Clinical review of once-daily beclomethasone dipropionate for seasonal allergic rhinitis

A new double-strength (84 mu g/spray) formulation of beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP-ds) as an aqueous suspension has been introduced to control symptoms of allergic rhinitis with once-daily intranasal dosing. This paper reviews the results of three clinical reports which show that BDP-ds given once a day is more effective than placebo and as effective as regular-strength beclomethasone dipropionate given twice daily in reducing the nasal symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Symptom improvement was seen within 2 days of treatment initiation and was maintained for the subsequent 4 weeks. BDP-ds was found to be as safe and well tolerated as placebo. Adverse effects, which were generally mild, included headache, nasal burning/irritation, epistaxis, coughing, and pharyngitis. BDP-ds is safe for children as young as 6 years of age, and its once-daily dosing schedule may improve patient compliance.