A comparative trial of flunisolide and beclomethasone dipropionate in the treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis

Abstract

An open, parallel comparison of flunisolide and beclomethasone dipropionate nasal sprays was described. Sixty patients entered the study of whom 56 completed the full 4 wk therapy. The dosage of flunisolide was 2 actuations (25 .mu.g/actuation) into each nostril twice a day (total 200 .mu.g). The dosage of beclomethasone dipropionate was 1 actuation (50 .mu.g) in each nostril 4 times a day (total 400 .mu.g). Both drugs produced statistically significant improvements compared with admission values in sneezing, stuffiness, runny nose, nose blowing and post-nasal drip. Both drugs significantly decreased the interference by symptoms with routine life and sleep. At the end of the trial both treatment groups showed total or good control of symptoms in the majority of patients. No statistically significant difference was shown between the effects of the 2 drugs. Side-effects did not cause withdrawal from the trial in any patient and were mostly confined to minor headache and nose and throat complaints. In neither treatment group was there any evidence of adrenal suppression or growths of Candida from nasal swabs.