An overlooked Rx for nasal obstruction relief

In the article, “Improving your approach to nasal obstruction” (J Fam Pract. 2016;65:889-893,898-899), I noticed that ipratropium nasal spray was not mentioned in Table 2, which listed commonly used medications for nasal obstruction.

We frequently recommend iprat­ropium nasal spray in our office, as it is an effective, non-addictive nasal decongestant. It is available in 2 strengths, .03% and .06%, and we usually prescribe 2 sprays in each nostril, 2 to 3 times a day, as needed.

We have found this to be very effective for short-term use. Its value, of course, is that it acts rapidly and there is no limit on how long it may be used.

Walter D. Leventhal, MD
Summerville, SC