The ‘second generation’ allergy drug desloratadine (brand name Clarinex) significantly reduces both the runny nose and congestion of seasonal and persistent allergic rhinitis, a study shows.

Allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever, is a collection of symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, red itchy and watery eyes, nasal congestion) caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment such as pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mold. It can be problem throughout the year (persistent) or only during certain months (seasonal), depending on the individual and the allergic trigger.

While second generation allergy drugs are non-sedating -- a big problem with first generation antihistamines -- they are generally thought to be less effective in reducing nasal congestion than nasal sprays and decongestants.

In the current study, French and Swedish researchers randomly assigned 584 people with allergic rhinitis to desloratadine (5 milligrams daily) or inactive placebo. Over the 28-day trial, the allergy sufferers kept symptom diaries and answered quality-of-life questions weekly. Unlike many previous studies, the researchers included nasal congestion as a measured symptom.

According to a report in the journal Allergy, desloratadine was significantly better than placebo in reducing both the runny nose and congestion of seasonal and persistent allergic rhinitis.

Desloratadine led to significant symptom relief by the end of day three in both seasonal and persistent allergy sufferers, the study team found. The full extent of symptom relief was reached after two weeks on the drug.

At various times during the trial and at its conclusion, the group taking desloratadine felt better and slept better compared to the placebo group, the researchers report.

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