Anticholinergic drugs in nonallergic rhinitis.
BACKGROUND
The parasympathetic nervous system contributes to the pathophysiology of multiple forms of allergic and nonallergic rhinitis. Stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system leads to glandular activation, which produces watery secretions. In excess, these secretions discharge from the anterior Nares and produce the symptom of watery anterior rhinorrhea.


METHODS
Review of literature.


RESULTS
Treatment with topical, intranasal anticholinergic drugs inhibits activation of the nasal mucosal glands and is effective in reducing the watery secretions associated with parasympathetic stimulation of the glands with little, if any, effect on the symptoms of congestion and sneezing. In general, these drugs have no systemic adverse effects, but can cause crusting and local irritation.


CONCLUSIONS
Anticholinergic drugs are useful for the treatment of anterior rhinorrhea associated with allergic and nonallergic rhinitis.
Section of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. rnacleri@surgery.bsd.uchicago.edu.
Robert
R
Naclerio