What is the primary use of intranasal ipratropium in allergic rhinitis?

Intranasal ipratropium is primarily used to cause nasal dryness, which effectively helps manage the symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis, particularly in patients who experience a significant amount of rhinorrhea (runny nose). By inhibiting the parasympathetic nervous system, ipratropium reduces the secretion of mucus from the nasal mucosa, leading to decreased fluid production and a drying effect. This is beneficial for patients who are primarily troubled by excessive nasal discharge.

While patients with allergic rhinitis often seek relief for congestion, sneezing, and post-nasal drip, these symptoms are not primarily targeted by intranasal ipratropium. Other medication classes, such as antihistamines and decongestants, are more appropriate for addressing nasal congestion and sneezing. Therefore, the specific mechanism of action of ipratropium aligns with alleviating the symptom of excessive mucus production rather than the broader symptom relief sought in allergic rhinitis treatment.