The press office of Sechenov Medical University reported that university scientists have developed a nasal spray to treat chronic nasal congestion caused by the long-term use of decongestants.
According to the office, the spray's unique feature is a special ingredient that helps the medication adhere to the nasal mucosa, thus prolonging its effectiveness. This innovation is expected to help people suffering from chronic nasal congestion. The technology has already undergone animal testing and is preparing to move to the next stages of development.
Dr. Ksenia Yermeeva, Associate Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology at the University, says: “Drug-induced rhinitis is a common problem, affecting between 6.7% and 8.5% of the population, and is often caused by the uncontrolled use of nasal drops and sprays. When these preparations are used for more than ten days, characteristic changes of drug-induced rhinitis begin to appear in the mucous membrane.”
She adds: "The person finds themselves in a vicious cycle, as they have to reuse the medication in order to be able to breathe normally. But as soon as its effect wears off, the congestion returns with even greater force. This is known as the rebound effect."
Those most susceptible to this condition include patients with recurrent acute respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, deviated septum, and other ear, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders. The condition can also develop in anyone who misuses vasoconstrictor medications for longer than the recommended duration, which is typically five to seven days.
Dr. Jana Kozlova, Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology at the Nilopin Institute of Pharmacy, says: "Traditional nasal solutions have a major drawback, as they are quickly eliminated due to the natural self-cleaning mechanism of the mucous membranes. Our innovation, however, transforms from a liquid to a gel upon entering the nasal cavity, allowing it to remain in the absorption position for a longer period, thus providing a long-lasting effect."
Dr. Yelena Smolyarchuk adds that the spray also features a special composition of ingredients that target the main causes of drug-induced rhinitis and help prevent dryness of the mucous membranes
She says: "We have not only created a new formula, but we have also developed a technical procedure that is ready and widely applicable, and we are already seeing great interest in it from the specialized medical community."
The innovation is currently undergoing preclinical trials, and initial laboratory tests on mice and rabbits have confirmed the drug's safety and efficacy. After the completion of all necessary studies, the spray may become available for use by ENT specialists and allergists/immunologists to treat intractable cases of rhinitis and other chronic inflammatory diseases of the nasal cavity and sinuses.
