The Efficacy of Azelastine in the Prophylaxis of Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Abstract

Azelastine is a potent and selective second-generation histamine H₁ receptor antagonist. It also effectively down regulates expression of the intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) receptor, which plays an important role in human rhinovirus, Coxsackie type A viruses, adenovirus type 5, human parainfluenza virus type 2 and 3, and respiratory syncytial virus mucosal attachment as well as mobilization of immune effector cells. Therapies aimed at reducing ICAM-1 expression should reduce episodes of viral airway infection. This study shows that azelastine prophylaxis may reduce the occurrence of Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs), otitis media, sinusitis, and pharyngitis in otherwise healthy children.