Intranasal Steroid Use and Satisfaction in Allergic Rhinitis: A Cross-Sectional Study from an Asian Perspective

BACKGROUND Intranasal steroid (INS) is the most effective medication class for controlling allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms; however, its effectiveness is limited by patient compliance. Previous studies have explored INS use, compliance, satisfaction, and experience. There is, however, no Asian study on these factors in entirety. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the rate of compliance to usage of INS and explore the reasons for noncompliance in our local population. METHODS We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study on 65 AR patients in a tertiary hospital. Recruited patients were administered a questionnaire to collect data about symptoms, INS use, and concerns they may have. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. RESULTS The overall compliance rate to INS was 63.1%. Noncompliance was associated with increased frequency of dosing (p = 0.050), presence of sensory attributes (p = 0.041), and forgetfulness (p = 0.049). The top 3 most frequent sensory attributes experienced by patients include throat rundown (29.2%), aftertaste (21.5%), and immediate taste (20.0%). There was a significant difference between brands of INS with regard to sensory attributes experienced (p = 0.003) but no side effects (p = 0.070). CONCLUSIONS Identifying risk factors for noncompliance to INS can help health-care providers address difficulties faced by patients and hence increase compliance, allowing better control of AR symptoms.