Intranasal corticosteroid and antihistamine combinations in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: the role of the novel formulation olopatadine/mometasone furoate.

INTRODUCTION: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common disease with an important impact on the quality of life and very high management costs. In many patients, the poor control of rhinitis symptoms often requires the use of different drugs, and polytherapy tends to reduce therapeutic adherence. According to the latest version of ARIA guidelines, the currently recommended drugs for the treatment of moderate to severe AR are second-generation anti-histamines, intranasal corticosteroids, and their combination, even in a single nasal spray device. A single medication with a rapid onset of action, acting on breakthrough symptoms too, would be advantageous, also in terms of patient compliance.

AREAS COVERED: GSP301 (olopatadine 600 mcg-mometasone furoate 25 mcg) is a novel intranasal formulation, combining the second-generation antihistamine olopatadine hydrochloride with mometasone furoate. Here, we review the evidence for GSP301, especially concerning the efficacy and safety profile of this intranasal combination in the treatment of AR.

EXPERT OPINION: The evidence provided in the current review clearly supports the use of GSP301 as a novel INCS/INAH with a well-documented efficacy and safety profile in terms of rapid symptom relief and good tolerability.