Pharm

Rhinitis Medicamentosa

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Rhinitis Medicamentosa

  • Pathophysiology
  1. Associated with topical agent use >5-7 days
  2. Tachyphylaxis associated with medications
    1. Nasal Decongestants (Afrin, Neo-Synephrine)
    2. Nasal spray preservative Benzalkonium chloride
  3. Other associated medications
    1. Reserpine
    2. Oral Contraceptive pills
    3. Inderal
    4. Aldomet
  • Symptoms
  1. Rebound nasal Congestion after nasal Decongestant
  • Signs
  1. Fiery red edema at nasal mucosa
  • Management
  1. Intranasal Steroid (e.g. Vancenase)
  2. Withdrawal of nasal Decongestant
  • Prevention
  1. Avoid prolonged use of nasal Decongestants
  • Reference
  1. Graf (1997) J Allergy 52(40 suppl): 28-34 [PubMed]