New medication advances treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps

Chronic rhinosinusitis is a long-lasting medical condition, usually caused by infection or exposure to irritants, such as allergies, that affects one in seven American adults. Symptoms include nasal obstruction, nasal congestion, nasal drainage, loss of smell and taste, and facial pain and pressure. Some people with chronic rhinosinusitis also develop additional symptoms, such as asthma and nasal polyps, that are exacerbated by underlying allergies. A nasal polyp is a noncancerous tumor that grows from the lining of the nose or sinuses and affects the drainage system of the sinuses. While chronic rhinosinusitis is not a life-threatening condition, the chronic nature and progression of the disease can have a significant impact on quality of life, affecting work, productivity, and sleep, and leading to social and emotional consequences, such as depression and anxiety. Recently, a new medication has been approved in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. What is the new medication and how would it be used? Current treatment includes a combination of therapies that target symptoms. These include medical and surgical treatments, such as antibiotics, short-term oral corticosteroids, steroid nasal sprays, sinus irrigation, and endoscopic sinus surgery. However, many people continue to experience symptoms despite treatment. Earlier this year, the FDA approved dupilumab (Dupixent) to treat chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps that is not adequately controlled w...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Allergies Cold and Flu Drugs and Supplements Ear, nose, and throat Health Source Type: blogs