Mometasone furoate nasal spray in seasonal allergic rhinitis - Effective in relieving ocular symptoms

Background: Mometasone furoate nasal spray (MFNS) is effective for preventing and treating nasal symptoms in seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). Its effects on ocular symptoms have not been investigated. This retrospective analysis examined the effects of MFNS on ocular symptoms in subjects with SAR. Methods/Data base: Ocular symptom data were pooled and analyzed from four randomized, double-blind studies comparing MFNS 200 mcg once daily (n = 494) with placebo (n = 497). Subject-reported ocular itching, redness, and tearing were recorded at baseline and twice daily throughout treatment on a scale of 0 (none) to 3 (severe). Total ocular symptom score (TOSS) was defined as the combined 2-week average symptom scores. Results: MFNS produced a statistically greater reduction in TOSS from baseline as compared to placebo (-1.33 vs. -0.94, p < 0.05). Likewise, mean 2-week reductions in individual symptoms were significantly improved with MFNS (p < 0.05 for each symptom). In subjects with TOSS >= 4 at baseline, MFNS recipients (n = 298) reported a significantly greater reduction in TOSS as compared to placebo recipients (n = 304; -1.97 vs. -1.51, p < 0.05), with statistically significant benefits also observed in individual ocular symptoms (p < 0.05 for each symptom). Conclusions: MFNS has a beneficial effect on ocular symptoms, in addition to its established effects on nasal symptoms, in subjects with SAR.