Minor ailments

Allergic rhinitis

Clinical basis & sources

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Allowable drugs under Schedule 4 (15)

Drugs an Ontario pharmacist may prescribe for Allergic rhinitis under O. Reg. 256/24, Schedule 4. Choice still depends on the assessment, contraindications, allergies, and product availability — this is the eligible list, not a recommendation.

  • Azelastine
  • Beclomethasone
  • Bilastine
  • Budesonide
  • Cetirizine
  • Ciclesonide
  • Cyproheptadine
  • Desloratadine
  • Fexofenadine
  • Fluticasone
  • Loratadine
  • Mometasone
  • Olopatadine
  • Rupatadine
  • Triamcinolone

Symptoms this assessment screens

  • Nasal congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy nose
  • Watery, itchy, or red eyes
  • Seasonal, environmental, pet, dust, or trigger pattern
  • Sleep, school, work, or daily activity affected

Red flags — any positive means refer

  • Patient is under 2 years old
  • Diagnosis is uncertain or symptoms do not fit allergic rhinitis
  • Fever, severe facial pain, worsening illness, or suspected infection
  • Eye pain, light sensitivity, vision change, or marked eye redness
  • Shortness of breath, wheeze, or uncontrolled asthma symptoms
  • Appropriate initial treatment failed or symptoms keep recurring
  • Pregnancy, lactation, frailty, significant comorbidity, or complex drug interactions
  • A specific allergen must be identified to guide treatment

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