The effect of intra‐nasal beclomethasone dipropionate on adrenal function

Summary Beclomethasone dipropionate has recently been shown to be effective in controlling the nasal symptoms of hay fever at doses similar to those required to control bronchial asthma. Experiments in human volunteer subjects are described demonstrating the effect of this steroid by intra‐nasal, and combined intra‐nasal and inhaled administration on the Hypothulamo‐Pituitary‐Adrenal axis (HPA axis). From the evidence obtained suppression of the HPA axis is less likely following intra‐nasal administration, than after the inhaled or oral routes. It may be concluded that suppression of the HPA axis is unlikely unless concurrent doses in excess of I mg a day by both routes are used.