Can nasal allergy medications be taken long-term?

Nasal congestion medications should not be taken for prolonged periods. These medications, clinically, mostly refer to nasal sprays, including Mometasone Furoate Nasal Spray, Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray, and Budesonide Nasal Spray. None of these medications are recommended for long-term use, and patients should follow the guidance of medical professionals.

1. Mometasone Furoate Nasal Spray

Mometasone Furoate Nasal Spray is a commonly used medication in otolaryngology, belonging to the corticosteroid category. Its main ingredient is mometasone furoate, which is effective in treating allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinitis, sinusitis, and related conditions. It exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. However, as a hormone-based medication, long-term use may lead to nasal mucosa dryness, scabbing, and in some cases, throat dryness and hoarseness.

2. Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray

Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray is another common otolaryngological medication, a triple formulation containing fluticasone propionate, sodium chloride, and chlorpheniramine maleate. It is indicated for seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, hay fever, and other allergic conditions. It can also be used when other treatments are ineffective. However, it carries potential side effects such as throat dryness and occasional hoarseness after prolonged use, hence not recommended for long-term administration.

3. Budesonide Nasal Spray

Budesonide Nasal Spray, a commonly prescribed otolaryngological medication, belongs to the glucocorticoid class. It exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects, useful in treating non-glucocorticoid-dependent or dependent bronchial asthma and asthmatic chronic bronchitis. Nevertheless, it too has side effects, including throat dryness and possible hoarseness after extended use, making long-term administration unadvisable.

4. Others

For patients with severe symptoms of allergic rhinitis, short-term use of Tongqiao Biyan Pian (a traditional Chinese medicine for nasal congestion) and Loratadine Tablets, as prescribed by a doctor, can help alleviate symptoms. Patients should avoid self-medication and seek professional diagnosis and treatment from otolaryngologists.