also substantial gaps in the AR literature. These knowledge gaps should be viewed as opportunities for improvement, as often the things that we teach and the medicine that we practice are not based on the best quality evidence. This document aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the AR literature to identify areas for future AR research and improved understanding.

Focusing the mechanism of action to dissect the different treatments of respiratory allergy

The treatment of respiratory allergy is based on several drugs with different mechanisms of action, which encompass an effect only on symptoms, limited factors of inflammation or the whole process of inflammation. Dissecting the different treatments by their mechanism of action is relevant for the management of allergic patients. Corticosteroids, administered as nasal sprays in rhinitis or by inhalation devices in asthma, and allergen immunotherapy (AIT) are the most effective treatments for respiratory allergy, achieving the control on inflammation by a number of cellular and molecular mechanisms. What distinguishes corticosteroids from AIT is the duration of clinical outcomes that ends with treatment withdrawal for the former but persists after stopping for AIT, due to its disease-modifying effect.

Advances in pharmacotherapy for the treatment of allergic rhinitis; MP29-02 (a novel formulation of azelastine hydrochloride and fluticasone propionate in an advanced delivery system) fills the gaps

INTRODUCTION

Effective pharmacologic treatment exists for most patients suffering from allergic rhinitis (AR). However, both in clinical trials and in real-life studies, many patients are dissatisfied with treatment. Physicians often use multiple therapies, in an attempt to improve symptom control, often with limited evidence of success. Novel treatment options are needed and must consider unmet medical needs.

AREAS COVERED

This article reviews the clinical data for a new AR treatment. MP29-02 (Dymista®, Meda, Solna, Sweden) contains azelastine hydrochloride (AZE) and fluticasone propionate (FP), in a novel formulation and delivered in an improved device as a single nasal spray. It has shown superior efficacy in AR patients than either commercially available AZE or FP monotherapy for both nasal and ocular symptom relief, regardless of disease severity. MP29-02 also provided more effective and rapid symptom relief than either AZE or FP monotherapy delivered in the MP29-02 formulation and device. However, the effect was less than that observed versus commercial comparators, suggesting the impact of formulation and device on clinical efficacy.

EXPERT OPINION

MP29-02 simplifies AR management, surpassing the efficacy of gold standard treatment, intranasal corticosteroids (INS), for the first time. It is indicated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial allergic rhinitis when monotherapy with either intranasal antihistamine or INS is NOT considered sufficient. Most patients present with moderate/severe disease, with evidence of current or previous treatment insufficiency. MP29-02 should be the treatment of choice for these patients.

Investigational drugs for the treatment of allergic rhinitis

INTRODUCTION

Allergic rhinitis is characterized by paroxysms of sneezing, rhinorrhea and nasal obstruction. Its prevalence is increasing in industrialized countries worldwide and imposes a significant economic burden as a result of reduced school performance, work productivity and medical expenses. Allergic rhinitis impairs the quality of life of those affected, and current treatment regimens are inadequate for those whose symptoms are severe or refractory to standard drug therapies. They mainly include symptom control with intranasal glucocorticoids, oral and intranasal antihistamines.

AREAS COVERED

This article provides a review of the most current literature on research that has focused on improving the efficacy of current treatment regimens and developing new drugs. It also provides the reader with an improved understanding of the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis, including the inflammatory mediators and cell types involved, which has led to novel treatment options that are under investigation. These new drugs aim to alter the immunologic response to allergens in order to achieve greater clinical efficacy.

EXPERT OPINION

It is our opinion that despite developments in new therapies, a multidrug approach is vital for successful treatment of allergic rhinitis. Furthermore, immunotherapy in the form of sublingual immunotherapy is a promising additional therapeutic approach that will potentially make immunotherapy available to a wider selection of eligible patients with allergic rhinitis.

Sleep impairment and daytime sleepiness in patients with allergic rhinitis: the role of congestion and inflammation

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of rhinitis with stress, fatigue, decrease productivity, inflammation, and sleep disordered breathing.

DATA SOURCES

Medical literature obtained from OVID and PubMed searches in February 2013 using the search terms "sleep," "rhinitis," "allergic rhinitis," "somnolence," and "fatigue".

STUDY SELECTIONS

Studies were selected based on the US Preventive Services Task Force levels 1, 2, and 3.

RESULTS

Allergic rhinitis is a disease that severely affects patients' quality of life and is increasing in prevalence worldwide. Nasal congestion is reported as the most common and bothersome symptom; it is often associated with sleep-disordered breathing, a likely cause of sleep impairment in rhinitis-affected individuals. The end result is a reduced quality of life and productivity and an increase in daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and stress. Current treatment modalities include intranasal corticosteroids, which have been found to reduce nasal congestion. Clinical trials on intranasal corticosteroids have provided data on sleep-related end points, and these studies report that the improved nasal congestion is associated with improved quality of life with better sleep and reduced daytime fatigue. Alternate therapies, including montelukast, also decrease nasal congestion and positively influence sleep, but to a lesser extent.

CONCLUSION

This review examines nasal congestion and cytokine changes and the associated sleep impairment in allergic rhinitis patients and the effect on daytime performance. It elaborates the adverse effects of disturbed sleep on quality of life and how therapies directed at reducing nasal congestion can relieve such effects.

Impact of sleep as a specific marker of quality of life in allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common disorder, which represents a considerable burden both on individual patients and society. It is associated with bothersome symptoms, which may impair usual daily activities, sleep quality, and productivity. Associated with impaired sleep, quality of life is significantly impaired in AR patients. AR significantly contributes to sleep-disordered breathing through multiple mechanisms, with the greatest impact mediated through nasal obstruction. Sleep impairment is very common in AR patients and has a significant impact on disease-specific measures of general health and quality of life. The degree of sleep disturbance is directly related to the severity of the disease. Nasal congestion also demonstrates circadian rhythm and positional variability, worsening during nighttime hours and in supine position. Increased sleep disordered events lead to poor sleep with fatigue and daytime somnolence, impaired performance, productivity and social functioning, and an increased risk of associated diseases.

Nonallergic rhinitis, with a focus on vasomotor rhinitis: clinical importance, differential diagnosis, and effective treatment recommendations

The term "rhinitis" denotes nasal inflammation causing a combination of rhinorrhea, sneezing, congestion, nasal itch, and/or postnasal drainage. Allergic rhinitis is the most prevalent and most frequently recognized form of rhinitis. However, nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) is also very common, affecting millions of people. By contrast, NAR is less well understood and less often diagnosed. Nonallergic rhinitis includes a heterogeneous group of conditions, involving various triggers and distinct pathophysiologies. Nonallergic vasomo-tor rhinitis is the most common form of NAR and will be the primary focus of this review. Understanding and recognizing the presence of NAR in a patient is essential for the correct selection of medications and for successful treatment outcomes.

Intranasal steroids in the treatment of allergy-induced rhinorrhea

While nasal congestion has been identified as one of the most bothersome and prevalent symptoms of allergic rhinitis, it is underappreciated that many patients find rhinorrhea also to be bothersome. Rhinorrhea as a symptom of allergic rhinitis virtually never occurs alone; about 97% of patients with allergic rhinitis suffer from at least two symptoms, a finding that underscores the advantage of treating a broad range of symptoms with a single medication. Along with sneezing and nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea is a classic acute symptom of allergic rhinitis; it appears as a late-phase symptom as well. In this review, the characterization and epidemiology of rhinorrhea, the pathophysiology of rhinorrhea in allergic rhinitis, the roles played by mediators in early- and late-phase rhinorrhea, the prevalence and impact of this symptom, and the efficacy and safety of available treatment options are all discussed in context of relevant literature. A review of the clinical studies assessing the efficacy of intranasal corticosteroids (INS) for rhinorrhea is presented. Many clinical studies and several meta-analyses conclusively demonstrate that, in addition to being safe and well-tolerated, INS are more effective than other agents (including oral and intranasal antihistamines) across the spectrum of AR symptoms, including rhinorrhea and nasal congestion.

Nonallergic rhinopathy (formerly known as vasomotor rhinitis)

This review focuses on the poorly understood condition of nonallergic rhinopathy (NAR) at a clinical level, with an eye on current optimal treatment. NAR is the new designation for the conditions formerly referred to as vasomotor rhinitis or nonallergic idiopathic rhinitis. The clinical characteristics and differential diagnosis are provided in detail in this review, and the disease should now be characterized sufficiently for clinical studies.

Management of rhinitis: allergic and non-allergic

RHINITIS IS A GLOBAL PROBLEM AND IS DEFINED AS THE PRESENCE OF AT LEAST ONE OF THE FOLLOWING: congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, nasal itching, and nasal obstruction. The two major classifications are allergic and nonallergic rhinitis (NAR). Allergic rhinitis occurs when an allergen is the trigger for the nasal symptoms. NAR is when obstruction and rhinorrhea occurs in relation to nonallergic, noninfectious triggers such as change in the weather, exposure to caustic odors or cigarette smoke, barometric pressure differences, etc. There is a lack of concomitant allergic disease, determined by negative skin prick test for relevant allergens and/or negative allergen-specific antibody tests. Both are highly prevalent diseases that have a significant economic burden on society and negative impact on patient quality of life. Treatment of allergic rhinitis includes allergen avoidance, antihistamines (oral and intranasal), intranasal corticosteroids, intranasal cromones, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and immunotherapy. Occasional systemic corticosteroids and decongestants (oral and topical) are also used. NAR has 8 major subtypes which includes nonallergic rhinopathy (previously known as vasomotor rhinitis), nonallergic rhinitis with eosinophilia, atrophic rhinitis, senile rhinitis, gustatory rhinitis, drug-induced rhinitis, hormonal-induced rhinitis, and cerebral spinal fluid leak. The mainstay of treatment for NAR are intranasal corticosteroids. Topical antihistamines have also been found to be efficacious. Topical anticholinergics such as ipratropium bromide (0.03%) nasal spray are effective in treating rhinorrhea symptoms. Adjunct therapy includes decongestants and nasal saline. Investigational therapies in the treatment of NAR discussed include capsaicin, silver nitrate, and acupuncture.

Allergic rhinitis: indicators of quality of life

The objective of this review was to present evidence of the relationship between allergic rhinitis and impairment of quality of life. The data sources were original articles, reviews and consensus statements entered into the Medline and LILACS databases between 1997 and 2008. The following search terms were used: 'allergic rhinitis'; 'quality of life'; and 'sleep disorders'. Quality of life is often impaired in patients with allergic rhinitis, due to the classic symptoms of the disease (sneezing, pruritus, rhinorrhea and nasal obstruction). In addition, the pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis often disrupts sleep, leading to fatigue, irritability, memory deficits, daytime sleepiness and depression. The total burden of this disease goes beyond impairment of physical and social functioning. It has also a financial impact, which becomes greater when we consider the evidence that allergic rhinitis is a possible causal factor of comorbidities, such as asthma and sinusitis. Nasal obstruction, the most prominent symptom, is associated with sleep disorders, which can have a profound effect on mental health, learning, behavior and attention. Finally, allergic rhinitis-a chronic condition that affects adults, adolescents and children-is often underdiagnosed or inadequately treated. The deleterious impact that allergic rhinitis-related sleep disorders have on patient capacity to perform activities of daily living is an important component of the morbidity of the disease. With an accurate diagnosis, there are various available treatments that can reduce the burden of allergic rhinitis.

Efficacy and long-term safety of mometasone furoate nasal spray in children with perennial allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Allergic rhinitis (AR) affects up to 40% of children by age 6 years. Perennial AR (PAR) causes sleep disturbance, diminishes concentration in school, impairs psychosocial functioning, and reduces quality of life. This study evaluated efficacy and long-term safety of the intranasal corticosteroid mometasone furoate nasal spray (MFNS) in children with PAR.

METHODS

This study comprised a double-blind, 4-week efficacy and safety period followed by a 6-month, open-label safety period. Primary efficacy variable during the double-blind period was mean change in physician-evaluated total nasal symptom score (TNSS) from baseline to day 15. Other efficacy variables during this phase included subject-evaluated TNSS, individual nasal symptoms, and total symptom score (TSS, nasal and non-nasal symptoms, summed). Physician-evaluated improvement in overall condition of PAR was assessed during the open-label period. Adverse events (AEs) were monitored throughout.

RESULTS

Subjects aged 3-11 years with PAR (n = 381) were randomized to MFNS 100 microg (n = 190) or placebo (n = 191) daily for 4 weeks; 357 subjects continued into the open-label period, receiving MFNS only. Between baseline and day 15, significantly greater mean changes were seen with MFNS-treated patients than placebo in physician-evaluated TNSS (-2.8, -39%, vs. -2.2, -32%; p = 0.02). Statistically significant improvements in MFNS versus placebo were reported for subject-evaluated TNSS, TSS, and individual nasal symptom scores (p < or = 0.03 for all). Improvement continued through the open-label period. Subjects treated with MFNS in both periods experienced a 45% further reduction in TSS in this study phase, while those who switched from placebo to MFNS saw a further 49% decrease. MFNS was well-tolerated in both periods. The most frequently reported treatment-related AEs during the double-blind period for MFNS and placebo, respectively, were epistaxis, seven (4%) and nine (5%); sneezing, five (3%) and seven (4%); headache, six (3%) and five (3%). During the open-label period, the AEs reported most often were epistaxis 37 (10%), headache nine (3%), and rhinitis 12 (3%).

LIMITATIONS

Studies in children present unique challenges because subjects are too young to grasp subjective concepts such as symptom severity, especially as rated on a numbered scale. In addition, the 6-month extension of the placebo-controlled phase used a single agent. It is also possible that subjects' symptoms could have abated independent of mometasone furoate treatment.

CONCLUSION

MFNS 100 microg/day effectively reduces TNSS, TSS (including ocular symptoms), and individual symptoms associated with PAR and is well-tolerated for up to 6 months in children aged 3-11 years with a safety profile similar to placebo.

Congestion and sleep impairment in allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is a prevalent disease in developed nations, and its prevalence has been increasing throughout the world. Nasal congestion is the most common and bothersome symptoms of rhinitis. Congestion is associated with sleep-disordered breathing and is thought to be a key cause of sleep impairment in individuals with rhinitis. The end result is a decrease in quality of life and productivity and an increase in daytime sleepiness. Treatment with intranasal corticosteroids has been shown to reduce nasal congestion. Data on sleep-related end points from clinical trials of intranasal corticosteroids indicate that this reduction is associated with improved sleep, reduced daytime fatigue, and improved quality of life. Other therapies, such as montelukast, also have a positive influence on congestion and sleep. This review examines nasal congestion and the associated sleep impairment of allergic rhinitis patients. It explores the adverse effects of disturbed sleep on quality of life and how these conditions can be reduced by therapies that decrease congestion.

Nonallergic rhinitis, with a focus on vasomotor rhinitis: clinical importance, differential diagnosis, and effective treatment recommendations

The term "rhinitis" denotes nasal inflammation causing a combination of rhinorrhea, sneezing, congestion, nasal itch, and/or postnasal drainage. Allergic rhinitis is the most prevalent and most frequently recognized form of rhinitis. However, nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) is also very common, affecting millions of people. By contrast, NAR is less well understood and less often diagnosed. Nonallergic rhinitis includes a heterogeneous group of conditions, involving various triggers and distinct pathophysiologies. Nonallergic vasomotor rhinitis is the most common form of NAR and will be the primary focus of this review. Understanding and recognizing the presence of NAR in a patient is essential for the correct selection of medications and for successful treatment outcomes.

Use of intranasal corticosteroids in the management of congestion and sleep disturbance in pediatric patients with allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis affects a large number of children and exerts a considerable socioeconomic impact. It is underdiagnosed and inadequately treated, which predisposes children to potentially serious comorbidities. Allergic rhinitis symptoms may create nighttime breathing problems and sleep disturbances and have a negative effect on a child's ability to learn in the classroom. Although antihistamines have shown efficacy in relieving many symptoms, they have little effect on nasal congestion. This article summarizes the advantages of intranasal corticosteroids, including their effectiveness against congestion and excellent safety profile. Intranasal corticosteroids with minimal systemic bioavailability provide topical drug delivery that minimizes the potential for systemic side-effects.

Sleep impairment in allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis

Sleep impairment is a significant problem for patients with inflammatory disorders of the upper respiratory tract, such as allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis. Nasal congestion, one of the most common and bothersome symptoms of these conditions, is associated with sleep-disordered breathing and is thought to be a key cause of sleep impairment. This review examines sleep impairment associated with allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis. It explores the adverse effects of disturbed sleep on patients' quality of life and how these inflammatory nasal conditions can be reduced by therapies that address the underlying problems affecting sleep. Treatment with intranasal corticosteroids has been shown to reduce nasal congestion in inflammatory disorders of the upper respiratory tract. Data on sleep-related end points from clinical trials of intranasal corticosteroids indicate that this reduction is associated with improved sleep, reduced daytime fatigue, and improved quality of life. Further research using measures of sleep as primary end points is warranted, based on the potential of these agents to improve sleep and quality of life in patients with allergic rhinitis, acute rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis. Such trials will help to identify the most effective therapies for sleep impairment in these 3 nasal conditions.

Therapeutic options for reducing sleep impairment in allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis

BACKGROUND

Patients with inflammatory disorders of the upper airways, such as allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis, often have significant sleep disturbances. Poor sleep can lead to fatigue, daytime somnolence, impaired daytime functioning as reflected in lower levels of productivity at work or school, and a reduced quality of life. Although the exact mechanisms by which these inflammatory nasal conditions disturb sleep is not fully understood, congestion appears to be a key factor and is generally the most common and bothersome symptom for patients with these conditions. Successful therapy should improve patients' sleep and well-being without introducing any negative effects on sleep. SCOPE OF LITERATURE SEARCH: Literature searches of Medline, Embase, and abstracts from medical/scientific conferences were conducted for the period of 1995 through mid-2006 for primary and review articles and conference presentations about sleep disturbance related to allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis. These searches also sought to identify articles examining how treatments for those diseases improved sleep and, consequently, patients' quality of life. Surveys of the impact of congestion on patients' quality of life and their sleep also were consulted. Clinical studies were selected for discussion if they were randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled. Limitations of this review include the absence of any direct comparisons of the effectiveness of different drugs on improving sleep and shortcomings in the statistical methods of the patient surveys.

FINDINGS

Intranasal corticosteroids (INSs) are the most effective medication for reducing congestion in patients with inflammatory nasal conditions. There is a growing amount of evidence that a reduction in congestion with INSs is associated with improved sleep, reduced daytime sleepiness, and enhanced patient quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Relief of sleep impairment associated with inflammatory disorders of the nose and sinuses can be addressed with INS therapy.

Montelukast decreased exhaled nitric oxide in children with perennial allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Measurement of exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) is a simple and noninvasive method for assessment of inflammatory airway diseases. eNO is elevated in adolescent patients with perennial allergic rhinitis and related to bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The aim of this study was to investigate whether oral loratadine, montelukast, nasal budesonide or nasal sodium cromoglycate could reduce airway inflammation as indicated by decrease of eNO in children with perennial allergic rhinitis as demonstrated by eNO levels.

METHODS

A randomized and investigator-blinded study was conducted in a hospital-based outpatient clinic. Children with perennial allergic rhinitis were divided into four groups and treated by loratadine, loratadine with nasal sodium cromoglycate, loratadine with oral montelukast, and loratadine with nasal budesonide, respectively. Allergic rhinitis scores, eNO and peak expiratory flow were measured before and 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after treatment.

RESULTS

Results showed that eNO in children with perennial allergic rhinitis was reduced by nasal budesonide and oral montelukast within 2 weeks (24.56 +/- 14.42 vs 18.42 +/- 12.48, P < 0.001, in budesonide group; 27.81 +/- 13.4 vs 19.09 +/- 10.45, P < 0.001, in montelukast group), but not in the loratadine and cromoglycate groups. In contrast, loratadine or sodium cromoglycate also did not decrease eNO levels although they could decrease the symptom scores.

CONCLUSIONS

It was concluded that four common treatment modalities could effectively release symptom scores, but decrease of airway inflammation as determined by decrease of eNO might be only achieved by nasal budesonide and montelukast, but not nasal sodium cromoglycate and loratadine. Children with perennial allergic rhinitis with high eNO levels may require oral montelukast or nasal budesonide treatment to prevent airway hyperresponsiveness.

Allergic rhinitis and its effect on sleep, fatigue, and daytime somnolence

OBJECTIVE

To examine the adverse effects of sleep impairment on the quality of life of patients with the disorder and how these effects can be treated with therapies targeted at the underlying problems that influence sleep.

DATA SOURCES

Medline and Ovid search for sleep and rhinitis.

STUDY SELECTION

All literature on this topic were reviewed, and, if significant, were incorporated into this review.

RESULTS

Intranasal corticosteroids used as treatment for allergic rhinitis have been shown to reduce the nasal congestion characteristic of the disorder. Data on sleep-related end points from clinical trials on intranasal corticosteroids also reveal that the treatment's effectiveness in alleviating nasal congestion leads to better sleep, reduced daytime somnolence, and improved quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Further research, specifically using sleep measurements as primary end points, is needed to definitively show that intranasal corticosteroids reduce nasal congestion, thereby improving sleep and, consequently, quality of life in patients with allergic rhinitis. These future trials will serve to identify the most effective therapies that target the adverse effects of sleep impairment in this disorder.

The importance of rhinitis on sleep, daytime somnolence, productivity and fatigue

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The goal of treatment of allergic rhinitis should include improvement of daytime and nighttime symptoms, sleep, and quality of life. Congestion from allergic rhinitis is associated with decreased learning and productivity at work and school and a reduced quality of life. The release of inflammatory mediators and activation of inflammatory cells results in nasal congestion, causing disrupted sleep and subsequent daytime somnolence.

RECENT FINDINGS

This review presents evidence that allergic rhinitis causes sleep disruption, and discusses the pathophysiology of this process. The medications used to treat allergic rhinitis and their ability to improve sleep in patients with allergic rhinitis are reviewed.

SUMMARY

Some allergic rhinitis medications can be sedating; therefore, it is important to treat allergic rhinitis with medications that improve symptoms while producing few adverse effects. Medications such as the second-generation antihistamines and anticholinergic drugs are well tolerated, but have little effect on congestion. Intranasal corticosteroids reduce congestion, improve sleep and sleep problems, and reduce daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and inflammation. Recently, montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist, has been added to the therapies approved for allergic rhinitis. Montelukast significantly improves both daytime and nighttime symptoms.

Use of 0.06% ipratropium bromide nasal spray in children aged 2 to 5 years with rhinorrhea due to a common cold or allergies

BACKGROUND

Rhinorrhea from common colds or allergies in children is similar to that in adults, yet there are few data on the use of ipratropium bromide nasal spray in children younger than 5 years.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of 0.06% ipratropium bromide nasal spray in 2- to 5-year-old children with rhinorrhea from a common cold or allergies.

METHODS

A total of 230 children (43 with common colds and 187 with allergies) participated in an open-label, multicenter study. Patients with a common cold received ipratropium bromide nasal spray (84 microg per nostril) 3 times daily for 4 days; those with allergies received ipratropium bromide nasal spray (42 microg per nostril) 3 times daily for 14 days.

RESULTS

In the common cold and allergy groups, 91% and 90% of the parents, respectively, found that ipratropium bromide was either "very useful" or "somewhat useful." Furthermore, 67% and 91% of parents in the common cold and allergy groups, respectively, found that administration of a nasal spray was either "extremely easy" or "very easy." Symptom scores were improved from baseline in both groups. The nasal spray was well tolerated and was not associated with serious or systemic anticholinergic adverse effects. Most adverse events were infrequent and mild to moderate, and study discontinuation due to an adverse event occurred in less than 3% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The 0.06% ipratropium bromide nasal spray, 42 or 84 microg per nostril 3 times daily, is easy to administer, safe, and effective for the control of rhinorrhea in children aged 2 to 5 years with a common cold or allergies.

The measurement of health-related quality of life (QOL) in paediatric clinical trials: a systematic review

Background

The goal of much care in chronic childhood illness is to improve quality of life (QOL). However, surveys suggest QOL measures are not routinely included. In addition, there is little consensus about the quality of many QOL measures.

Objectives

To determine the extent to which quality of life (QOL) measures are used in paediatric clinical trials and evaluate the quality of measures used.

Design

Systematic literature review.

Review Methods

Included paediatric trials published in English between 1994 and 2003 involving children and adolescents up to the age of 20 years, and use of a standardised QOL measure. Data Sources included MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMB Reviews, AMED, BNI, PSYCHINFO, the Cochrane library, Internet, and reference lists from review articles.

Results

We identified 18 trials including assessment of QOL (4 Asthma, 4 Rhinitis, 2 Dermatitis, and single studies of Eczema, Cystic fibrosis, Otis media, Amblyopia, Diabetes, Obesity associated with a brain tumour, Idiopathic short stature, and Congenital agranulocytosis). In three trials, parents rated their own QOL but not their child's. Fourteen different QOL measures were used but only two fulfilled our minimal defined criteria for quality.

Conclusions

This review confirms previous reports of limited use of QOL measures in paediatric clinical trials. Our review provides information about availability and quality of measures which will be of especial value to trial developers.

Quality of life in adults and children with allergic rhinitis

Quality of life, when referring to an individual's health, is called health-related quality of life (HRQL). HRQL focuses on patients' perceptions of their disease and measures impairments that have significant impact on the patient. Similar symptoms may vary in their effect on different individuals; the goal of therapy should be to reduce impairments that patients consider important. HRQL can be measured with generic or specific questionnaires. Specific questionnaires may be more sensitive and are much more likely to detect clinically important changes in patients' impairments. Specific questionnaires used to assess HRQL in rhinitis are the Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire, the Adolescent Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire, and the Pediatric Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire. HRQL issues in adult rhinitis patients include fatigue, decrease in energy, general health perception, and social function; impairment of HQRL generally increases with increasing degree of symptoms and severity of disease. In children, HRQL issues include learning impairment, inability to integrate with peers, anxiety, and family dysfunction. Comorbid disorders often associated with rhinitis, including sinusitis, otitis media, and frequent respiratory infections, can further compromise HRQL. Pharmacologic treatments can have both positive and negative effects on HRQL. Agents that have troublesome adverse effects such as sedation can have a negative impact, whereas nonsedating antihistamines and intranasal cortico-steroids can significantly improve HRQL in patients of all ages with rhinitis.

Quality of life in patients with allergic rhinitis

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Reading this article will familiarize the practitioner with ongoing efforts to measure the effects of allergic rhinitis symptoms and its treatments on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients. The reader will learn about instruments used to collect HRQOL data, results of studies showing the burden of illness and the effects of treatments on HRQOL, and efforts to interpret the clinical relevance of changes in HRQOL status.

DATA SOURCES

Information was gleaned from articles listed in MEDLINE regarding HRQOL in allergic rhinitis between 1966 and 2000 (English language only), and from the personal experiences of the authors.

STUDY SELECTION

Questionnaire validation studies and representative controlled trials employing measures to assess the effects of allergic rhinitis symptoms and its treatments on HRQOL are described. RESULTS FROM THIS REVIEW: Allergic rhinitis symptoms can have detrimental effects on the physical, psychologic, and social aspects of patients' lives. Clinical trial data suggest a variety of pharmacologic therapies can significantly improve HRQOL in patients with allergic rhinitis. Validated questionnaires are now available that can easily be used in clinical practice to measure the effects of interventions on HRQOL for individual patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluating the effects of interventions on HRQOL may be particularly important in a non-life-threatening condition such as rhinitis. Health-related quality of life measures can be used to indicate the risk/benefit and the cost/benefit ratios of competing treatment options. Clinicians and policy makers are already using HRQOL data to evaluate results of medical interventions to guide patient management and reimbursement decisions.