Comparative Study of Topical Treatment in Allergic Rhinitis Using Azelastine and Fluticasone in a Combination Verses Fluticasone Propionate Alone

Abstract

Background: Amongst the common problems faced globally, Allergic Rhinitis (AR) is very distressing at times. This is an inflammatory response to either known or unknown allergen. The symptomatic relief in AR using topical steroid Fluticasone propionate and antihistaminic Azelastine Hydrochloride in a combination has been studied. Very few studies showing comparison between these two drugs in a combination and steroid alone are available in the literature. Aim and Objectives: To study the effectiveness of topical treatment using corticosteroid Fluticasone propionate and antihistaminic in a combination versus Fluticasone propionate alone in patients of AR. Material and Methods: The cases presented with symptoms of allergic rhinitis were randomized in two groups at start of treatment. All cases of Group I were treated with Fluticasone propionate whereas of Group II with Fluticasone propionate and Azelastine hydrochloride combination. In each group, the individual symptom scores were recorded pre-treatment and post-treatment at the end of four weeks with the help of symptom evaluation scale. Based on these individual symptom scores, the Total Symptom Score (TSS) was calculated. The effectiveness of group specific drugs was evaluated by comparing individual and TSS. Results: After four weeks, both TSS and individual symptom score were reduced in either group (p<0.05). Further, Group II specific drug was found more effective than Group-I in relieving symptoms of AR. Conclusion: TSS decreased by an average of 84.14% in Group-I (i.e. treated with Fluticasone propionate) and by 91.16% in Group–II (i.e. treated with Fluticasone propionate and Azelastine hydrochloride I in a combination).

Keywords

• Azelastine hydrochloride
• Fluticasone propionate
• Total Symptom Score