Allergic Rhinitis: Beyond Simple Antihistamines
Commonly known as hay fever, Allergic Rhinitis is managed in 2026 as a systemic airway disease rather than just a "runny nose."
The 2026 Treatment Ladder
Intranasal Corticosteroids (INCS): The most effective monotherapy for reducing nasal inflammation. Modern sprays are "scent-free" and use anhydrous (dry) formulas to prevent throat drip.
Second-Generation Antihistamines: Fexofenadine and Loratadine remain the non-sedating standards. In 2026, Fixed-Dose Combinations (FDCs)—where an antihistamine and a steroid are in one spray—are the preferred first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe cases.
Biologics and Immunotherapy: For patients who don't respond to sprays, sublingual (under-the-tongue) tablets are used to desensitize the immune system over 3–5 years.
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