Comparison of Effect of Levocetirizine or Montelukast Alone and in Combination on Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

Objective. To determine the effect of levocetirizine, montelukast and the combination of both the drugs on symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Methods. Seventy-five patients with allergic rhinitis were randomly studied prospectively for a period of two weeks divided into three groups receiving either levocetrizine or montelukast or combination of both. The outcomes were measured by a visual analogue score for nasal and eye symptom during day-time and night-time. Results. All the three regimens were equally effective in improving the day-time symptoms, like sneezing and rhinorrhea. There was also no difference in the control of night-time and eye symptoms among the regimens. Conclusions. Montelukast, levocetirizine and their combination is equally effective in controlling symptoms, of allergic rhinitis. Thus, use of montelukast alone would be cost-effective and do avoid adverse effects of levocetirizine in combination therapy