Topical treatment of rhinitis: current status. Physiopathologic and pharmacologic bases

Rhinitis is defined as inflammation of the lining of the nose, characterized by one or more of the following symptoms: nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, sneezing and itching. Modifications of nose secretion and of the blood supply of the nasal mucosa are responsible for development of rhinitis. Cholinergic and adrenergic agents as well as histamine, 5-hydroxytriptamine, kallidin and substance P are mediators of inflammation in rhinitis. The topical pharmacological principles we have today for management of rhinitis include: antihistamines, corticosteroids, anticholinergic agents, decongestants, sodium cromoglycate, nasal douching and aromatic inhalations.