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Concerns About Intranasal Corticosteroids for Over-the-Counter Use: Position Statement of the Joint Task Force for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
Bielory L, Blaiss M, Fineman SM, et al; Joint Task Force of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2006;96:514-525
Summary
This Joint Task Force was charged with forming a position paper on the advisability of allowing intranasal corticosteroids to be sold over the counter. The Task Force was primarily concerned with safety in 5 areas: effects on growth, ocular effects, effects on bone, effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and local adverse effects.
After a thorough review of the data, the Task Force recommended that intranasal corticosteroids should be prescription-only, used under the direct supervision of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider, and not be allowed to be sold over the counter. This finding was based on the recognition that corticosteroids have the potential to cause side effects in all 5 areas investigated. Furthermore, the Task Force noted that these adverse effects may have an insidious onset and may therefore not be obvious for many years. They also pointed out the potential for overuse as well as the fact that they may have additive corticosteroid side effects when used with other corticosteroid products.
Viewpoint
This distinguished group of clinicians reviewed the evidence and issued a clear and well-thought-out position paper in regard to the use of intranasal corticosteroids.
Abstract
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