Flunisolide
Flunisolide
Chemical compound
Flunisolide (marketed as AeroBid among others) is a corticosteroid often prescribed as treatment for allergic rhinitis.[1] Intranasal corticosteroids are the most effective medication for controlling symptoms.[2]
The principal mechanism of action of flunisolide is to activate glucocorticoid receptors, meaning it has an anti-inflammatory action. The effects of topical corticosteroids is not immediate and requires regular use and at least a few days to start experiencing noticeable symptom relief. As-needed use has been shown to be not as effective as regular recommended use.[2] Flunisolide should not be used in the presence of nasal infection. It should not be continued if there is no relief of symptoms after regular use over two to three weeks.[3]
It was patented in 1958 and approved for medical use in 1978.[4] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[5]