What are the first-line treatment options for adults with allergic rhinitis in primary care?

First-line treatment options for adults with allergic rhinitis in primary care include intranasal corticosteroids and antihistamines (intranasal or non-sedating oral antihistamines), used either alone or in combination ¹.

Intranasal corticosteroids are considered the most effective treatment for allergic rhinitis ¹.

Options include intranasal mometasone furoate, fluticasone furoate, or fluticasone propionate, which have minimal systemic absorption ¹.

For mild, intermittent, or both types of allergic rhinitis, antihistamines (intranasal or oral non-sedating) are suggested, especially in children, while adults may be offered any first-line treatment ¹.

In cases of moderate to severe or persistent allergic rhinitis, an intranasal corticosteroid or the combination of an intranasal corticosteroid with an intranasal antihistamine is recommended ¹.

Patients should be advised to start treatment two weeks before known allergen exposure, such as pollen seasons, and to continue until the exposure ends or symptoms resolve ¹.