Evaluation of patients' preferences for triamcinolone acetonide aqueous, fluticasone propionate, and mometasone furoate nasal sprays in patients with allergic rhinitis.

OBJECTIVE

To compare product attributes, preferences, and expected compliance associated with triamcinolone acetonide aqueous (TAA-AQ), fluticasone propionate (FP), and mometasone furoate (MF) nasal sprays in patients with allergic rhinitis.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Data from 2 randomized, double-blind crossover studies with identical design were pooled (N = 215). Patients completed a 14-item sensory attributes questionnaire immediately after each product, and stated their preference and expected compliance with a prescription after receiving all products.

RESULTS

Compared with FP and MF, TAA-AQ was associated with significantly less odor and greater liking of odor ( P < 0.001); and less taste, less dryness of nose/throat, less aftertaste, and greater overall liking ( P < 0.05). Significantly more patients preferred most a prescription of TAA-AQ (50.0%) versus FP (25.0%; P < 0.001) and MF (25.0%; P < 0.001), and would "definitely comply" with TAA-AQ (62.5%) versus FP (49.0%; P < 0.01) and MF (51.0%; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

TAA-AQ was associated with significantly more positive sensory attributes, higher preference, and better expected compliance than FP and MF.

SIGNIFICANCE

Patients' preferences for the sensory attributes of an intranasal corticosteroid may affect adherence to treatment.