Allergic Rhinits Flashcards
What is the first line treatment for allergic rhinitis
INCS
What is the second line treatment for allergic rhinitis
Oral anti-histamine (2nd gen)
When should someone consider medication after treating AR non-pharmacolgically
After 2-4 weeks of self-treatment
What do all antihistamines block?
Block H1 receptors
*which is the main target for early phase allergic response
Why are 1st generation oral antihistamines not preferred in the treatment of AR
- They are sedating
*anticholinergic (ANTI-DUMBBELLS) - Added effects are not useful in treating AR and contribute to more SE
Why are 2nd generation oral antihistamines preferred in the treatment of AR
- Inhibit release of mast cell mediators, minimal to no effect on cholinergic receptors (less sedating)
- Fewer SE
When should you take a 2nd gen oral antihistamine for AR
At least 1 week prior to expected allergy exposure
What are the SE of oral antihistamines
CNS depression
1. Impaired driving
2. In coordination
3. Impaired information processing
4. Sedation
ANTI-DUMBBELLS
*common with 1st generation AH
What is the least sedating 1st gen AH
Chlorpheniramine
*but still more sedating than 2nd gen AH
What 2nd gen AH may cause mild sedation
- Cetirizine
- Levocetirizine
What are the CI of 1 gen Antihistamines
- New born
- Breastfeeding
- Narrow angle / angle closure glaucoma
What are the warnings of 1st gen and 2nd gen oral antihistamines
- Combination with other sedating medication or tranquilizers
- Elderly (fall risk with sedation)
- Prostate enlargement (BPH)
- Fexofenadine with fruit juice
Which drugs can cause paradoxical excitiation
Oral antihistamine
*in children and elderly
What is the indication for Azelastine
Intranasal antihistamine
1. Temporary relief of nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing and itchy nose
How many sprays to use of Azelastine (Intranasal antihistamine)
12 and + = 2 sprays in each nostril or 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril every 12 hours
6 to 11 = 1 spray each nostril every 12 hours
What are the SE of Azelastine
- Bitter tastes, headache, sedation
- Avoid taking with alcohol or other sedatives
What is the role of Azelastine in the treatment of AR
- Fewer side effects compared to oral AH
- Fast acting
- May be used if oral AH are ineffective or in combination with INCS
What is the indication of Intranasal corticosteroids (INCS)
- Treatment of nasal allergy symptoms