Antihistamines treatment for allergic rhinitis: different routes, different mechanisms?

Abstract

Antihistamines have been used in the treatment of rhinitis since ancient times. Antihistamines can be used via oral or topical route for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, as well as nonallergic forms of rhinitis. The topical formulation of medications is the preferred treatment route used for many diseases. This article will investigate the differences in the route of antihistamines in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. A review of the literature was performed to investigate the differences between the use of oral and topical antihistamines in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Antihistamines inhibit the mediators of inflammation that worsen the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Intranasal and oral antihistamines are important options in the therapy of allergic rhinitis, and topical use may result in unexpected benefits to patients with allergic rhinitis.