A step approach to the clinical management of allergic rhinitis: prescription and over-the-counter therapeutic reference summary.

Allergic rhinitis is a debilitating condition. Successful clinical management requires patient education, allergen avoidance, and individualized pharmacotherapy. Immunotherapy may also be valuable for specific patients. With recent changes in the prescription of pharmacotherapies for allergic rhinitis symptoms, physicians or pharmacists may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) therapies. In an effort to develop a comprehensive therapeutic reference guide and a step approach to the clinical management of allergic rhinitis, a panel concluded the use of OTC agents, as either self-directed or parent-directed treatment, based on self-initiative or consultation with health care providers, may result in health care cost savings for both patient and health care provider, as well as reduced risks of overmedication and drug interaction with prescription medications for the patient.