Ipratropium Bromide Nasal Spray Relieves Rhinorrhea and Nasal Congestion in Allergic Rhinitis Patients

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common inflammatory condition characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal itching, which significantly impact quality of life. Management includes allergen avoidance, pharmacological therapy, and, in severe cases, immunotherapy. Ipratropium bromide, an anticholinergic agent, is primarily used for managing rhinorrhea by inhibiting acetylcholine-mediated secretion in the nasal mucosa.
To evaluate the effects and side effects of ipratropium bromide nasal spray in combination with low-dose budesonide in patients with allergic rhinitis, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 126 patients diagnosed with AR. Participants were randomly assigned to receive one of three treatments: Ipranasal 42 μg + budesonide, Ipranasal 21 μg + budesonide, or placebo + budesonide, over a two-week period. Symptom severity was assessed using the ARIA questionnaire and visual analog scale (VAS) for nasal symptoms at baseline and two weeks after the intervention.
Significant reductions in rhinorrhea were observed in the Ipranasal groups compared to the placebo group. Mild side effects, including nasal and oral dryness, were transient and non-significant. There were no major differences between the 42 μg and 21 μg groups in terms of efficacy or side effects.
Ipratropium bromide nasal spray effectively reduces rhinorrhea in AR patients, with good tolerability. However, it also had moderate effects on nasal congestion. Combination therapy may enhance symptom control, but further studies are needed to assess long-term efficacy and safety.