Overview
This 60-week, randomized, double-blind clinical trial evaluated whether adding oxymetazoline (a topical decongestant) to intranasal corticosteroids (INS) could provide greater symptom relief in patients with chronic rhinitis compared to INS alone. All participants had persistent nasal congestion despite prior use of INS and cetirizine.
The Takeaways
- The combination of oxymetazoline and intranasal steroids significantly reduced nasal congestion scores in both chronic and allergic rhinitis patients compared to placebo.
- In patients with allergic rhinitis, symptom improvement was consistently greater in the oxymetazoline group across multiple time points (days 4–42).
- The combination treatment was not associated with rhinitis medicamentosa, even with extended use.
Why It Matters
Chronic rhinitis is notoriously difficult to manage, especially when symptoms persist despite corticosteroid treatment. This study shows that adding oxymetazoline to INS can provide enhanced, lasting relief—without triggering rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa). It offers a safe, effective path forward for patients who otherwise remain symptomatic on standard therapy.
The Link to Allermi
Allermi’s micro-dosed formulations include precisely calibrated, low-dose oxymetazoline alongside intranasal steroids. This study directly supports Allermi’s evidence-based approach: using oxymetazoline in combination—at carefully controlled doses—to enhance effectiveness in patients with chronic or allergic rhinitis. By formulating with the lowest effective dose, Allermi maximizes benefits while minimizing risks like dependency or rebound congestion, especially for long-term use.
For more details, refer to the full study: The effectiveness of oxymetazoline plus intranasal steroid in the treatment of chronic rhinitis: A randomized controlled trial
