Abstract
The efficacy and safety of budesonide nasal powder (Rhinocort Turbuhaler®) in seasonal allergic rhinitis when given only at the onset of symptoms during the pollen season or when also given before the pollen season, were compared. The study was carried out in 364 patients from 14 centres in Italy as a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo- controlled comparison of five alternative treatment regimens given for 4 weeks during the pre-pollen and early pollen season (PPS) and for 6 weeks during the pollen season (PS). It was concluded that either 200μg or 400μg of budesonide given once daily PPS provides significant control of symptoms experienced during PPS. The 400μg dose, however, also provides additional prophylactic protection against symptoms during early PS. When the pollen season is established, the dose of budesonide may be reduced to 200μg.
