The safety of intranasal steroids

Michael S. Benninger, Nadir Ahmad, Bradley F. Marple

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

99 Scopus citations

Abstract

The increasing use of intranasal steroids in the management of allergic rhinitis reflects their efficacy, tolerability, and safety. However, issues related to the safety of intranasal steroids continue to generate debate and confusion among clinicans. Consequently, there is often reluctance and uncertainty in prescribing these effective agents for the treatment of perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis. Issues of particular concern are whether intranasal steroids adversely affect various homeostatic systems, influence growth and bone metabolism, and compromise ocular function. Furthermore, the expanding role of intranasal steroids in the pediatric, geriatric, and postmenopausal populations has raised concerns that these agents may result in a steroid burden that more readily causes adverse effects. An extensive review of the literature overwhelmingly supports the assertion that intranasal steroids are safe in prescribed doses and should allay the misconceptions regarding their appropriate use in the management of allergic rhinitis.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)739-750
Number of pages12
JournalOtolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Volume129
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2003

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Otorhinolaryngology

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