As-needed use of fluticasone propionate nasal spray reduces symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis

Background: The daily use of intranasal corticosteroids is approved for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis, Objective: Our objective was to test the effectiveness of as-needed use of intranasal corticosteroids in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Methods: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, parallel-group stu dy of the as-needed usage of fluticasone propionate nasal spray in the mana gement of seasonal allergic rhinitis was performed. Outcome measures were s ymptom score, Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ), and the number of eosinophils and the level of eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) in nas al lavage. Results: Twenty-six subjects in each group completed the 4-week study. The median symptom score over the duration of the study In the placebo group wa s 8.5 versus 4.5 in the active group. The active group had significant impr ovement on the interim visit in the sleep, non-nose/eye, activities, nasal, practical, and overall domains (P < .05) of the RQLQ and on the final visi t in the nasal symptom domain. The number of eosinophils was significantly lower in the active than in the placebo group at the final visit. Changes i n ECP were not significant. Conclusion: As-needed fluticasone propionate nasal spray is efficacious in the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis.