Nasal polyps are grape-like growths in the nasal cavity that can reduce airflow in the nasal passages, leading to congestion. If unresolved, surgery may be needed to remove the nasal polyps and restore airflow in the nasal passages.
The 16 week study included 299 patients which were randomly divided into two groups, one received Nasonex (mometasone furoate monohydrate) 200mcg once a day, the other received placebo. Results showed 74.3% of patients receiving Nasonex experienced improved nasal congestion compared to 46.8% of the placebo group. Sense of smell also improved in the Nasonex group and patients recorded significant improvements for rhinitis and rhinorrhoea.
An assessment of quality of life variables showed that the proportion of patients with improvement was significantly higher among subjects taking Nasonex in terms of nose breathing, interference with daily activities and sleeping disturbances. No serious treatment-related adverse events were observed. The most common treatment-related adverse events were upper respiratory infection, epistaxis and headache.
“While, the recommended dose for nasal polyps is two sprays of Nasonex in each nostril twice daily, this new research provides further support for the efficacy of a once-daily regimen,” said Robert Spiegel, chief medical officer and senior vice president, Schering-Plough.
Nasonex was approved for use in the US and 13 European countries during 2004 for the treatment of nasal polyps in patients 18 years of age and older.