Nasal decongestants in monotherapy for the common cold

Diagnosis and Management of Allergic Rhinitis in Asthmatic Children

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common upper airways inflammatory condition especially in paediatric population; its burden potentially impacts on quality of life, quality of sleep and daily performance, which can be difficult to perceive but not less relevant in the middle-long term. The present review aims to provide an updated overview on AR epidemiology, diagnosis and with a special focus on its connections with bronchial asthma. In fact, when considering asthmatic pediatric population, AR is probably the most important risk factor for asthma onset and the most impactful extra-bronchial determinant of asthma control. Under this perspective, allergen immunotherapy (AIT) should always be considered in the light of a precision medicine approach. In fact, AIT does represent a unique opportunity to specifically interfere with AR immunological background, improve both AR and bronchial asthma control and prevent allergic disease evolution. Verifying the patient's eligibility to that option should be considered as a priority for every physician managing children suffering from AR, especially when associated with bronchial asthma.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Honey Consumption With Anti-Cough Medication in Pediatric Patients: A Systematic Review

Coughing is one of the most prevalent symptoms in children presenting at outpatient departments. This systematic review aimed to review previous literature in order to compare the use of honey and antitussive medications for treating coughs in children. Literature was screened across five databases using Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) strategy, keywords, and inclusion and exclusion criteria. The remaining literature was evaluated using a quality appraisal tool checklist. This review includes systematic reviews, ‎‎meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, cross-sectional studies, and articles ‎without ‎a defined ‎methodology section. This review suggests that honey is effective in treating children above 12 months of age, while cold and cough medications (CCMs) are safe if administered at therapeutic doses. Since fatalities can occur in children under two years of age, further RCT studies on CCMs are required to establish safety across all age groups.

Postmarketing Reevaluation of Chinese Traditional Therapy Kangbingdu Oral Liquid in the Treatment of the Common Cold

Background

Observational studies from China suggest that Kangbingdu oral liquid (KBD) may be effective in treating the common cold.

Objective

Reevaluation of efficacy and safety of Kangbingdu oral liquid after marketing and expanding population.

Design

Prospective, Pragmatic randomized controlled trial (Chictr.org.cn registration number: chiCTR-TRC-12002399). Setting. Eleven hospitals from 3 provinces in China. Patients were recruited through 11 centers, including 7 teaching hospitals, 2 University health services, one military clinic, and one community hospital. Patients. 2647 persons aged 18 to 75 years with Common cold. Intervention. Patients were randomly allocated to 2 groups: the treatment group Kangbingdu oral liquid (composed of 9 Chinese herbal medicines and honey) and the placebo group were divided into a standard-dose group of 10 ml every time, a middle dose group of 20 ml every time, high dose group of 30 ml every time, 3 times daily. Interventions and control were given for 5 days. Measurements. The primary outcome is the mean amount of total scores measured by the 11-primary symptoms: to observe the change of main symptoms from severe to disappear and to calculate and compare the mean amount of total scores after the periods of observation. Secondary outcomes are the disappearance rate of each symptom and the median time of body temperature returned to normal.

Results

On day 5, the Kangbingdu liquid group had significant reductions in the mean amount of total scores measured by the 11-primary symptoms (7.39 [95% CI 7.26 to 7.51] compared to the placebo group (6.43 [95%: CI 6.24 to 6.62]). The Kangbingdu liquid can improve the remission rate of accompanying symptoms on day 5 including aversion to wind, aversion to cold, fever, cough, stuffy, runny nose, sore throat, muscular aches, headache, fatigue, and sweat (P < 0.0001). Significant reductions in time of body temperature to return to normal in the Kangbingdu liquid group (P50, 48.33 [95% CI 46.00 to 52.50] compared with the control group (P50, 64.59 [95% CI 51.08 to 70.50] (P=0.0022). 13 (0.7%) participants in the Kangbingdu liquid group and 1(0.2%) participants in the placebo group (P > 0.05) had treatment-related AEs, which mainly include diarrhea and dyspepsia in the Kangbingdu liquid group and constipation in the placebo group.

Conclusion

The study's conclusion in this paper was based on the placebo, Kangbingdu oral liquid two groups which clinically diagnosed the common cold and flu. (1) Kangbingdu oral liquid can effectively improve the comprehensive clinical symptoms of common adult cold, also improved main symptoms, including sore throat, muscle aches, headache, and so on. (2) Kangbingdu oral liquid effectively shortens the time of body temperature to return to normal.

Pharmacological Management of Allergic Rhinitis: A Consensus Statement from the Malaysian Society of Allergy and Immunology

The goal of allergic rhinitis (AR) management is to achieve satisfactory symptom control to ensure good quality of life. Most patients with AR are currently treated with pharmacotherapy. However, knowledge gaps on the use of pharmacotherapy still exist among physicians, particularly in the primary care setting, despite the availability of guideline recommendations. Furthermore, it is common for physicians in the secondary care setting to express uncertainty regarding the use of new combination therapies like intranasal corticosteroid plus antihistamine combinations. Inadequate treatment leads to significant reduction of quality of life that affects daily activities at home, work, and school. With these concerns in mind, a practical consensus statement was developed to complement existing guidelines on the rational use of pharmacotherapy in both the primary and secondary care settings.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) consensus statement on acute respiratory illness in athletes part 1: acute respiratory infections

Acute illnesses affecting the respiratory tract are common and form a significant component of the work of Sport and Exercise Medicine (SEM) clinicians. Acute respiratory illness (ARill) can broadly be classified as non-infective ARill and acute respiratory infections (ARinf). The aim of this consensus is to provide the SEM clinician with an overview and practical clinical approach to ARinf in athletes. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Medical and Scientific Commission appointed an international consensus group to review ARill (non-infective ARill and ARinf) in athletes. Six subgroups of the IOC Consensus group were initially established to review the following key areas of ARill in athletes: (1) epidemiology/risk factors for ARill, (2) ARinf, (3) non-infective ARill including ARill due to environmental exposure, (4) acute asthma and related conditions, (5) effects of ARill on exercise/sports performance, medical complications/return-to-sport and (6) acute nasal/vocal cord dysfunction presenting as ARill. Several systematic and narrative reviews were conducted by IOC consensus subgroups, and these then formed the basis of sections in the consensus documents. Drafting and internal review of sections were allocated to 'core' members of the consensus group, and an advanced draft of the consensus document was discussed during a meeting of the main consensus core group in Lausanne, Switzerland on 11 to 12 October 2021. Final edits were completed after the meeting. This consensus document (part 1) focusses on ARinf, which accounts for the majority of ARill in athletes. The first section of this consensus proposes a set of definitions and classifications of ARinf in athletes to standardise future data collection and reporting. The remainder of the consensus paper examines a wide range of clinical considerations related to ARinf in athletes: epidemiology, risk factors, pathology/pathophysiology, clinical presentation and diagnosis, management, prevention, medical considerations, risks of infection during exercise, effects of infection on exercise/sports performance and return-to-sport guidelines.

Efficacy and Safety of Ganduqing Granules in Treating the Common Cold: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background

There is no clear evidence-based medicine that points to the most effective drug treatments for the common cold. In view of its ability to relieve symptoms and shorten the disease course, as well as its minimal side effects, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used to treat the common cold. However, there is a lack of strong evidence to support the clinical efficacy of TCM. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ganduqing granules in the treatment of the common cold based on the network pharmacology analysis.

Methods

In this multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 60 eligible subjects will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the placebo group. The intervention group will be treated with Ganduqing granules, while the placebo group will be treated with placebo. After 5 days of intervention, the efficacy and safety of Ganduqing granules in the treatment of the common cold will be observed. The primary outcome is the time to clearance of all symptoms. The secondary outcomes included the levels of IL-6, TNF-α, SOD, and MDA in the peripheral blood, time to disappearance of primary symptoms and secondary symptoms, clinical symptom remission rate, and change in TCM syndrome score.

Results

Sixty participants completed the study. Ganduqing granules showed a greater effect on the time to clearance of all symptoms (P < 0.0001), nasal discharge (P=0.0124), fatigue and lack of strength (P=0.0138), dryness of the pharynx (P < 0.0001), pharyngalgia or dysphagia (P < 0.0001), and expectoration (P < 0.0431) compared with the placebo group. Participants in the intervention group had a greater decrease of IL-6 levels compared with the placebo group (P < 0.007); similar results were observed for the SOD (P < 0.033). However, the change in TNF-α and MDA levels in the intervention group was not significantly different from the placebo group. In addition, participants in the intervention group had a greater decrease of TCM syndrome score compared with the placebo group (P < 0.040).

Conclusion

Ganduqing granules could improve common cold symptoms, shorten the disease course, attenuated inflammation and oxidative stress, and provided objective evidence for the efficacy and safety of a Chinese herbal medicine in treating the common cold.

Oral antihistamine-decongestant-analgesic combinations for the common cold

BACKGROUND

Although combination formulas containing antihistamines, decongestants, and/or analgesics are sold over-the-counter in large quantities for the common cold, the evidence for their effectiveness is limited. This is an update of a review first published in 2012.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of antihistamine-decongestant-analgesic combinations compared with placebo or other active controls (excluding antibiotics) in reducing the duration of symptoms and alleviating symptoms (general feeling of illness, nasal congestion, rhinorrhoea, sneezing, and cough) in children and adults with the common cold.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE via EBSCOhost, Embase, CINAHL via EBSCOhost, LILACS, and Web of Science to 10 June 2021. We searched the WHO ICTRP and ClinicalTrials.gov on 10 June 2021.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of antihistamine-decongestant-analgesic combinations compared with placebo, other active treatment (excluding antibiotics), or no treatment in children and adults with the common cold.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. We categorised the included trials according to the active ingredients.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 30 studies (6304 participants) including 31 treatment comparisons. The control intervention was placebo in 26 trials and an active substance (paracetamol, chlorphenindione + phenylpropanolamine + belladonna, diphenhydramine) in six trials (two trials had placebo as well as active treatment arms). Reporting of methods was generally poor, and there were large differences in study design, participants, interventions, and outcomes. Most of the included trials involved adult participants. Children were included in nine trials. Three trials included very young children (from six months to five years), and five trials included children aged 2 to 16. One trial included adults and children aged 12 years or older. The trials took place in different settings: university clinics, paediatric departments, family medicine departments, and general practice surgeries.  Antihistamine-decongestant: 14 trials (1298 participants). Eight trials reported on global effectiveness, of which six studies were pooled (281 participants on active treatment and 284 participants on placebo). The odds ratio (OR) of treatment failure was 0.31 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20 to 0.48; moderate certainty evidence); number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 3.9 (95% CI 3.03 to 5.2). On the final evaluation day (follow-up: 3 to 10 days), 55% of participants in the placebo group had a favourable response compared to 70% on active treatment. Of the two trials not pooled, one showed some global effect, whilst the other showed no effect. Adverse effects: the antihistamine-decongestant group experienced more adverse effects than the control group: 128/419 (31%) versus 100/423 (13%) participants suffered one or more adverse effects (OR 1.58, 95%CI 0.78 to 3.21; moderate certainty of evidence). Antihistamine-analgesic: four trials (1608 participants). Two trials reported on global effectiveness; data from one trial were presented (290 participants on active treatment and 292 participants on ascorbic acid). The OR of treatment failure was 0.33 (95% CI 0.23 to 0.46; moderate certainty evidence); NNTB 6.67 (95% CI 4.76 to 12.5). Forty-three per cent of participants in the control group and 70% in the active treatment group were cured after six days of treatment. The second trial also showed an effect in favour of the active treatment. Adverse effects: there were not significantly more adverse effects in the active treatment group compared to placebo (drowsiness, hypersomnia, sleepiness  10/152 versus 4/120; OR 1.64 (95 % CI 0.48 to 5.59; low certainty evidence). Analgesic-decongestant: seven trials (2575 participants). One trial reported on global effectiveness: 73% of participants in the analgesic-decongestant group reported a benefit compared with 52% in the control group (paracetamol) (OR of treatment failure 0.28, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.52; moderate certainty evidence; NNTB 4.7). Adverse effects: the decongestant-analgesic group experienced significantly more adverse effects than the control group (199/1122 versus 75/675; OR 1.62  95% CI 1.18 to 2.23; high certainty evidence; number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH 17).  Antihistamine-analgesic-decongestant: six trials (1014 participants). Five trials reported on global effectiveness, of which two studies in adults could be pooled: global effect reported with active treatment (52%) and placebo (34%) was equivalent to a difference of less than one point on a four- or five-point scale; the OR of treatment failure was 0.47 (95% CI 0.33 to 0.67; low certainty evidence); NNTB 5.6 (95% CI 3.8 to 10.2). One trial in children aged 2 to 12 years, and two trials in adults found no beneficial effect. Adverse effects: in one trial 5/224 (2%) suffered adverse effects with the active treatment versus 9/208 (4%) with placebo. Two other trials reported no differences between treatment groups.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found a lack of data on the effectiveness of antihistamine-analgesic-decongestant combinations for the common cold. Based on these scarce data, the effect on individual symptoms is probably too small to be clinically relevant. The current evidence suggests that antihistamine-analgesic-decongestant combinations have some general benefit in adults and older children. These benefits must be weighed against the risk of adverse effects. There is no evidence of effectiveness in young children. In 2005, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a warning about adverse effects associated with the use of over-the-counter nasal preparations containing phenylpropanolamine.

Treatment of the most common respiratory infections in children

Acute respiratory infections are the most common group of infective diseases in the pediatric population. Although the improvement of health care and vaccination program has led to a significant reduction in the incidence of certain respiratory infections, the combination of a high prevalence in vulnerable pediatric categories and uncritical prescription of antibiotics, due to the inability to adequately distinguish between viruses and bacterial etiology, still represents a significant challenge for the public health system. In order to promote rational antibiotic therapy with an overall improvement of both diagnostic and therapeutic principles, acute respiratory diseases have been the subject of consideration in numerous publications and national guidelines. Nonspecific clinical manifestations with pathogen heterogeneity and both anatomical and physiological characteristics of the child's respiratory system during growth and development have created the need for individualized therapy. Since the guidelines emphasize the undoubtful and crucial benefits of symptomatic therapy (e.g. analgesics in acute otitis media, supplemental oxygen in lower respiratory tract infections with hypoxemia), the use of antibiotics and corticosteroids is indicated in selected cases with a severe clinical picture. The choice of antibiotic depends on the clinical condition, presumed causative agent, and local epidemiologic circumstances. Respiratory support (oxygen therapy and/or artificial ventilation) is reserved for inpatient treatment of cases with a particularly severe clinical picture and associated complications.

Medications and non-pharmacological measures to alleviate the symptoms of respiratory tract infections in the pediatric population

In the pediatric population, acute respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are the most common reason for seeking professional help from a physician or a pharmacist. Alleviation of symptoms is the only therapeutic measure in viral RTIs and is an adjunct to antibiotic therapy in bacterial RTIs. This article discusses pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic options for treating nasal congestion, cough, fever and sore throat in RTIs and clinical evidence on their efficacy and safety in the pediatric population. In general, clinical studies conducted in children for most of these drug groups are few or nonexistent, making it difficult to create evidence-based recommendations. Nasal decongestants, cough suppressants, mucolytics, expectorants, antipyretics/analgesics and sore throat local preparations are available in suitable pharmaceutical forms and strengths for the certain age. As many of them are over-the-counter (OTC) preparations, it is necessary to strictly take into account the age of the child in whom they may be used and dose properly. Multicomponent preparations carry the risk of taking unnecessary medications and of their side effects. The use of multiple OTC medicines is associated with the risk of an overdose of a component that may be present in different preparations. Appropriate non-pharmacological measures (e.g. oral hydration, nasal saline application or irrigation, honey) may be helpful and should be used whenever possible due to their safety.

[The effectiveness of complex drugs in the treatment of acute rhinitis]

Purpose of the study. Generalization of data on the value of alternative and additional treatment of acute infectious rhinitis with Korizalia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The material of scientific publications included in the Cochrane Library, information bases of the RSCI, MEDLINE, PubMed was used as a data source. The choice of material was carried out using the key words: colds, acute rhinitis, herbal medicine, homeopathic remedies.

RESULTS

Analysis of published clinical trial descriptions suggests the potential value of homeopathic medicines, in particular Korizalia, in improving the effectiveness of the treatment of acute rhinitis. The use of Korizalia in acute infectious rhinitis was more effective in relation to the main symptoms of ARI compared with placebo.

CONCLUSION

The lack of optimal drugs for the etiotropic treatment of viral acute respiratory infections determines the relevance of alternative and complementary methods of treatment using drugs of natural origin. The drug Korizalia can be used for acute respiratory infections (acute infectious rhinitis) as an alternative drug or in combination with other drugs.

Zinc for the prevention or treatment of acute viral respiratory tract infections in adults: a rapid systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the benefits and risks of zinc formulations compared with controls for prevention or treatment of acute viral respiratory tract infections (RTIs) in adults.

METHOD

Seventeen English and Chinese databases were searched in April/May 2020 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), and from April/May 2020 to August 2020 for SARS-CoV-2 RCTs. Cochrane rapid review methods were applied. Quality appraisals used the Risk of Bias 2.0 and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight RCTs with 5446 participants were identified. None were specific to SARS-CoV-2. Compared with placebo, oral or intranasal zinc prevented 5 RTIs per 100 person-months (95% CI 1 to 8, numbers needed to treat (NNT)=20, moderate-certainty/quality). Sublingual zinc did not prevent clinical colds following human rhinovirus inoculations (relative risk, RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.21, moderate-certainty/quality). On average, symptoms resolved 2 days earlier with sublingual or intranasal zinc compared with placebo (95% CI 0.61 to 3.50, very low-certainty/quality) and 19 more adults per 100 were likely to remain symptomatic on day 7 without zinc (95% CI 2 to 38, NNT=5, low-certainty/quality). There were clinically significant reductions in day 3 symptom severity scores (mean difference, MD -1.20 points, 95% CI -0.66 to -1.74, low-certainty/quality), but not average daily symptom severity scores (standardised MD -0.15, 95% CI -0.43 to 0.13, low-certainty/quality). Non-serious adverse events (AEs) (eg, nausea, mouth/nasal irritation) were higher (RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.69, NNHarm=7, moderate-certainty/quality). Compared with active controls, there were no differences in illness duration or AEs (low-certainty/quality). No serious AEs were reported in the 25 RCTs that monitored them (low-certainty/quality).

CONCLUSIONS

In adult populations unlikely to be zinc deficient, there was some evidence suggesting zinc might prevent RTIs symptoms and shorten duration. Non-serious AEs may limit tolerability for some. The comparative efficacy/effectiveness of different zinc formulations and doses were unclear. The GRADE-certainty/quality of the evidence was limited by a high risk of bias, small sample sizes and/or heterogeneity. Further research, including SARS-CoV-2 clinical trials is warranted.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020182044.

Pharmacist's recommendations of over-the-counter treatments for the common cold - analysis of prospective cases in Poland

Background

Common cold is a frequent illness in northern hemisphere between late autumn and early spring. Patients suffering from it frequently turn to pharmacists instead of physicians in order to receive medical advice and treatment. We studied its treatment advised by pharmacists in Poland, as well as evidence for the efficacy of their recommendations by utilizing a self-developed questionnaire and a study of existing literature.

Methods

The data were collected by 27 pharmacists who worked in four large network community pharmacies in Lodz, Poland. The study took place from December 2019 to February 2020. Data were recorded only if the patient asked for pharmacy counselling for over-the counter (OTC) products due to common cold self-diagnosis and a product was sold. Pharmacists’ recommendations were compared with the results of a literature review of best evidence to determine appropriateness of the pharmacists’ decisions.

Results

In four out of five cases the pharmacists recommended products contained paracetamol. In addition, in one out of three patient encounters they advised nasal decongestant, inosines and/or OTC mucolytics. There was a significant relationship between fever and recommendation frequency of some analgesics, inosines, mucolytics and sore throat products (OR > 1, p < 0.05); rhinorrhea and recommendation frequency of paracetamol, inosines, anti-histamines and alpha-mimetics (OR > 1, p < 0.05); cough and recommendation frequency of paracetamol, inosines, mucolytics and sore throat products (OR > 1, p < 0.05); and fatigue and recommendation frequency of paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, inosines and sore throat products (OR > 1, p < 0.05). The pharmacist recommendations were based on patients’ symptoms, product price, pharmaceutical company promotion and the financial incentive. In many cases their recommendations were not in line with current best practice recommendations.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the most common rationale for pharmacist recommendation on anti-common cold treatment was to take a “shotgun” approach. Pharmacists commonly made recommendations for products that lack strong evidence for efficacy (i.e. anti-viral agents) and are potentially unnecessary, based on presentation of the symptom. Reasons for this situation include lack of training, lack of time to evaluate the patient, lack of awareness of evidence as well as drug company marketing and financial incentives (i.e. fulfilling sale plans and target sale bonuses).

Trial registration

The study was a non-interventional, observational research trial. The study registration was not required.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-021-01561-2.

Paediatric outpatient prescriptions in France between 2010 and 2019: A nationwide population-based study: Paediatric outpatient prescriptions in France, 2010 to 2019

Background

Paediatric outpatient prescription (POP) monitoring is pivotal to identify inadequate prescriptions and optimize drug use. We aimed at describing recent trends in POPs in France.

Methods

All reimbursed dispensations of outpatient prescribed drugs (excluding vaccines) were prospectively collected for the paediatric population (<18 years old) in the French national health database in 2010-2011 and 2018-2019 (mean 117,356,938/year). POP prevalence (proportion of children receiving ≥1 drug prescriptions/year) was calculated by age groups and compared by prevalence rate ratios (PRRs). Given the large sample size, 95% confidence intervals of POP prevalences and PRRs did not differ from estimates.

Findings

Among the 14,510,023 children resident in France in 2018-2019, mean POP prevalence was 857‰ children. Most prescribed therapeutic classes were analgesics (643‰), antibiotics (405‰), nasal corticosteroids (328‰), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (244‰), antihistamines (246‰) and systemic corticosteroids (210‰). POPs decreased with age from 976‰ for infants to 782‰ for adolescents. Children <6 years old were notably more exposed to inhaled corticosteroids (PRR=3.06), non-penicillin beta-lactam antibacterial agents (PRR=3.05) and systemic corticosteroids (PRR=2.11) than older ones. The POP prevalence was slightly higher (PRR=1.04) during 2018-2019 than 2010-2011, with marked increases for anti-emetics (PRR=1.84), vitamin D (PRR=1.49), proton pump inhibitors (PRR=1.42), systemic contraceptives (PRR=1.24) and nasal corticosteroids (PRR=1.21) and decreases for propulsive/prokinetic agents (PRR=0.09), NSAIDs (PRR=0.73) and systemic antibiotics (PRR=0.88).

Interpretation

POP remained highly prevalent in France throughout the 2010s, especially for children <6 years old, with only a few improvements for selected therapeutic classes. These findings should prompt clinical guidance campaigns and/or regulatory policies.

Funding

Internal funding.

The selectivity of α-adrenoceptor agonists for the human α1A, α1B, and α1D-adrenoceptors

Highly selective drugs offer a way to minimize side-effects. For agonist ligands, this could be through highly selective affinity or highly selective efficacy, but this requires careful measurements of intrinsic efficacy. The α1-adrenoceptors are important clinical targets, and α1-agonists are used to manage hypotension, sedation, attention deficit hypersensitivity disorder (ADHD), and nasal decongestion. With 100 years of drug development, there are many structurally different compounds with which to study agonist selectivity. This study examined 62 α-agonists at the three human α1-adrenoceptor (α1A, α1B, and α1D) stably expressed in CHO cells. Affinity was measured using whole-cell 3 H-prazosin binding, while functional responses were measured for calcium mobilization, ERK1/2-phosphorylation, and cAMP accumulation. Efficacy ratios were used to rank compounds in order of intrinsic efficacy. Adrenaline, noradrenaline, and phenylephrine were highly efficacious α1-agonists at all three receptor subtypes. A61603 was the most selective agonist and its very high α1A-selectivity was due to selective α1A-affinity (>660-fold). There was no evidence of Gq-calcium versus ERK-phosphorylation biased signaling at the α1A, α1B, or α1D-adrenoceptors. There was little evidence for α1A calcium versus cAMP biased signaling, although there were suggestions of calcium versus cAMP bias the α1B-adrenoceptor. Comparisons of the rank order of ligand intrinsic efficacy suggest little evidence for selective intrinsic efficacy between the compounds, with perhaps the exception of dobutamine which may have some α1D-selective efficacy. There seems plenty of scope to develop affinity selective and intrinsic efficacy selective drugs for the α1-adrenoceptors in future.

Future Pharmacists' Opinions on the Facilitation of Self-Care with Over-the-Counter Products and Whether This Should Remain a Core Role

Background: The aim was to investigate pharmacy students’ views on the role of the pharmacist in facilitating self-care with over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, particularly in light of new roles, and establish personal practice. Methods: Final year pharmacy students at Queen’s University Belfast were invited to participate. Data were collected via a pre-piloted questionnaire, distributed at a compulsory class (only non-identifiable data were requested). Descriptive statistics were performed, and non-parametric tests were employed for inferential statistical analysis (responses by gender). Results: The response rate was 87.6% (78/89); 34.6% (27/78) males and 65.4% (51/78) females. Over a third [34.6% (27/78)] reported using OTC medicines about once a month. All appreciated the importance of an evidence-based approach to optimize patient care. Most [(96.2% (75/78)] deemed OTC consultations should remain a fundamental responsibility of pharmacists and 69.2% (54/78) thought OTC consultations have the potential to be as complex as independent pharmacist prescribing. Females felt more confident recommending OTC emergency contraception than males (p = 0.002 for levonorgestrel and p = 0.011 for ulipristal acetate). Many [61.5% (48/78)] considered more medicines should not be deregulated from prescription-only status. Conclusions: Data from this single institution suggests that enabling self-medication is an important part of practice but there were confidence issues around deregulations.

Efficacy and safety evaluation of a hypertonic seawater solution enriched with manganese and copper salts

Background: Nasal irrigation is commonly recommended as an adjuvant treatment for blocked nose. In the present study, the safety and efficacy profile of Stérimar Blocked Nose (SBN), a hypertonic seawater solution enriched with manganese and copper salts, has been evaluated on nasal epithelium, in vitro. Methodology: 3D reconstituted human nasal epithelium tissue model, MucilAir™, has been used to investigate the safety of SBN on nasal epithelium by measuring trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER), cytotoxicity (lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release) and phlogosis-related effects (interleukin-8 secretion). Efficacy assessment was measured by ciliary beat frequency (CBF), mucociliary clearance (MCC) and antimicrobial activities (against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Results: Four-day SBN treatment did not compromise the nasal epithelium integrity as TEER values were over the tissue integrity limit. SBN treatment did not exert cytotoxic (LDH release) or pro-inflammatory effects (IL-8 secretion). SBN treatment significantly increased the CBF and MCC rates compared to untreated cells. SBN treatment exerted a bactericidal effect on S. aureus and P. aeruginosa cultures, whereas seawater not enriched in copper and manganese had only a bacteriostatic effect. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that SBN is a safe formula for use on human nasal epithelium. The results also suggest a better potential therapeutic role for SBN in comparison to not-enriched seawater when used to control nasal congestion and inhibit bacterial growth which may cause nasal congestion.

Observational study investigating Ectoin® Rhinitis Nasal Spray as natural treatment option of acute rhinosinusitis compared to treatment with Xylometazoline

Introduction

Symptomatic relief of acute rhinosinusitis is commonly achieved with nasal decongestants. The current observational study investigated the efficacy and safety of treatment of acute rhinosinusitis with Ectoin^® Rhinitis Spray compared to or in combination with Xylometazoline-containing decongesting nasal spray.

Methods

Patients with acute rhinosinusitis applied either Ectoin^® Rhinitis Spray, Xylometazoline nasal spray or a combination of both products. Rhinosinusitis symptoms were assessed, and nasal oedema and endonasal redness were determined by rhinoscopy. Patient diaries based on the validated SNOT (Sino Nasal Outcome Test) questionnaire evaluated rhinosinusitis parameters over time and influences of the disease on quality of life. Following treatment, investigators and patients judged the efficacy and tolerability.

Results

Ectoin^® Rhinitis Spray diminished common rhinosinusitis symptoms such as nasal obstruction, nasal secretion, facial pain/headache, and smell/taste impairment. Upon treatment over 7 days, rhinosinusitis sum scores decreased statistically significantly (p < 0.001) by − 64.25%, which was comparable to that achieved with Xylometazoline-containing decongesting nasal spray (− 67.60%). No side effects were observed during treatment with Ectoin^® Rhinitis Spray, whereas treatment with Xylometazoline-containing nasal spray resulted in nasal mucosa dryness. Concomitant treatment with both products diminished the development of nasal dryness and required fewer applications of Xylometazoline-containing nasal spray.

Conclusion

Ectoin^® Rhinitis Spray is an effective, natural treatment option for acute rhinosinusitis, which may be used as monotherapy or as add-on treatment with a Xylometazoline-containing nasal spray. The concomitant use of Ectoin^® Rhinitis Spray might reduce the needed dose of decongestant nasal spray and counteract bothersome side effects such as dry nasal mucosa.

Trial registration

The current study was registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov database under the identifier: NCT03693976 (date of registration: Oct 3, 2018).

Carrageenan-containing over-the-counter nasal and oral sprays inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection of airway epithelial cultures

Pharmaceutical interventions are urgently needed to prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and transmission. As SARS-CoV-2 infects and spreads via the nasopharyngeal airways, we analyzed the antiviral effect of selected nasal and oral sprays on virus infection in vitro. Two nose sprays showed virucidal activity but were cytotoxic precluding further analysis in cell culture. One nasal and one mouth spray suppressed SARS-CoV-2 infection of TMPRSS2-expressing Vero E6 cells and primary differentiated human airway epithelial cultures. The antiviral activity in both sprays could be attributed to polyanionic ι- and κ-carrageenans. Thus, application of carrageenan-containing nasal and mouth sprays may reduce the risk of acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection and may limit viral spread, warranting further clinical evaluation.

Conceptual Model for Using Imidazoline Derivative Solutions in Pulpal Management

Alpha-adrenergic agonists, such as the Imidazoline derivatives (ImDs) of oxymetazoline and xylometazoline, are highly effective hemostatic agents. ImDs have not been widely used in dentistry but their use in medicine, specifically in ophthalmology and otolaryngology, warrants consideration for pulpal hemostasis. This review presents dental healthcare professionals with an overview of ImDs in medicine. ImD solutions have the potential to be more effective and biocompatible than existing topical hemostatic compounds in pulpal management. Through a comprehensive analysis of the pharmacology of ImDs and the microphysiology of hemostasis regulation in oral tissues, a conceptual model of pulpal management by ImD solutions is presented.

In vitro Comparison of Safety and Efficacy of Diluted Isotonic Seawater and Electrodialyzed Seawater for Nasal Hygiene

Background

Nasal irrigation is often used for managing sinonasal conditions and maintaining nasal hygiene, which is critical to overall nasal health and to provide protection against airborne contaminants and pathogens. However, studies comparing efficacies of different solutions are needed.

Purpose

This in vitro study evaluated the ionic balance of an isotonic diluted seawater solution (Stérimar Nasal Hygiene, SNH) and its safety and efficacy for regular nasal hygiene in comparison to electrodialyzed seawater (EDS).

Materials and Methods

Ionic balance of SNH, EDS and pure seawater was measured by mass spectrometry and chromatography to be compared to the ionic balance of human plasma as reported in the literature. Safety was measured through cytotoxicity (lactate dehydrogenase release) and pro-inflammation (interleukin-8 secretion) assays using a 3D-reconstituted human nasal epithelium model. For efficacy, adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) release assays, and histological (alcian blue) and immunohistochemical (aquaporin 3) stainings were performed on tissues under hypotonic challenge where saline solution was used as the negative control.

Results

Compared to EDS, the ionic balance of SNH was more similar to human plasma and pure seawater. SNH reduced hypotonic stress-associated ATP release and maintained tissue morphology more effectively and lastingly compared to EDS. Both solutions were safe to use on nasal epithelium, as neither of them caused cytotoxicity or induced (pro-) inflammation.

Conclusion

In comparison to EDS, this study confirms the safety and efficacy of SNH in maintaining good nasal hygiene consistent with its benefits reported in clinical trials.

Differences in the Intended Meaning of Congestion Between Patients and Clinicians

Importance

Disagreement in the presumed meaning of common medical terms may impair communication between patients and caregivers.

Objective

To clarify the intended meaning of the term congestion among otolaryngology clinic patients and to identify discrepancies in definitions between patients and otolaryngologists.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cross-sectional survey study from an otolaryngology clinic at an academic center, a semantics-based questionnaire was provided to consecutive new patients during intake for a clinical encounter from December 2016 through February 2017, and to 31 otolaryngologists and 28 nonotolaryngologist physicians in February 2018. Respondent definitions for congestion were selected from a list of 16 proposed terms covering 4 general categories.

Main Outcome and Measures

Symptom categories for term used to describe congestion by patients and clinicians.

Results

Among 226 patient respondents (133 female [58.8%]; mean [SD] age, 54 [15.6] years), the most commonly selected definitions for congestion were from the obstructive (199; 88.1%) and mucus-related (196; 86.7%) symptom categories. More than 1 general category was selected by 208 patients (92.0%), whereas 11 patients (4.9%) described congestion only in terms of mucus-related symptoms. Definitions were limited to upper respiratory tract symptoms by 83 (36.7%) patients and lower respiratory tract symptoms by 2 (0.9%) patients. Among 31 otolaryngologists, congestion was most frequently defined in terms of obstructive symptoms (difference, 11.9%; 95% CI, 7.4%-16.5%). In contrast, patients more often described congestion in terms of pressure-related (difference, 38.8%; 95% CI, 7.5%-70.1%) or mucus-related (difference, 51.2%; 95% CI, 22.6%-79.9%) symptoms. A total of 22 otolaryngologists (71.0%) defined congestion using 1 to 4 symptoms, compared with only 69 patients (30.5%).

Conclusions and Relevance

The definition of congestion appears to be highly variable and ambiguous for many patients. Moreover, the findings suggest that patients and otolaryngologists generally do not describe congestion using the same terms.

Common Cold and Acute Rhinosinusitis: Up-to-Date Management in 2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purposes of the review are as follows: (1) to define acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) and their phenotypes, (2) to highlight the ARS management according to international guidelines, (3) to compare the physicians' management with the ARS guideline recommendations, and (4) to report ARS socioeconomic burden.

RECENT FINDINGS

Bacterial and non-bacterial ARS have similar symptoms, although they can be discriminated by using a combination of specific signs and symptoms. The prescription of antibiotics should be limited to clearly suspected bacterial ARS. There is an overuse of diagnosis tools and treatment prescriptions. The total cost per ARS episode in Europe is over €1000. ARS is mainly an inflammatory disease triggered by viral infection, and few cases end up developing bacterial infection. In most of the cases, it is a self-resolving disease which diagnosis is mainly clinical and the treatment symptomatic. The incidence of complications is low and independent of antibiotic use. There is a high socioeconomic burden associated to ARS.

[Results of an open, randomized, actively controlled study of the efficacy and safety of the new drug Freinozole nasal spray (Phenylephrine + Cetyrizine) in patients with acute respiratory infection]

The aim of the study was proof of efficacy and safety of the drug Frinozol nasal spray in patients with acute respiratory infection (acute rhinitis). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A randomized open-label study with active control included 134 ambulatory patients: men and women aged 18 to 65 years with acute upper respiratory tract infection (acute rhinitis) lasting no more than 48 hours before inclusion into the study. Patients were randomized in two groups: group 1 took Frinozol nasal spray 2 sprays per each nostril three times a day for 7 days, subjects randomized to the group 2 took Vibrocil at the same dose and treatment regimen. The primary efficacy endpoint in the study was assessment of the dynamics of symptoms such as nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, itching in the nose and hyposmia using 10 cm VAS in 1 day after the start of treatment compared to the baseline. Secondary endpoints included assessment of the dynamics of nasal symptoms after 7 days of treatment, changes in the values of the Congestion Quantifier 5, CQ-5 questionnaire and evaluation of the effectiveness by the investigator. Safety analysis was carried out throughout the study and included the assessment of adverse events, laboratory data, vital signs, ECG assessment. RESULTS: According to the results of the study and comparative analysis of the primary (assessment of the dynamics of nasal symptoms on a 10 cm visual analogue scale 1 day after the start of treatment) and secondary efficacy endpoints as well as a comprehensive safety analysis, it can be concluded that the study drug is not inferior to the reference drug. Thus, the new combination Frinozol nasal spray is an effective and safe treatment for patients with acute respiratory infections.

Burden of disease in children with respiratory tract infections in primary care: diary-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are a common reason for children to consult in general practice. Antibiotics are often prescribed, in part due to miscommunication between parents and GPs. The duration of specific respiratory symptoms has been widely studied. Less is known about illness-related symptoms and the impact of these symptoms on family life, including parental production loss. Better understanding of the natural course of illness-related symptoms in RTI in children and impact on family life may improve GP-parent communication during RTI consultations.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the general impact of RTI on children and parents regarding illness-related symptoms, absenteeism from childcare, school and work, use of health care facilities, and the use of over-the-counter (OTC) medication.

METHODS

Prospectively collected diary data from two randomized clinical trials in children with RTI in primary care (n = 149). Duration of symptoms was analysed using survival analysis.

RESULTS

Disturbed sleep, decreased intake of food and/or fluid, feeling ill and/or disturbance at play or other daily activities are very common during RTI episodes, with disturbed sleep lasting longest. Fifty-two percent of the children were absent for one or more days from childcare or school, and 28% of mothers and 20% of fathers reported absence from work the first week after GP consultation. Re-consultation occurred in 48% of the children. OTC medication was given frequently, particularly paracetamol and nasal sprays.

CONCLUSION

Appreciation of, and communication about the general burden of disease on children and their parents, may improve understanding between GPs and parents consulting with their child.

Using Patient Profiles To Guide The Choice Of Antihistamines In The Primary Care Setting In Malaysia: Expert Consensus And Recommendations

H1-antihistamines are recognized to be effective for conditions such as allergic rhinitis and chronic spontaneous urticaria. However, management of such conditions in the real-world primary care setting may be challenging due to diverse patient-specific considerations, the wide range of antihistamines available, choice of other treatment modalities, and the complexity of interpreting specialist treatment algorithms. Despite regular updates to international guidelines, regional/national surveys of healthcare professionals show a clear gap between guidelines and real-world practice, particularly at the primary care level. This article thus presents the consensus opinion of experts from relevant specialties in Malaysia - allergology, pediatrics, otorhinolaryngology, and dermtology - on harmonizing the use and choice of antihistamines in primary care. Patient profiling is recommended as a tool to guide primary care practitioners in prescribing the appropriate antihistamine for each patient. Patient profiling is a three-step approach that involves 1) identifying the individual's needs; 2) reviewing patient-specific considerations; and 3) monitoring treatment response and referral to specialists in more severe or difficult-to-treat cases. Concurrently, guidelct 3ines should be reviewed and updated periodically to include recommendations that are easily actionable for primary care practitioners.

Manejo perioperatorio de niños con infección respiratoria superior

Introducción. Es frecuente que muchos niños sometidos a procedimientos con anestesia general tengan historia de infección viral respiratoria superior reciente o activa.Objetivo. Realizar una revisión narrativa acerca de las pautas de manejo anestésico para los niños con infección reciente o activa de la vía aérea superior.Materiales y métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda estructurada de la literatura en las bases de datos ProQuest, EBSCO, ScienceDirect, PubMed, LILACS, Embase, Trip Database, SciELO y Cochrane Library con los términos Anesthesia AND Respiratory Tract Infections AND Complications; Anesthesia AND Upper respiratory tract infection AND Complications; Anesthesia, General AND Respiratory Tract Infections AND Complications; Anesthesia, General AND Upper respiratory tract infection AND Complications; Anesthesia AND Laryngospasm OR Bronchospasm. La búsqueda se hizo en inglés con sus equivalentes en español.Resultados. Se encontraron 56 artículos con información relevante para el desarrollo de la presente revisión.Conclusiones. Una menor manipulación de la vía aérea tiende a disminuir la frecuencia de aparición y severidad de eventos adversos respiratorios perioperatorios. No existe evidencia suficiente para recomendar la optimización medicamentosa en pacientes con infección respiratoria superior.

A marine-sourced fucoidan solution inhibits Toll-like-receptor-3-induced cytokine release by human bronchial epithelial cells

Fucoidans are sulfated polysaccharides from brown algae, known to have immunomodulatory activity. Their effects on the response of airway epithelial cells to Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) stimulation have not been characterized. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of a marine-sourced fucoidan solution (MFS) on the TLR3-induced expression and/or production of cytokines and prostaglandin by human primary bronchial epithelial cells as a model of the airway epithelium. The cells were incubated with MFS in the presence or absence of Poly(I:C) (a TLR3 agonist that mimics viral RNA). Cytokine expression and production were assessed using RT-qPCR and ELISA. The expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and the production of prostaglandin E2 were also measured. Relative to control, exposure to MFS was associated with lower Poly(I:C)-induced mRNA expression of various cytokines and chemokines, and lower COX-2 production. The MFS inhibited the production of some cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, TNFα, and IL-6), chemokines (CCL5, CCL22, CXCL1, CXCL5 and CXCL8) and prostaglandin E2 but did not alter the production of IL-12/25, CCL2 and CCL20. At clinically relevant concentrations, the MFS inhibited the TLR3-mediated production of inflammatory mediators by human primary bronchial epithelial cells - suggesting that locally applied MFS might help to reduce airway inflammation in viral infections.

In Vitro Safety Pharmacology Profiling of Topical α-Adrenergic Agonist Treatments for Erythema of Rosacea

Background

Topical α-adrenergic agonist therapy has been developed to treat the persistent erythema of rosacea patients. Brimonidine and oxymetazoline are both topical α-adrenergic agonists.

Objectives

The objective of this in vitro safety pharmacology study was to compare the potential safety profiles of brimonidine and oxymetazoline.

Methods

Brimonidine and oxymetazoline underwent pharmacological profiling with a standard panel of 151 assays, including α-adrenergic receptors and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptors. A valvular interstitial cell (VIC) proliferation assay was performed with oxymetazoline hydrochloride.

Results

Brimonidine was highly selective for the α₂ adrenergic receptors, specifically α_2A, whereas oxymetazoline was found to be much less selective and was highly active against a wide range of targets. Negligible activity was observed with brimonidine at the 5-HT_2B receptor, whereas oxymetazoline had significant 5-HT_2B receptor agonist activity and caused proliferation of mitral VICs in vitro.

Conclusion

As the 5-HT_2B receptor is potentially involved in drug-induced valvulopathy, the benefit/risk ratio should be carefully considered, especially in patients with cardiovascular disease or other comorbidities.

Characteristics of the use of cold combination products among older ambulatory patients at the National Hospital Organization Tochigi Medical Center in Japan: a retrospective single-center observational study

Objective

Results

Dexpanthenol: An Overview of its Contribution to Symptom Relief in Acute Rhinitis Treated with Decongestant Nasal Sprays

Nasal blockage is the most bothersome symptom of acute rhinitis. Nasal decongestant sprays containing alpha-sympathomimetics, such as oxymetazoline and xylometazoline, have a rapid onset of action. However, this effect decreases with repeated application and, furthermore, the ciliary function of the nasal mucosa is practically paralyzed. Dexpanthenol promotes cell proliferation and protects the epithelium. Combining these two agents has demonstrated beneficial synergetic effects on the symptoms of acute rhinitis. In a post hoc analysis of a large-scale double-blind, active-controlled study including 152 patients, we could demonstrate that the benefit of added dexpanthenol appears as early as on the third day of the combined application of xylometazoline and dexpanthenol in terms of complete or near-to-complete freedom from symptoms. After 5 days, 47% of the patients were cured under the combined treatment compared with only 1% under xylometazoline monotherapy. These data show that the addition of dexpanthenol to an alpha-sympathomimetic nasal spray not only improves its tolerability but also further increases its effectiveness and leads to expedited cure.

FUNDING

Klosterfrau Healthcare Group.