In contrast with freely available over-the-counter nasal sprays, cortisone sprays available only on prescription have a strong anti-inflammatory effect on the nasal mucous membranes and act directly on the inflammation causing the symptoms.

They act purely locally inside the nose and are well tolerated. Cortisone components contained in modern preparations are hardly detectable in the blood and have no systemic effect.

In patients suffering all year round from perennial allergies (dust mites, house dust), from adenoids or chronic rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose and the paranasal sinuses), long-term use over months or even years has shown very good and safe results. Locally applied corticoid sprays do not lead to dependency or cause damage to the mucous membranes. On the contrary, they promote the body's natural restoration of the mucous membranes following the strains and damage caused by the inflammation. Furthermore, there is no habituation effect; the active solution retains its strong anti-inflammatory effect throughout the entire treatment period.

The application of the spray is pleasant and simple. Generally, a single daily dose is sufficient, applied "cross-wise" (see illustration). The latest sprays are odourless and contain glycerine which has an additional soothing effect on the nasal mucous membranes. The active ingredient in these sprays is in form of a gel (thixotropic). This ensures improved adhesion to the mucous membranes, preventing the active ingredient from draining off unused with an unpleasant sensation and taste, but retaining it in the nose to act locally.