Rhinitis medicamentosa: what an otolaryngologist needs to know

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2009 May;266(5):623-5. doi: 10.1007/s00405-008-0896-1. Epub 2008 Dec 19.

Abstract

Rhinitis medicamentosa (RM) is a drug induced non-allergic rhinitis associated with prolonged use of topical nasal decongestants. This review discusses the nasal mucosa microcirculation, basic pharmacology of topical decongestants and the theories of the pathophysiology of RM. Diagnostic problems are discussed in addition to the current opinion on how to treat RM.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intranasal
  • Administration, Topical
  • Clinical Competence*
  • Cognition*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Nasal Decongestants / administration & dosage
  • Nasal Decongestants / adverse effects*
  • Nasal Mucosa / blood supply
  • Nasal Mucosa / drug effects
  • Nasal Mucosa / physiopathology
  • Otolaryngology*
  • Rhinitis / chemically induced*
  • Rhinitis / diagnosis
  • Rhinitis / physiopathology*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Nasal Decongestants