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.

Serum level and clinical significance of vitamin E in pregnant women with allergic rhinitis

BACKGROUND

Allergic rhinitis is a frequent disorder during pregnancy, while in children it is triggered by significantly lower serum vitamin E level. This research aimed to investigate whether serum vitamin E level exhibited clinical significance in pregnant women with allergic rhinitis.

METHODS

In this study, 37 pregnant women with allergic rhinitis and 35 healthy pregnant women were recruited. Allergic rhinitis severity was analyzed by the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS) questionnaire. Blood samples were collected to evaluate serum vitamin E, interleukin (IL), and total IgE levels.

RESULTS

In pregnant women with allergic rhinitis, serum level of vitamin E was significantly lower than in healthy pregnant women. Serum vitamin E level in pregnant women with allergic rhinitis showed a negative correlation with TNSS, IL-13, IL-4, and total IgE levels.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this research has demonstrated that pregnant women with allergic rhinitis showed significantly lower serum level of vitamin E. The decreased vitamin E showed a correlation with the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis in pregnant women.

Emedastine During Pregnancy and Lactation: Emedastine Levels in Maternal Serum, Cord Blood, Breast Milk, and Neonatal Serum

Background: Emedastine difumarate is a second-generation antihistamine that is more effective for nasal congestion than first-generation antihistamines. The oral form of emedastine is used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR). However, data characterizing emedastine transfer across the placenta and excretion into breast milk are limited. In this case report, we assessed emedastine concentrations in maternal and neonatal blood, cord blood, and breast milk. Materials and Methods: After the patient provided informed consent, emedastine concentrations in maternal serum, breast milk, cord blood, and neonatal serum were measured while the mother was taking oral emedastine 2 mg once daily. Case Report: A 39-year-old woman with AR received emedastine during pregnancy and lactation. Her female infant was born at 37 weeks of gestation with a birth weight of 2,820 g. Emedastine concentrations in maternal serum at 11.5 and 19.0 hours after maternal dosing were 0.39 and 0.22 ng/mL, respectively. The emedastine concentration in cord blood (19.6 hours after maternal dosing) was 0.18 ng/mL. At 24 hours after delivery (44 hours after maternal dosing), emedastine was under the lower limit of quantification (<0.05 ng/mL) in the infant's serum. Emedastine concentrations in breast milk ranged from 0.06 to 0.44 ng/mL. Calculated infant doses through breast milk were much lower than the clinical dose of emedastine. The infant had normal developmental progress and no detectable drug-related adverse effects. Conclusions: Rates of emedastine transfer into placenta and breast milk were low. Further study is required to assess the safety of emedastine in fetuses and breastfed infants.

ICON: Diagnosis and management of allergic conjunctivitis

Ocular allergy (OA), interchangeably known as allergic conjunctivitis, is a common immunological hypersensitivity disorder affecting up to 40% of the population. Ocular allergy has been increasing in frequency, with symptoms of itching, redness, and swelling that significantly impacts an individual's quality of life (QOL). Ocular allergy is an often underdiagnosed and undertreated health problem, because only 10% of patients with OA symptoms seek medical attention, whereas most patients manage with over-the-counter medications and complementary nonpharmacological remedies. The clinical course, duration, severity, and co-morbidities are varied and depend, in part, on the specific ocular tissues that are affected and on immunologic mechanism(s) involved, both local and systemic. It is frequently associated with allergic rhinitis (commonly recognized as allergic rhino conjunctivitis), and with other allergic comorbidities. The predominance of self-management increases the risk of suboptimal therapy that leads to recurrent exacerbations and the potential for development of more chronic conditions that can lead to corneal complications and interference with the visual axis. Multiple, often co-existing causes are seen, and a broad differential diagnosis for OA, increasing the difficulty of arriving at the correct diagnosis(es). Ocular allergy commonly overlaps with other anterior ocular disease disorders, including infectious disorders and dry eye syndromes. Therefore, successful management includes overcoming the challenges of underdiagnosis and even misdiagnosis by a better understanding of the subtleties of an in-depth patient history, ophthalmologic examination techniques, and diagnostic procedures, which are of paramount importance in making an accurate diagnosis of OA. Appropriate cross-referral between specialists (allergists and eyecare specialists) would maximize patient care and outcomes. This would significantly improve OA management and overcome the unmet needs in global health.

BSACI guideline for the diagnosis and management of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis (Revised Edition 2017; First edition 2007)

This is an updated guideline for the diagnosis and management of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, first published in 2007. It was produced by the Standards of Care Committee of the British Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, using accredited methods. Allergic rhinitis is common and affects 10-15% of children and 26% of adults in the UK, it affects quality of life, school and work attendance, and is a risk factor for development of asthma. Allergic rhinitis is diagnosed by history and examination, supported by specific allergy tests. Topical nasal corticosteroids are the treatment of choice for moderate to severe disease. Combination therapy with intranasal corticosteroid plus intranasal antihistamine is more effective than either alone and provides second line treatment for those with rhinitis poorly controlled on monotherapy. Immunotherapy is highly effective when the specific allergen is the responsible driver for the symptoms. Treatment of rhinitis is associated with benefits for asthma. Non-allergic rhinitis also is a risk factor for the development of asthma and may be eosinophilic and steroid-responsive or neurogenic and non- inflammatory. Non-allergic rhinitis may be a presenting complaint for systemic disorders such as granulomatous or eosinophilic polyangiitis, and sarcoidoisis. Infective rhinitis can be caused by viruses, and less commonly by bacteria, fungi and protozoa.

Rhinitis in pregnant women with asthma is associated with poorer asthma control and quality of life

OBJECTIVE

To describe the pattern and severity of rhinitis in pregnancy and the impact rhinitis has on asthma control and quality of life (QoL) in pregnant women with asthma.

METHODS

Two hundred and eighteen non-smoking pregnant women with asthma were participants in a randomised controlled trial of exhaled nitric oxide guided treatment adjustment. Rhinitis was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) scored from 0 to 10 and classified as current (VAS > 2.5), moderate/severe versus mild (VAS > 6 vs <5), atopic versus non-atopic and pregnancy rhinitis. At baseline, women completed the 20-Item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT20), asthma-specific (AQLQ-M) QoL questionnaires and the Six-Item Short-Form State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6). Asthma control was assessed using the asthma control questionnaire (ACQ). Perinatal outcomes were collected after delivery.

RESULTS

Current rhinitis was present in 142 (65%) women including 45 (20%) women who developed pregnancy rhinitis. Women with current rhinitis had higher scores for ACQ (p = 0.004), SNOT20 (p < 0.0001) and AQLQ-M (p < 0.0001) compared to women with no rhinitis. Current rhinitis was associated with increased anxiety symptoms (p = 0.002), rhinitis severity was associated with higher ACQ score (p = 0.004) and atopic rhinitis was associated with poorer lung function (p = 0.037). Rhinitis symptom severity improved significantly during gestation (p < 0.0001). There was no impact on perinatal outcomes. Improved asthma control was associated with improvement in rhinitis.

CONCLUSION

Rhinitis in pregnant women with asthma is common and associated with poorer asthma control, sino-nasal and asthma-specific QoL impairment and anxiety. In the context of active asthma management there was significant improvement in rhinitis symptoms and severity as pregnancy progressed.

[Medication therapy during pregnancy]

Approximately 85% of pregnant women receive at least one medical prescription during their gestation. One percent of major congenital malformations of the fetus are attributed to embryotoxic medication. Because ENT surgeons and pregnant women are often uncertain about proper medication, treatment of specific ENT problems is often provided by the obstetrician. Based on the current knowledge, PubMed research, and recommendations of the Red List (Rote Liste) of the German Pharmaceutical Industry and the FDA, medical treatment of ENT-specific diseases is discussed.

Antihistamine therapy in allergic rhinitis

Antihistamines have long been a mainstay in the therapy for allergic rhinitis. Many different oral antihistamines are available for use, and they are classified as first generation or second generation based on their pharmacologic properties and side-effect profiles. The recent introduction of intranasal antihistamines has further expanded the role of antihistamines in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Certain patient populations, such as children and pregnant or lactating women, require special consideration regarding antihistamine choice and dosing as part of rhinitis therapy.

[Asthma and pregnancy. Review of the current literature and management according to the GINA 2006-2007 guidelines]

INTRODUCTION

Many pregnant women are asthmatics and maternal asthma is a source of questions and complications concerning both the progress of the pregnancy itself and the impact on the foetus. In this situation good asthma control is essential as the disease can deteriorate with acute exacerbations, possibly precipitated by reduction or even withdrawal of treatment on account of fear of teratogenicity.

BACKGROUND

Even though asthma treatments are not totally harmless during pregnancy, their use has been validated by several studies and guidelines. To help clinicians, we undertake here a review of the complications induced by maternal asthma and its medications, and then suggest management guidelines according to the most recent publications.

CONCLUSIONS

The risks and benefits of asthma treatments should be explained in a real partnership between the patient and her general practitioner and specialists (obstetrician, chest physician or allergist). In order to reduce complications to both mother and child, perfect control of asthma is required and inhaled steroids remain the treatment of choice for partially or uncontrolled asthma in the pregnant woman.

Treating common problems of the nose and throat in pregnancy: what is safe?

Although all kinds of medications should be avoided during pregnancy, the majority of pregnant women receive at least one drug and 6% of them during the high-risk period of the first trimester. The aim of the present paper is to discuss the appropriate management of rhinologic and laryngeal conditions that may be encountered during pregnancy. A literature review from Medline and database sources was carried out. Related books and written guidelines were also included. Controlled clinical trials, prospective and retrospective studies, case-control studies, laboratory studies, clinical and systematic reviews, metanalyses, and case reports were analysed. The following drugs are considered relatively safe: beta-lactam antibiotics (with dose adjustment), macrolides (although the use of erythromycin and clarithromycin carries a certain risk), clindamycin, metronidazole (better avoided in the first trimester), amphotericin-B (especially in immunocompromised situations during the second and third trimester) and acyclovir. First-line antituberculous agents isoniazid, ethambutol, pyrazinamide, and ciprofloxacine in drug-resistant tuberculosis can be also used. Non-selective NSAIDs (until the 32nd week), nasal decongestants (with caution and up to 7 days), intranasal corticosteroids, with budesonide as the treatment of choice, second generation antihistamines (cetirizine in the third trimester, or loratadine in the second and third trimester), H2 receptor antagonists (except nizatidine) and proton pump inhibitors (except omeprazole) can be used to relieve patients from the related symptoms. In cases of emergencies, epinephrine, prednisone, prednisolone, methylprednisolone, dimetindene and nebulised b(2) agonists can be used with extreme caution. By contrast, selective COX-2 inhibitors and BCG vaccination are contraindicated in pregnancy. When prescribing to a pregnant woman, the safety of the materno-foetal unit is considered paramount. Although medications are potentially hazardous, misconceptions and suboptimal treatment of the mother might be more harmful to the unborn child. Knowledge update is necessary to avoid unjustified hesitations and provide appropriate counselling and treatment for pregnant women.

BSACI guidelines for the management of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis

This guidance for the management of patients with allergic and non‐allergic rhinitis has been prepared by the Standards of Care Committee (SOCC) of the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (BSACI). The guideline is based on evidence as well as on expert opinion and is for use by both adult physicians and paediatricians practicing in allergy. The recommendations are evidence graded. During the development of these guidelines, all BSACI members were included in the consultation process using a web‐based system. Their comments and suggestions were carefully considered by the SOCC. Where evidence was lacking, consensus was reached by the experts on the committee. Included in this guideline are clinical classification of rhinitis, aetiology, diagnosis, investigations and management including subcutaneous and sublingual immunotherapy. There are also special sections for children, co‐morbid associations and pregnancy. Finally, we have made recommendations for potential areas of future research.

Treating common ear problems in pregnancy: what is safe?

In everyday practise, more than 80% of pregnant women receive one at least medication, often for ENT causes. The aim of the present paper is to review the literature on safety and administration of medical treatment for ear diseases, in pregnant women. The literature review includes Medline and database sources. Electronic links, related books and written guidelines were also included. The study selection was as follows: controlled clinical trials, prospective trials, case-control studies, laboratory studies, clinical reviews, systematic reviews, metanalyses, and case reports. The following drugs are considered relatively safe: beta-lactam antibiotics (with dose adjustment), macrolides (although the use of erythromycin and clarithromycin carries a certain risk), and acyclovir. Non-selective NSAIDs (until the 32nd week), nasal decongestants (with caution and up to 7 days), intranasal corticosteroids, with budesonide as the treatment of choice, first generation antihistamines, or cetirizine (third trimester) and loratadine (second and third trimester) from the second generation, H2 receptor antagonists (except nizatidine) and proton pump inhibitors (except omeprazole), can be used to relieve patients from the related symptoms. Meclizine and dimenhydrinate, as antiemetics in vertigo attacks; metoclopramide, vitamin B6 and ginger rhizome, alternatively. Low-dose diazepam and diuretics in severe cases of Meniere's disease (with caution). Systemic administration of prednisone and prednisolone can be considered in selected cases. By contrast, selective COX-2 inhibitors, betahistine and vasodilating agents are contraindicated in pregnancy. Since otologic and neurotologic manifestations during pregnancy tend to seriously affect the quality of life of the expectant mothers, ENT surgeons should familiarise themselves with the basic guidelines and safety precautions for any related medication, in order to provide appropriate treatment.

Allergic rhinitis in women

Allergic rhinitis is a high-prevalence disease that significantly impairs the quality of life. Its pathogenesis is quite well understood, and involves numerous cells, cytokines and mediators, which result in an inflammatory process. The triggering IgE-mediated reaction does not differ between men and women, but in females some aspects, related mainly to the hormonal frame, must be taken into account. In fact, cyclic hormonal changes can affect the severity of rhinitis, as can pregnancy, which may result in a particular form of 'pregnancy rhinitis'. The most important and challenging aspect is the management of allergic rhinitis in pregnancy, which require a careful evaluation of the risk:benefit ratio. This review will examine the aforementioned aspects, with particular regard to the pharmacotherapy of rhinitis in pregnancy.

Treating allergic rhinitis in pregnancy

Numerous pregnant women suffer from allergic rhinitis, and particular attention is required when prescribing drugs to these patients. In addition, physiologic changes associated with pregnancy could affect the upper airways. Evidence-based guidelines on the management of allergic rhinitis have been published. Medication can be prescribed during pregnancy when the apparent benefit of the drug is greater than the apparent risk. Usually, there is at least one "safe" drug from each major class used to control symptoms. All glucocorticosteroids are teratogenic in animals but, when the indication is clear (for diseases possibly associated, such as severe asthma exacerbation), the benefit of the drug is far greater than the risk. Inhaled glucocorticosteroids (eg, beclomethasone or budesonide) have not been incriminated as teratogens in humans and are used by pregnant women who have asthma. A few H1-antihistamines can safely be used as well. Most oral decongestants (except pseudoephedrine) are teratogenic in animals. There are no such data available for intranasal decongestants. Finally, pregnancy is not considered to be a contraindication for the continuation of immunotherapy.

Topical glucocorticosteroids in rhinitis: clinical aspects

The introduction of nasal glucocorticosteroids, 30 years ago, has been the most important therapeutic progress in rhinitis management since the introduction of the first generation of antihistamines. Our knowledge of the mode of action of glucocorticosteroids in the nose has improved as the airway mucous membrane of the nose is easily accessible for investigation. However, the exact mechanism behind the marked clinical effect remains unclear. Topical glucocorticosteroids are highly effective in diseases characterized by eosinophil-dominated inflammation (allergic rhinitis, nasal polyposis), but not in diseases characterized by neutrophil-dominated inflammation (common cold, infectious rhinosinusitis). Experience for 30 years and a long series of controlled studies have shown that the treatment is highly effective and that the side effects are few and benign. Intranasal glucocorticosteroids can therefore be considered as first-line treatment for allergic and non-allergic, non-infectious rhinitis and nasal polyps.

Second-Generation Antihistamines

Antihistamines are useful medications for the treatment of a variety of allergic disorders. Second-generation antihistamines avidly and selectively bind to peripheral histamine H1 receptors and, consequently, provide gratifying relief of histamine-mediated symptoms in a majority of atopic patients. This tight receptor specificity additionally leads to few effects on other neuronal or hormonal systems, with the result that adverse effects associated with these medications, with the exception of noticeable sedation in about 10% of cetirizine-treated patients, resemble those of placebo overall. Similarly, serious adverse drug reactions and interactions are uncommon with these medicines. Therapeutic interchange to one of the available second-generation antihistamines is a reasonable approach to limiting an institutional formulary, and adoption of such a policy has proven capable of creating substantial cost savings. Differences in overall efficacy and safety between available second-generation antihistamines, when administered in equivalent dosages, are not large. However, among the antihistamines presently available, fexofenadine may offer the best overall balance of effectiveness and safety, and this agent is an appropriate selection for initial or switch therapy for most patients with mild or moderate allergic symptoms. Cetirizine is the most potent antihistamine available and has been subjected to more clinical study than any other. This agent is appropriate for patients proven unresponsive to other antihistamines and for those with the most severe symptoms who might benefit from antihistamine treatment of the highest potency that can be dose-titrated up to maximal intensity.