Treatment of rhinitis - Corticosteroids and cromolyn sodium

Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common chronic health conditions in ch ildren and adults and is responsible for considerable direct and indirect h ealth care costs. Fortunately, there are effective medications to treat the condition. Cromolyn sodium and intranasal corticosteroids are effective in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, although the corticosteroids are more effective and convenient to use. Corticosteroids may be helpful in some pat ients with nonallergic rhinitis. Adverse reactions to these medications are infrequent and usually local; however, the potential for a slowed growth r ate in children who use intranasal corticosteroids must be investigated fur ther. The pathophysiology of allergic and nonallergic rhinitis is presented as a basis for the effectiveness of these medications.