Pharmacology of upper respiratory allergy

Patients with upper respiratory allergy may benefit from the use of many pharmacologic products. Using the simplest form of therapy that will relieve the problem is usually both clinically efficacious and cost efficient. Understanding the indications, benefits, and potential adverse effects of each group of drugs, particularly the classic and new antihistamines, decongestants, intranasal and systemic corticosteroids, and mast cell stabilizers (such as cromolyn) will provide direction for the best total patient care.