From the Guidelines
Albuterol is not recommended as a treatment for allergic laryngitis, as it does not address the underlying inflammatory cause of the condition. Allergic laryngitis is primarily an inflammatory condition of the larynx (voice box) caused by an allergic reaction, and it's better treated with medications that target the underlying allergic response, such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or oral corticosteroids 1. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, systemic steroids have been reported to provide quick relief from allergic laryngitis in limited cases, particularly in performers who are acutely dependent on their voice 1.
Treatment Options
- Antihistamines like cetirizine (10mg daily) or loratadine (10mg daily) can help alleviate symptoms of allergic laryngitis.
- Nasal corticosteroids such as fluticasone (1-2 sprays per nostril daily) can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and relieve symptoms.
- Oral corticosteroids like prednisone (typically a short course of 20-40mg daily for 5-7 days) can provide quick relief from allergic laryngitis in selected patient populations 1.
- Voice rest, staying well-hydrated, avoiding irritants like smoke or alcohol, and using a humidifier can also help manage symptoms while the medications address the underlying allergic reaction.
Rationale for Not Using Albuterol
Albuterol is a bronchodilator that works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it useful for conditions like asthma where airway constriction is the primary issue 1. However, allergic laryngitis is primarily an inflammatory condition, and albuterol does not address this underlying cause. In fact, the American College of Chest Physicians recommends against using albuterol in patients with acute or chronic cough not due to asthma, as it has no benefit in these cases 1.
From the Research
Allergic Laryngitis and Albuterol (Salbutamol)
- There are no direct research papers provided to assist in answering whether Albuterol (Salbutamol) helps allergic laryngitis.
- The studies provided focus on the use of Albuterol in asthma and its effects on airway smooth muscle, as well as its use in treating acute asthma exacerbations 2, 3.
- Other studies discuss allergen immunotherapy for local respiratory allergy 4 and the effect of regular inhaled Albuterol on allergen-induced late responses and sputum eosinophils in asthmatic subjects 5.
- Additionally, a study on allergic rhinitis discusses effective treatment according to the latest recommendations, including pharmacological treatment options such as oral, intranasal, or ocular antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, or combined intranasal antihistamines and corticosteroids 6.
- However, none of these studies specifically address the use of Albuterol in treating allergic laryngitis, making it difficult to determine its effectiveness for this condition 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.