Studies designed to determine the efficacy of alpha-adrenergic agents and antihistamines in the prevention and treatment of otitis media are reviewed. Although some studies demonstrate a pharmacologic rationale for use of decongestants, results of clinical trials fail to demonstrate conclusively that decongestant medication is effective as primary or adjunctive therapy for otitis media. The clinician is advised to await results of future studies before accepting the notion that the systemic administration of sympathomimetic agents and antihistamines is effective in the treatment of otitis media.
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