Some studies have reported good results in using antibiotics that are sprayed into the nasal passages using a nebulizer. In one study, patients preferred this method to either oral or intravenous treatments.
Corticosteroids for Chronic Sinusitis
Benefits of Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays. Nasal-spray corticosteroids, most commonly called steroids, are effective drugs for treating allergic rhinitis. They also are proving to be very important in the treatment of chronic sinusitis and are sometimes used for acute sinusitis. Some studies have reported that, when combined with antibiotics, they speed recovery and improve healing rates of sinusitis compared to antibiotics alone. Nasal spray steroids are proving to be safe and have the following benefits:
- They reduce inflammation and mucus production
- They improve night sleep and daytime alertness in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis
- They appear to be beneficial in treating polyps in the nasal passages
Nasal-Spray Brands. Corticosteroids available in nasal spray form include:
- Triamcinolone (Nasacort). Approved for children over age 6.
- Mometasone furoate (Nasonex). Approved for use in patients as young as age 3.
- Fluticasone (Flonase, Flounce). Approved for children over age 4.
- Beclomethasone (Beconase, Vancenase), flunisolide (Nasalide), and budesonide (Rhinocort). Approved for children over age 6.
Side Effects. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs. Although oral steroids can have many side effects, the nasal-spray form affects only local areas, and the risk for wide spread side effects is very low unless the drug is used excessively.
- Dryness, burning, stinging in the nasal passage
- Sneezing
- Headaches and nosebleed (these side effects are uncommon but should be reported to your doctor immediately)
Possible Long-Term Complications. Corticosteroids suppress stress hormones, which are known to produce some serious long-term complications in people who take oral steroids. Researchers have found far fewer concerns with nasal administration or inhaled forms, but there may be certain problems.
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