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Evidence-based strategies for treatment of allergic rhinitis

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Abstract

In this review, an evidence-based medicine approach to diagnosis and treatment for allergic rhinitis is reviewed. We performed a search of the medical literature for randomized, placebo-controlled trials of nonsedating antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, montelukast, azelastine, allergen immunotherapy, and anti-IgE. The mean numbers needed to treat were: nonsedating antihistamines—15.2; nasal corticosteroids—4.4; montelukast—14.3; azelastine—5.0; allergen immunotherapy—4.6; and anti-IgE—12.4. Treatment thresholds for use were: antihistamines—23%; nasal corticosteroids —8%; azelastine—16%; montelukast—8%; anti-IgE—50%; and immunotherapy—25%. When used appropriately, this information could become very useful for clinicians, particularly if cost, convenience, and other indirect factors can be included.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Section of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, Children’s Mercy Hospital, 2401 Gillham Road, 64108, Kansas City, MO, USA

    Jay M. Portnoy MD, Tom Van Osdol MD & P. Brock Williams PhD

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  1. Jay M. Portnoy MD
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  2. Tom Van Osdol MD
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  3. P. Brock Williams PhD
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Portnoy, J.M., Van Osdol, T. & Williams, P.B. Evidence-based strategies for treatment of allergic rhinitis. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 4, 439–446 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-004-0009-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-004-0009-1

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